Senior Picture Tips

Whether or not you’re a senior in high school about to get your senior pictures taken, I have some tips for you on looking your best and being prepared when you go out on a photo shoot so you can look back on your photos later and not cringe!

Number One: Pick out outfits you know you like and look good on you and fit well. I remember getting a new dress for my senior pictures, and later realized the neckline didn’t suit me very well- at least in the photos. The high neck gave my face a rounder appearance, which I didn’t think was very flattering. Choose colors that you know look right on you and necklines that suit you and outfits that you’re sure you like. Try the outfits on before picture day and maybe even have someone snap a few pics of you in them to make sure you like how they look on camera. Don’t buy a whole bunch of new clothes that look good on the rack and then don them a half hour before your shoot. Be sure you like them on yourself!!

Number Two: Plan hair and makeup before the shoot, according to your outfits. Don’t try a new style day of! If you don’t usually have your hair up, and you put it up in a fancy ‘do right before the shoot, you may look back at pictures at graduation and realize that style didn’t suit your face shape at all. Same with the makeup. Do something you know you like and looks good with the outfits. Give yourself plenty of time for hair and makeup, and keep in mind that the photos are going to be showcasing the details! Your photographer isn’t a magician, you know, so don’t assume they’ll be able to edit anything and everything out. If you’ve never worn red lipstick, for example, don’t put it on in the car on the way to the shoot; try it at least the day before with the rest of your makeup how you want it and ask your friends or family how it looks on you. And don’t try to make your makeup darker because you think it will show up better on camera! Think about when you’ve felt looking your best, and try to recreate the look!

Number Three: Be prepared for the day of. Make sure all your clothes are clean and wrinkle-free, you know where they are, you know what shoes and accessories you’re going to wear with which outfits, your nails are in good shape, you get good sleep the night before, and you have everything you need ready to go the next day- including a mirror!

Number Four: Bring the props you want. You can incorporate your hobbies and accomplishments into your shoot. If you play a sport, you might want to bring the ball or shoes from that sport. If you love to read, take along one of your favorite books. If you play an instrument, bring it along if you can. Your photographer may ask you what you want to include in your shoot beforehand, so be prepared!

Number Five: Don’t be afraid to speak up! During the shoot, be sure to let the photographer know what you want included in the shoot. If you have ideas for poses or shots, feel free to let him or her know! These are your senior pictures. Have fun with it!

Number Six: Keep in mind what facial expressions and angles you like best. Of course, you’re not the one taking the photos, but you probably know what kinds of pictures of yourself look best better than the photographer does. Maybe you don’t like the ones where you’re staring off into the distance, or over-the-shoulder shots are unflattering to you. It’s ok to grab a few shots of poses and expressions you’re not as fond of, so be cooperative with the photographer who knows what they’re doing, but it’s ok to keep in mind your preferences.

Number Seven: Be cooperative. Really, the photographer should know what they’re doing, and there should be plenty of shots to choose from when deciding what will be printed. If the photographer wants you sitting on a rocky bank or standing in a puddle or whatever the case may be, try to trust them! Don’t make their job difficult- this is their creative outlet and is probably something fun for them! So when they say to smile, do it! (-:

Number Eight: Have good posture! Make sure you’re standing and sitting up straight in those photos! You won’t want to send graduation party invites with a hunched back on the front. Shoulders back, stand up tall, but don’t lift your chin too high. (-;

Alright, guys, this is what I have for you today. If you have any more ideas, feel free to share them in a comment! Have fun!!