Senior Session Guide
(For all Senior Portrait Clients)
1. Posing & Confidence
During your session, I’ll guide you with poses that highlight your personality and style. Feel free to suggest any ideas you have, and remember, confidence shows through! Stand tall, smile naturally, and relax—this is your time to shine. Embrace your unique look, and we’ll work together to capture your best self.
2. Arrival Time
Arrive five minutes before your scheduled session to ensure we have enough time to get settled and start on time.
If you’re running late, please let me know ASAP. It's all good.
3. Location
It's important to book your location ahead of time, especially if there are permits or reservations required. Please let me know the location at least two weeks in advance so we can plan accordingly and ensure everything goes smoothly. Let me know if you need location suggestions—I can help with that!
4. Extra Costs
If we need to travel outside of a 30-mile radius of Central PA, there may be a travel fee. Travel fees are generally span from $15-$40 location dependent.
5. Lint Rollers
Always bring a lint roller to your session, especially if you’re wearing dark colors. It helps eliminate any stray hair, lint, or dust from your clothes and keeps you looking sharp. If you do not have one, let me know and I will be sure to provide one for you.
6. What to Bring
The package you booked had the number of outfits that came with it. Make sure to bring all desired outfits without exceeding the maximum number on the package. If you have accessories (jewelry, hats, scarves, etc.), bring those along to add variety to your photos.
7. How to Carry Your Items
Keep your outfits and accessories neatly packed in a bag or garment bag to avoid wrinkles. I have had past seniors bring little wheelbarrows that work very well. I highly suggest these wheelbarrows.
8. Props
Props can add a personal touch to your photos, whether it's a sports item, musical instrument, or something that reflects your hobbies or interests. Keep it simple and meaningful—avoid bringing too many items to avoid cluttering the photos. If you're unsure, feel free to run your ideas by me before the session, and we can decide what works best for your photos!
I have had seniors bring cameras, soccer balls, varsity jackets, headphones, dogs, instruments, flowers, stools, and more.
9. Best Colors to Wear
Solid colors tend to photograph best. Earth tones, pastels, and jewel tones are always great choices.
Avoid wearing clothing with large logos or overly busy patterns—they can distract from your face. Subtle patterns and textures are spectacular though and add so much into your photos.
If you're unsure of what to wear, I can provide suggestions based on your style and the location we’ll be shooting at.
10. Hair & Makeup
If you're planning to wear makeup, go for a natural, slightly enhanced look. Heavy makeup might not translate well in photos.
Hair should be styled comfortably but neatly. If you're getting a haircut, do it at least a week before your session. This goes for girls and boys.
11. Family Members & Friends
You’re welcome to bring a friend or family member along to keep you company and help with outfit changes or make you laugh. They can make the experience more enjoyable and relaxed!! Most commonly, moms come along because they love to see these special moments captured after such a huge milestone.
12. Relax & Have Fun
Most importantly, enjoy the experience!! This session is all about capturing you at a special time in your life. Don't stress. Let's make this memorable!!
Tips and Tricks
(For all Senior Portrait Clients)
1. Movement & Candid Shots
A little movement can make your photos feel more dynamic. Walk, twirl, or shift your weight to create more natural-looking shots. Don’t worry, I’ll guide you to make sure everything looks great.
Candid shots (where you’re laughing or looking off into the distance) often turn out to be some of the best! Be yourself, and don’t feel like every shot has to be posed.
2. Weather Considerations
If we’re shooting outdoors, keep an eye on the weather. If it’s stormy or rainy, we may need to reschedule to capture the best photos. I'll be doing this, but just be aware that rescheduling is not uncommon.
3. Shoes & Accessories
Make sure your shoes are clean and fit the style of your outfit. They’ll show up in some of the photos, so it’s worth putting some thought into what you wear.
Don’t overdo it with accessories. A few key pieces will elevate your look without overwhelming the shot. Simple jewelry, a stylish watch, or a favorite hat can all make a difference.
4. Avoid Last-Minute Changes
Plan your outfits ahead of time and try them on before the session to ensure everything fits and looks how you envision it. Last-minute changes often lead to stress or items that don’t fit properly in the photos.
If you’re bringing props, make sure they’re ready to go and organized the day before.
5. Get Plenty of Sleep
Rest is essential before your shoot. A full night’s sleep will help you feel energized, look fresh, and be more confident during the session.
6. Skin Care
Be mindful of any skincare treatments or products you use. Avoid trying new products right before your session to prevent irritation. We wouldn't want anything terrible to happen the day of the shoot.
7. Communicating with Me
Don’t hesitate to reach out before or during the shoot if there’s something you want to try or a specific look you’re hoping for. Your input is important to me, and I’m here to make sure you feel comfortable and happy with the results.
I have seniors even search up poses they love and screenshot them so we can create them. I love when seniors do this because it personalizes these photos for what they truly want.
8. Portable Changing Tent
For your convenience, I’ll have a portable changing tent on hand for when you need to change outfits during the shoot. Quick, simple, and portable.
9. Check Your Smile
Your smile can make a huge difference in your photos! Before the session, take a moment to look at yourself in the mirror and practice different smiles. Make sure you’ve got the smile that feels just right for your photos!!