5 senior portrait don’ts

After 19 years as a photographer, I’ve come across some mistakes that seniors could make for their photoshoot. Let’s walk through them so you avoid making these mistakes yourself.

1. Don’t go for a new hair style before your session

This is not the time to try a dramatic new haircut or other new hair experiments like highlights or color. Play it safe and stick to the tried and true leading up to your senior portraits, which is about 6 months before. If you do something before six months, chances are there will be enough time to grow it out a bit or fix a bad color job. So if you get the itch to cut bangs, chop it all off, or dye it pink; hold off until after your session.

2. Don’t skip the provided info

I’ve spent years putting together and editing all the info I send to my seniors. I do this with the intention of helping as much as possible through the whole process. I certainly don’t expect every senior to read every word; however in my case, read all of the emails, the inquiry guide and main info and at least skim through the welcome guide to make sure you’re prepared and know what to expect.

3. Don’t Tan

I’m personally not a big fan of a tan, no matter how it’s achieved. Whether it’s from a spray, bottle, or the sun. If you really want some color, please do not do it within a week or two of your session! Tanning can lead to streaks, peeling skin, tan lines, blotchy skin, breakouts, orange hands/skin and marks on your clothing. Your natural skin is beautiful and it’s you!

4. Don’t put things off to the last minute

Don’t wait until the last minute/night before to prepare for your session! You don’t want to be stressed-out the night before your senior portraits because something doesn’t fit, you don’t have the correct underwear, you didn’t read the info I provided, etc. This also goes for ordering clothing online, make sure you give yourself enough time that if you don’t like it or it doesn’t fit, you still have time to get something else.

5. Don’t be afraid to speak up

These are your senior pictures, and it’s your photographer’s job to make sure you’re comfortable and have fun. Before your session, if you need help with what-to-wear, your location choice or any questions, ask! I provide hair and makeup and I tell every senior, it’s the stylist’s job to give them a look they are comfortable with. A good stylist would never be offended if you want any tweaks or changes to your look. Overall speak up! If you have an idea, need help, have a question, aren’t comfortable, etc.