The Blog

What’s up, seniors? Are you ready to show off your style, personality, and all-around awesomeness in your senior portraits? As a seasoned DC and Maryland area photographer who’s seen it all, I’ve got some pro tips to make your session unforgettable. From choosing outfits that make you feel confident to striking poses that show off your best features, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make your senior portraits pop. So, let’s get ready to work it and create some unforgettable memories!

Sleep and Hydrate

First and foremost, getting a good night’s sleep is key. Trust me, I know it’s tempting to stay up all night scrolling through Instagram, but those dark circles under your eyes won’t be cute in your photos. So, log off and catch some zzz’s!

And while we’re on the topic of looking fresh and fabulous, let’s talk hydration. Drinking plenty of water will give you that natural glow and make your skin look ah-mazing. So, make sure to stay hydrated leading up to your shoot.

Clothing

Let’s talk outfits. You’ll want to plan ahead and pick out clothes that really showcase your style and make you feel confident. But beware of anything too crazy that might steal the spotlight from the main star… you! So let’s skip the bold patterns and logos, and stick to solid colors that won’t clash with the natural backdrop if we’re shooting outside.

Don’t worry if you’re stressing over your wardrobe, I’ve got your back! Bring a few options, and we can pick the best ones together. And remember, the most important thing is to wear clothes that make you feel amazing.

Speaking of feeling amazing, let’s make sure your hair and makeup are on point too! If you’re going for a more complex hairstyle, it’s best to come to the shoot with it already done. And don’t forget to iron your clothes if they need it!

As your senior portrait photographer, I’m all about capturing your unique style and personality. So let’s make sure your outfits reflect that. Dressy or casual, we’ll get all your best looks.

And when it comes to posing with friends, coordinating outfits will make you guys look like the ultimate squad goals! Just send me some pics ahead of time, and I’ll help you make sure everything looks great together.

So don’t stress, my friends. Just show up ready to rock your best outfits, and I’ll take care of the rest. Together, we’ll create some amazing memories and gorgeous photos that will last a lifetime!

Nails, Waxing, Shaving, and Tanning

If you want your hands to look as awesome as the rest of you, I highly recommend getting a mani/pedi beforehand. And if you’re feeling extra fancy and want to add some color, go for a soft neutral shade that will stand the test of time.

Now, I know we all love a good tan, but if you’re thinking about soaking up some rays before your session, just remember to avoid any nasty sunburns. Trust me, you don’t want to be lobster-red in your photos (unless that’s your thing, I won’t judge!).

If you’re thinking about getting your brows or lips waxed, make sure to do it about a week before your session to give your skin time to recover from any redness. And if you’re a fellow dye-job fanatic like myself, make sure to get those roots taken care of beforehand so they don’t cramp your style in the final portraits.

Remember, these photos are all about showcasing the awesome person you are, so don’t stress too much about the little details. Just relax, be yourself, and let’s make some magic happen!

Makeup And Hair

Listen up, it’s totally understandable to feel a bit overwhelmed. But don’t freak out! Keep it simple and stay true to your personal style. You don’t want to look like a completely different person in the photos.

When it comes to makeup, aim for a little more than your everyday look, but still keep it natural. We want to capture your beauty, not the latest runway trend. And for hair, stick with a style you’ve tried and loved before. No need to risk a bad hair day on the day of your shoot!

Now, if you’re feeling extra fancy, consider getting your makeup and hair done by a pro. It can make a world of difference in how confident you feel and how amazing you look in your pics. But make sure to bring some examples of the look you want, so they don’t go too heavy on the bronzer or the hairspray. You got this. Just remember to keep it simple, stay true to yourself, and trust in the pros (and in me, of course).

Blemishes

It’s important to remember that you look amazing no matter what, and blemishes don’t define you. During editing, I use high-end skin retouching and smoothing to cover any blemishes. Don’t fret if you have a blemish; we’ll take care of it. So no stressing about those blemishes allowed!

Location

Choosing the right location is key to getting the perfect shot. Whether you’re all about that nature vibe or want to show off your city swagger, the location you pick should match your personality and style. And if you have a special spot in mind, even better!

Not only will the location complement your outfit and help you feel at ease, but it can also seriously impact the overall look of your photos. So let’s get creative and find a spot that makes you feel like a million bucks. As your trusty photographer, I’ll help you scope out the best locations in the Maryland and DC areas for your senior portrait session. Let’s do this!

Your Pose

I know the thought of posing for your senior portraits can be pretty daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little bit of practice, you’ll be ready to rock your photo shoot like a pro.

To start, try experimenting with your hand placement and working on your posture. You’ll look and feel so much better when you’re standing up straight and tall. And don’t forget to practice your smile in the mirror! It might feel silly, but it’s worth it to get it perfect and natural-looking.

When we meet before your shoot, be sure to bring in some examples of poses that you like. This way, we can work together to create a set of photos that you’ll absolutely love. And if you’re looking for some inspiration, feel free to check out my website or Pinterest for some posing ideas. We’ll make you look like the superstar that you are!

Props

When it comes to your senior portraits, we’re all about capturing your unique vibes and interests. One way to do this is by adding some props into the mix.

Think sports equipment for all you athletic types, musical instruments for the talented musicians, or even your furry friend to show off your pet-parenting skills. You can also bring items that showcase your hobbies or your future plans, like your favorite books or your college sweatshirt.

And don’t forget about sentimental items that hold a special place in your heart, like a family heirloom or your trusty letter jacket. The possibilities are endless, and adding props can really give your photos a fun and personal flair. Just be sure to talk to your photographer beforehand to make sure everything fits in with the overall vibe of your shoot. Let’s capture the real you!

Your Entourage

Bringing someone along to the photoshoot is always a good idea. Whether it’s your mom, your bestie, or even your furry friend, having someone familiar nearby can help you relax and let your personality shine through. They can also help with any outfit or accessory decisions – bonus!

Relax and Let Loose

Now, when it comes to the actual shoot day, don’t sweat it. Just come with an open mind and a willingness to have a good time, and we’ll make magic happen. I’ll be there to guide you through different poses and expressions, so you can just focus on being your fabulous self. At the end of the day, my goal is to make you feel confident and have a blast during your senior portrait session.
Looking to book a senior portrait session in the Maryland and DC area? I LOVE providing high school seniors and their families with beautiful portraits and professional products to share with generations to come!  Let’s chat!