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Writer's pictureBrittany Reeves

How to Prepare for your Senior Session

Updated: Dec 27, 2019

I absolutely LOVE capturing seniors during one of the most memorable years in their lives. Since day one of my business senior portraits have been my absolute favorite to capture. Part of my job as your senior photographer is to relieve as much stress as possible before the day of your session, and to make it where it is super easy for you to be comfortable during your session. If you have never been professionally photographed- don't worry, I will pose and guide you for our entire shoot - no modeling experience required!


There are a few ways that you can prep before your session to make it the BEST experience possible.


I will be sharing tips and tricks for outfits, hair, makeup, and more !


Choosing Outfits:

Choosing what you will wear for your photo shoot is a huge decision that can make or break your senior portrait session! I know that sounds dramatic…but, if you accidentally wear something that isn’t flattering on camera or something that you don’t feel confident in…it can ruin the experience for you! So, here are some of the best ways to choose what to wear.

I always recommend the three category selection. You choose one outfit in each of the categories listed below to wear to your session.


-The Parent Pleaser: A style that is classic and will withstand the test of time. It usually is a solid color, and not too revealing. It's an outfit that you can dress up with some jewelry and a nice pair of heels. This is the picture that your parents and grandparents frame for their house.



-Senior Character: This a chance to wear an outfit that shows who you are and how you invest your time. This is a chance to put on your ball uniform, cheerleading outfit, bring your trumpet, or wear your letterman. If you have your cap and gown it would be great to wear a light colored dress/ romper underneath and throw your cap and gown on over it.



- Everyday You: For this outfit you are going to want to pick something that represents you as a person. Something that you can be seen in daily. Maybe its your favorite t-shirt and jeans or the dress that you wear every chance that you get. Remember to wear something comfortable. We are going to be standing, sitting, and everything in between. If you feel uncomfortable or wear a skirt/blouse that is too revealing - you are no going to love the pictures.



Make sure when selecting your outfits to keep three things in mind:

1. Be COMFORTABLE:

If you do not like fitted clothing or feel insecure about your stomach- Leave those outfits at home. Personally, I try to steer clear of items that are fitted in the tummy area (don’t we all?) just because it makes constantly wonder if it looks bad. Additionally, if you have a body region you are uncomfortable with (arms/legs etc) make sure you pick clothing that covers those parts of your body. I love long flows dresses because they cover all of my insecurities. Remember : Even though an outfit may be the CUTEST thing you've ever seen it doesn't mean that it makes you feel Beautiful!


If you have an insecure body part wear...

Arm? Three quarter length sleeves create arm slimming effect. Jackets, blazers, and cardigans can also be used to cover arms. Strapless dresses, and thin straps have the opposite effect and tend to highlight the arm region!

Legs? Heels tend to elongate your legs and make you look altogether skinnier. Closed toe heels in particular carry out a slimming, elongating look. Have open toed heels? maybe get a pedicure!

Stomach: Choose a long flowy dresses that are high waisted usually cover up your stomach region. Or short dress, mid waist that goes out in a hoop like manner.


2. Be BRIGHT + THINK OUTSIDE OF THE BOX:

On camera, solid black + white can make skin tones look very washed out and unflattering. I absolutely love when seniors wear pastel blues, pinks, purples, and emerald greens and navy blues! Sometimes, color combos that may seem odd in-person end up photographing BEAUTIFULLY on camera!


3. Add LAYERS & TEXTURES:

In the fall and winter, adding layers to your outfits always looks great in portraits! A sweater paired with a scarf and jewelry adds dimension to your images and makes for super fun posing options! Even in the warmer months (spring + summer) you can add these layers + dimension by wearing a tank top with a cute sheer cardigan or by throwing a denim vest over a dress! Also, Adding texture to your outfit makes the biggest difference, and it prevents the images from looking dull! Combining textures that you may not normally use together like sequins + cable knit sweaters or leather + fur make GREAT pairs!



HAIR + MAKEUP:

If you can swing the extra cost I HIGHLY RECOMMEND getting a professional to do your hair and make up. I'm not just saying this to get you to spend more money, it honestly makes the biggest difference in your photos for many reasons.


1. They are TRAINED professionals:

You invest in a photographer over your mom's point and shoot for a reason. We have the professional equipment, knowledge, and experience to get the job done in the BEST way. The same goes for your hair and make up. You may be really great at make up and love the way it looks, but make up photographs completely different than it looks in person. My camera is built to pick up details that you don't notice with the human eye so Hire a professional! I also recommend adding false lashes, waxing your eyebrows a few days in advance, and getting a fresh manicure! Don't neglect the nails! We will take a lot of shots with your hands in your face, don't have chipped polish or crazy designs. French manicures, light colors, and even nails with no color photograph best!


2. Who doesn’t like being PAMPERED!?

I don’t ever want my seniors to feel like their portrait session is just simply “taking pictures”, I want it to be an EXPERIENCE. So, if you arrive after an hour of being pampered, the entire experience has already started on a good note! If you arrive frustrated or stressed, because you've spent hours trying to make your make up look good and still aren't pleased it can affect the entire experience, including the way you look in photographs!


Weather: It is uncontrollable. Living in LA we know that the chance of rain is very possible, especially when the session is booked months in advance. I will be in constant contact with you and try to avoid rescheduling at all cost!


This experience is so important. You are going to have so much fun, and if you take these few tips and tricks to prep for your session, I promise it will be that much Better.


If you haven't booked with me yet...


Senior year is almost here, a season of making lasting memories, life choices, and unforgettable moments. My number one priority as your senior photographer is to create genuine images of you radiating your personality and style. I want these images to reflect you; all while keeping you feeling comfortable & full of joy. No-modeling skills required, I will pose you and walk you through every step of creating those natural, light & airy photos you've been dreaming of!


All packages start at $200 & include a custom, personalized senior experience with Brittany Ashlyn Photography as well as a session at the location of your choice, outfit changes, and an online gallery where you can easily download, share and print all of your fully edited, high-resolution digital images.


I am currently booking West Monroe, Monroe, Sterlington, & Ruston 2019/2020 Seniors ! Hurry, Limited sessions are available & I am already booking up for Fall & Spring Sessions. For more information please contact me!




XOXO,

Brittany





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