I created this blog post to hopefully help out my fall 2020 seniors and any class of 2021/2022 senior gals who are already planning ahead! You’ll find some fun ideas that I’d love to photograph (email me if you like any of them!) and some tips/tricks for your session. Leave me questions in the comments or just shoot me a personal message! 💕
1. Make a mood/Pinterest board! Figure out what vibes, outfits, and ideas inspire you. (Preppy, boho, retro, urban, moody, dreamy… the sky is the limit, friends.) Don’t forget about locations, too! I’m 3000% willing to travel for senior photos. Wanna do a boho session in the desert? Ya got it! How about wintery wonderland with a ski run and some cute cabin photos? I’m your girl! Or just at home here in the midwest? Easy peasy!!!
2. Add in some of your favorite things. (Anyone singing the Sound of Music yet!?) Need some quick ones to help get you started? If I (Amelia) was planning my senior photos right now, I’d include paddle-boarding or kayaks (or heck… rent a boat on the lake at sunset!), my favorite local (scooped!) ice cream in a cone, and maybe a flower crown to wear with my favorite dress. Oh.. and probably my Instax camera for some Polaroid fun! // CHECK OUT MY MOOD BOARD HERE!! // Themes or ideas that would be fun could include camping (let’s grab your hammock, a thermos of coffee, your favorite flannel & beanies, and hit a trail for sunrise or sunset photos!), lake activities (as I’ve mentioned) or 80’s… or any decade!… themed photos. #strangerthingsforever
3 Explore your closet (and the mall). It’s time to talk clothes! Take a look at your Pinterest board… what themes do you see? Most likely, you’ll notice that neutral tones and nature tones photograph really well. (Black, white, grey, browns/rust, greens/blues) You’ll probably want to stray away from hot pink, neon colors, and anything with super large or crazy prints or patterns.
4. Pick out some accessories! Vests, scarves, jewelry, shoes, hats, handbags, instruments… the list goes on for things to include that will add to your senior photos without bleeding over into “crazy prop land” territory. Not sure if you’re being too extra? Just ask! :) I, or any photographer, will be happy to help you out.
5. Think about the details… hair and makeup to be exact. This tip is primarily for the girls, but guys… if you have acne or skin discoloration, a light amount of foundation or finishing powder won’t hurt you. ;) Gals, same for you! Even if you don’t wear much makeup on the daily it will SAVE YOUR PHOTOS. I can edit a few large pimples but professional makeup will set your pictures apart. You should have clean nails, if not a fresh coat of polish or your favorite stick-on nails. And know your hair! Maybe even throw it up at the end of your session into a messy bun, after the curls fall out (like Sophie did!) to capture your true self. :)
6. Don’t forget to have fun! I will have posing ideas for you, but I’ve found that the girls who come with a few ideas of their own end up having way more fun! Plan to have fun, laugh at me (or your little sister) and just hang out. We’ll try some silly things and figure out what works & what doesn’t. If you bring your confidence and genuine self, we’ll have a great time and capture some amazing senior photos!
