Preparation Tips for Senior Girls Photo Sessions

Mindset

• Be yourself and relax. You already know that this is going to be a fun and you’re going to have a blast doing it. That’s it…  Posing is the easy part no pressure on you.

Arrival

• Arrive early or on time to your appointment so you don’t create any undue stress.

Style

• You’re unique and beautiful, be yourself in how you dress.

• Be fashionable. Wear clothing that’s stylish and put a lot of thought into your choices. This is a unique opportunity and you want to look amazing!

Clothing

• We give you unlimited wardrobe changes, so bring a lot of options. The more outfits we have to choose from, the better. This will give us flexibility in matching your clothing to backgrounds and surroundings.

• Group your outfits together on hangers. Make sure items are ironed and ready to go.

• Make sure you’re comfortable in your clothing and that it flatters you. This will ensure that you like how you look when viewing your images.

• If you’re self-conscious about your arms, avoid sleeveless or cap-sleeve shirts and tank tops, as they tend to make arms look fuller.

• Avoid stripes and plaid. Solid colors photograph much better than busy patterns.

• Bring a variety of colors and mix the level of styles. Some should be dressy, some dressy-casual, and some casual.

• If you’re comfortable in dresses, bring them! They photograph really well and offer a nice variety from your other casual clothing choices. We can mix dressy and casual dresses for some great looks.

Shoes

• Wear heels! Whether pumps or boots, dressy or casual, plain or sassy, heels really make you stand out and look glamorous. Flats can also work well if you mix them with the right outfit.

• Bare feet work well to.

• Flip-flops are a No-no. Comfy yes, photograph well, no.

Hair

• Practice your hair days or even weeks before your shoot. You want to make sure this is the look you want for your shoot. Bring your best friend with you for your session and he or she can help. Hair style is ultimately your responsibility. Any hair changes during the session should be quick and simple so you have as much camera time as possible.

• Bring hair spray, clips, pins, and whatever else is needed to keep your hair out of your eyes if it’s windy. Also bring a brush and mirror for quick hair touch-ups.

• Do not make drastic changes to your hairstyle right before your photo session. This could add unneeded stress to your life.

Makeup

• Makeup that is well done is one of the best preparations you can make for your session. It will even out skin tones and help give your photos that extra pop for a model-like look. Even if you don’t normally wear makeup or wear very little, take the time to do it well and your photos will look their best.

• Makeup should only be slightly heavier than normal. Mascara should be clean and not clumpy. Avoid makeup with an SPF because it tends to create a shine. Summer shine can be controlled by using translucent powder that knocks out shine without adding additional color.

Complexion

• Makeup helps a lot here, but we will retouch your images so please don’t concern yourself about minor breakouts. You’re covered. If your acne is more severe, you’re still okay. We’ll going to help you out with some extra retouching.

Jewelry

• Keep it simple. Big, shiny jewelry can distract from you. If you have different jewelry for different outfits, you might put each set of jewelry in a plastic zip-lock and hang it on the hanger with that outfit.
• The proper jewelry can really complement your outfit. It’s nice to have a variety to choose from and it doesn’t hurt to bring numerous options with you.

Props

• They’re great! Bring props that help show who you are. Some popular choices are:
  
  

                            Sports uniforms
                            Musical instruments
                            Activity related items - dance, art, school clubs, etc.
                            Sports equipment - soccer ball, basketball, softball bat, etc.

Tanning

• Tan lines are a distraction and take away from your photos. We suggest using varied swimsuit tops to minimize any existing tan lines. If you choose to tan outside or in a tanning bed, don’t overdo it. We don’t want you looking orange and leathery.

Friends & Parents

• Friends or parents are welcome and often can be a help. However, if they distract you, it may be best to meet them when the session is over. You’re welcome to have a couple of shots with a boyfriend, best friend, sibling, or parent at no extra charge.

Weather

• Overcast and clouds are great because they actually even out the light and make for ideal shooting conditions. Now falling rain is an issue and we will have to reschedule. I will try to contact you first, but please call if  you have any doubts or concerns.

Undergarments

• Please make sure the colors of your undergarment coordinate well with your outfits. If you need a strapless, please bring one to your session. Tucking or moving straps will not always work or give the most pleasing look.  Check ahead of time to ensure that undergarments don’t leave unpleasing lines underneath your clothing.

Finger & Toe Nails

• If you paint your nails, make sure they’re done well before your session. Chipped nail paint will show and distract from you. Avoid bright colors that will distract from you and may not work with all your outfits. Instead, opt for basic or natural tones.

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