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SENIOR SESSION PREP GUIDE

Everything you need to know before your session. Still have questions? Send me a message.
Colorful Knitwear Focus

BEFORE YOUR SESSION

What should I wear?

  • Wear clothes that feel like you.

  • Solid colors photograph best.

  • Avoid large logos or busy graphics.

  • Bring options (see below).

  • Iron or steam your clothes if needed.

  • Try everything on before your session!

  • (Girls: test the fit and visibility of undergarments) 

 

How many outfits do I bring?

  • 45-min sessions: 2 outfits (1 change).

  • 75-min sessions: 3 outfits (2 changes).

  • All sessions: plan to bring 2 additional outfits, tops, or layers so we have options. 

 

Where will I change?

  • Studio/Harbor Sessions: You’ll use The Studio's private dressing room.

  • Beach or Lighthouse Sessions:
    Your car will be your changing room. Keep this in mind when choosing outfits, and plan ahead for easy changes (if possible).

Should I get a haircut?

Yes—but not the day before. A haircut about 1–2 weeks before your session is usually ideal.

 

what about hair & makeup?

Most seniors do their own hair and makeup, but some opt to get professional hair and makeup the day of their session. Whatever makes you feel confident and comfortable!

 

My only suggestion: if you’re doing your own or using a professional, please make sure to keep your makeup looking like you

What if I have acne? 

Don’t worry! I can retouch temporary blemishes.

Sandy Beach Closeup

the day of YOUR SESSION

Don’t stress.

You don’t need to know how to pose or be “photogenic.”  The best senior portraits aren’t about perfect outfits or perfect poses—they’re about capturing who you are right now. ​

What to bring:

  • Clothing

  • Shoes (unless you'll be barefoot)

  • Water

  • Hairbrush

  • Makeup for touch-ups

  • Chapstick

  • Hair ties

  • Lint roller

  • Bug spray (outdoor sessions)

 

Can my parents come?

Of course! Parents are always welcome. Many stay for the entire session, while others wander nearby and let us do our thing.

Can I bring a friend?

Sure! Friends can help you laugh and loosen up. Just remember the session is about you, so they’ll be cheering from the sidelines.

How do I pose?

Here's a secret: Almost nobody knows how to pose! I’ll guide you through every moment of the entire session so you can just relax.

Need some inspo? I’ve put together this Pinterest board with ideas. You can tell me which images you like.

 

What if it rains or it's windy?

If the weather is truly bad, we’ll reschedule. Clouds are actually wonderful for photography, so don’t worry if the forecast isn’t sunny. A little wind is usually beautiful, but for extreme wind, we’ll need to adjust locations or reschedule. I’ll keep an eye on the weather and we’ll decide together if we need to make changes.

​​Can I include my dog?

Absolutely! I love including pets. I recommend bringing someone who can take your dog home once we’ve finished those photos.

Can I bring props? 

Yes, if you have something meaningful that you want to include, like an instrument or a football, then bring it!​​

Can we do two locations?

Yes, however we'll need to coordinate this at least one week before the session, as additional locations require adding time to your session (and a small fee). 

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