Planning for your senior session can be daunting. A lot of times, senior pictures are your first time working with a professional photographer and while you might not feel totally comfortable posing in front of the camera, don’t stress! I promise to make you feel comfortable and confident so that you can truly be yourself. I want to capture beautiful, natural photos that reflect your happiness and give you images that will remind you of your high school days for the rest of your life. Below are a few tips to help you in planning and preparing for your senior session.
When to Schedule
The summer after your Junior year is typically when most seniors schedule their senior sessions, but there is no right time. Keep yearbook deadlines in mind when scheduling your session to make sure you don’t miss out on submitting your photo. I recommend booking your session as early as possible as calendars tend to fill up quickly. Here are some tips on deciding what season is right for you.
Spring (March – May)
Doing your photos in the spring of your junior year gets them done and out of the way with no need to worry about meeting that yearbook deadline. Spring is also when things are starting to come back to live—budding flowers and fresh greenery are a great backdrop for your photos and mild temperatures make being outside more comfortable.
Summer (June – August)
No school means a more flexible schedule to find a date and time for your senior session. The sun sets later, which means more time to get those golden, sun filled photos. Although warmer weather is great, keep in mind that summer can also be very hot and humid which can lead to sweating and red skin. Also, depending on the location you choose, mosquitos are usually around and can be a nuisance even with bug spray.
Fall (September – November)
Fall colors—need I say more? Changing trees and falling leaves make the prefect backdrop for any photos. Cooler fall temperatures make it more comfortable during your session—no need to worry about sweating too much. Keep in mind that popular photo locations can sometimes be busy and crowded with lots of people wanting to have their photos taken with the fall foliage and less daylight makes it harder to schedule sessions after school.
Location
The location of your photo shoot is up to you, but here are some things to think about that will help you pick a location that portrays your personality.
What are your hobbies and interests?
Locations that incorporate your hobbies and interests really show off your personality. What do you like to do? If you like musical theater, an auditorium would be a great spot. If you love to read, take your session to the library. Like hunting or fishing? You might want to find a nearby lake or wooded area.
Do you play any sports?
Sports fields can be the perfect place for your senior session no matter what sport you play.
Is there a location that is meaningful to your family?
Is there a location that you have been going to since you were little? Maybe a park that your parents took you as a kid, or maybe you have access to a special property that others don’t, like your house or a relative’s land.
Read more here about some of the best photo locations in Wisconsin Rapids.
Clothing & Accessories
Your senior photos will last a lifetime so choosing the right outfit is important. When picking your outfit, choose clothes that you feel comfortable in and that represent your personality. I recommend bringing multiple outfits so we can capture a variety of different looks. Make sure to try on your outfits before your session so you know how everything looks/fits. Accessories add interest to your photos and they are a great way to turn one outfit into two by adding or removing items. Don’t be afraid to include jewelry, cardigans/jackets, and hair accessories to complete your look. You might also want to use this opportunity to pamper yourself and get your hair and makeup professionally done!
For more tips on picking the right outfit, read this blog!
What to Bring
Here is a list of some helpful things to bring the day of your senior session.
- Bring your chosen outfits and accessories.
- Comb or brush, a mirror, and makeup for touch-ups.
- A friend or family member to help with outfit changes and makeup touch-ups.
- Any props you would like to include in your photos. (Instruments, sports gear, etc.)
- Pets are always welcome at senior sessions, location permitting, just make sure to bring a friend or family member to hold them while we take the rest of your photos.
Still need to book your senior session? Contact me to book today!
