Preparing for your senior portraits
The outfit planning process does not need to be stressful at all! It’s not always necessary to purchase all new outfits. You may be able to pull together some fresh variations of things you already own!
Though not every piece needs to be a solid, avoid busy logos/text. Solid colors or timeless patters photograph best.
Keep in mind that fit is important in the sense that more fitted clothing will photograph better than blousy or baggy clothing. Unless it’s cinched at the waist, tops that are too slouchy may look unflattering in photos vs in real life. If you already have an outfit you love and is seasonally appropriate, start there.
Decide how formal or casual you'd like your ensemble to be. Consider the location as well. Are we photographing in nature? Examine the color wheel and make sure your colors are complementary to the scenery or weather involved. Unless it's very intentional, you probably also want to avoid very formal clothing for a session in the forest or walking along a beach, for example. Are we photographing downtown in a more edgy, architectural location? Something more bold may be better suited than a long, flowy dress.
Layers & texture - jackets, sweaters, lace, denim, accessories = visual interest. Footwear matters! Shoes show more than you'd think!
Need inspiration? I'd recommend checking Pinterest for: “(the season) Senior photo outfit inspo flat lay” or “(the season) Senior photo outfit inspiration” + gender and browsing through them. You’ll likely find inspo for color combinations as well as pieces that can be used to create excellent outfit choices as a whole!
Here's an article that dives into some color study and how to determine the best shades for your specific skin tone.
Makeup
If you have a trusted hair and makeup artist, I highly recommend their expertise and would suggest hiring them for your occasion. However, it's not completely necessary and I totally get feeling more comfortable handling it yourself.
Keep in mind that photography makeup is a bit different than day to day makeup. We use strategic external lighting for most sessions, and there is a possibility that the lighting will be more high definition than you're accustomed to seeing your features photographed in under less lit circumstances like snapshots and selfies. I don't like to use the term "washed out", but applying defining eye makeup a bit heavier than usual is helpful. Absolutely would emphasize, (and make sure your makeup artist knows it's photography not event), to NOT wear anything reflective like glitter or highlighter - even if you're someone who uses those regularly. Matte is best!
Skip SPF on the day of your shoot! Some formulas cause flashback.
Avoid experimenting with new products day-of.
Here is a video I really like to share with very helpful tips for styling your own hair and makeup.
She explains it very well:
Session Day Checklist
✔ Outfits steamed or ironed
✔ Shoes, socks, jewelry, accessories
✔ Light touch-up kit
✔ Water & snacks
✔ Confidence—come as you are!
Bring your personality
Your photos should feel like you. Props welcome! Consider:
Sports gear or instrument
Cap & gown or letterman jacket
Pet, favorite book, hobby item
Your best friend or sibling for a few shots
This is a huge milestone and accomplishment, so let's have fun with it! Be sure to get plenty of rest in the days leading up to your session and stay hydrated!
If you’re still not finding any helpful inspiration after this point, please reach out and you know I’m happy to consult further with you in person or via telephone or zoom.