SENIOR SESSION GUIDE
WHAT TO EXPECT
Thank you for booking your senior session with me! We will have some fun while capturing this very special time in your life. As a senior, you do not need any more stress in your life, so we will make this senior portrait process easy and fun! Once you’ve booked your session, we’ll decide on a time and place based on your hobbies and activities or anything you envision. Perhaps you play a sport or an instrument—we can incorporate that into the shoot. If you love the outdoors and have always imagined having a photo shoot at the lake, then we can make that vision come to life.
CHOOSING OUTFITS
Start thinking of outfit ideas, pulling clothes from your closet, and shopping for any special items. Be sure they are clothes you feel comfortable wearing with simple accessories that fit your personality. Most clients bring between 2 to 3 outfits—usually a mix of casual and dressy looks. I always recommend having at least one outfit that your parent likes too!
DAY OF YOUR SESSION
We will meet at the session location and chat for a bit about special locations and poses you might want. You are welcome to bring any props or sports outfits with you so that we can use them in the best way possible. We will take a walk and stop to take pictures along the way. I will guide you through some guided movements, looking at the camera and away from the camera. You are more than welcome to bring your own ideas to the table!
AFTER YOUR SESSION
About a week or so after your photo session, I will touch base and provide you with an online gallery. If you are more comfortable meeting in person, we can do that, too! You will own these digital images and will have the ability to download them or share them from this gallery. This is your opportunity to choose all of your favorites and decide how you want to display your photos—whether that is an album, prints, or wall portraits. Once you have selected your favorites, you can choose to order straight from your online gallery a la carte. If you have chosen a package, I will get to work designing your album, graduation announcement or wall art. About three weeks (or less!) after your photo session, your custom products will be delivered!
FAQ
How long will my session last?
My portrait sessions usually last about 1 hour. Headshots are up to 30 minutes.
How many locations do we get?
To keep things simplified, I generally like to stick to one location with a lot of variety or two locations that are close in distance. I recommend choosing locations that are in a short walking distance to each other. We want to spend our limited time together taking beautiful pictures and not traveling!
How many outfit changes should I plan for?
Each session allows for two outfits if you want. You certainly don’t have to do two!
When and how do I get my images?
About a week after your session, you’ll receive a gallery of the images from your session to view! From there, you are able to select and order the images and share the gallery with your friends and family. Once the order is placed, you will receive your beautiful prints from my lab to your door in two weeks. (or less!)
What should I wear?
Decide on a palette of 3-4 colors to base your outfit on (including both pants and dresses). If you need ideas, my Pinterest board or this post on 7 Tips on What to Wear to a Photo Session might give you some inspiration.
Should I have my hair and makeup professionally done?
While it is not required, (we want you to look like you!) you can certainly pamper yourself by getting your hair styled and makeup done before the session. Makeup should be natural. Men should plan to get a haircut the week before the session.
What should I expect at my session?
At least two weeks before your session, you’ll receive a questionnaire to complete. This will help me not only get to know you better but create a customized session for you! At the session, you can expect to relax and have fun while I guide you through fun poses that feel natural.
Does my parent need to come to my session?
They do not have to be there for your session. It is totally up to you! If your mom or dad decide to come to your senior session, they are welcome to step in for a shot or two!
Can I bring my pet?
You are welcome to bring your pet for a few shots depending on location. Be sure to have someone who is able to handle the pet for the bulk of the session, since this time is all about you!
What else should I know?
Just relax and have fun! We will create some beautiful images!