Why Have Senior Photos Taken?
When I graduated high school I didn't have a formal senior photos taken. My senior year I took a film photography class and I always liked being the one taking photos. Looking back it would have been a good idea to have a good photographer take my senior photos. Why? The headshot school photo isn't enough to show who a senior really is, it doesn't document who you were in school, what you liked to do, what your favorite clothes were, what your style was.
What to Include in Your Senior Photos
Do you have a hobby or interest you want to include in your photo? Do you like to snowboard or snow ski? Why not capture that?
Show Your Personality
This senior loved art and design. The graffiti wall matched her personality well. She chose to wear her favorite color yellow and it really was a relaxed photo shoot.
I usually like to have an hour shoot for seniors and you can have a clothes change as well.
Outdoor Senior Photos
My favorite places for photos are outdoors. In one location you can have a variety of different looks.
Tunnel Springs Park is a favorite with lots of long grass and rolling hills. There is a nice view of the mountains or the tall weeds.
You can be casual in a t-shirt or more formal in a dress--whatever is more "you." If you're a sports player you can bring your jersey or uniform for a photo. Musicians can bring their instrument to have in the photo. Really it's up to you what you would like to have in your photos. Really personalize the photos to show your interests.
When to Have Senior Photos
Some seniors like to have photos taken in the fall their senior year, while others like them in the spring. The main thing is to have them weeks before you need them for graduation announcements. March and April are the best time to have photos in time for graduation.
Other Things to Think About
Arrival
Arrive early or on time to your appointment. Showing up late means you lose camera time, and we don’t want that.
Style
You’re unique and beautiful. Follow our guidelines but be yourself in how you dress.
Be fashionable
Wear clothing that’s stylish and put a lot of thought into your choices. This is a unique opportunity and we want you to look amazing!
Clothing
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, things you feel confident wearing that fit well: not too baggy or too tight. Please iron clothes and cap and gown for the photos. Group your outfits together on hangers. Make sure items are ironed and ready to go.
If you’re self-conscious about your arms, avoid sleeveless or cap-sleeve shirts and tank tops, as they tend to make arms look fuller.
Avoid fluorescent colors, logos on your shirts, and overly bright colors. This can make a color cast on your skin that might not be flattering.
Bring a variety of colors and mix the level of styles. Some should be dressy, some dressy-casual, and some casual.
If you’re comfortable in dresses, bring them! They photograph really well and offer a nice variety from your other casual clothing choices. We can mix dressy and casual dresses for some great looks. It's fun to have casual clothes as well as a dressy outfit for your shoot.
Plan on changing quickly
The faster you change, the more time we have to photograph and the more photo choices you’ll have later.
Hair
Make sure you like the look or let the photographer know your preferences. Better yet, bring your best friend with you for the session and he or she can help. Hair style is ultimately YOUR responsibility. Any hair changes during the session should be quick and simple so you have as much camera time as possible.
Bring hair spray, clips, pins, and whatever else is needed to keep your hair out of your eyes if it’s windy. Also bring a brush and mirror for quick hair touch-ups.
Do not make drastic changes to your hairstyle right before your photo session. This could add unneeded drama to your life.
Makeup
Makeup that is well done is one of the best preparations you can make for your session. It will even out skin tones and help give your photos that extra pop for a model-like look.
Makeup should only be slightly heavier than normal. Mascara should be clean and not clumpy. Avoid makeup with an SPF because it tends to create a shine. Summer shine can be controlled by using translucent powder that knocks out shine without adding additional color.
Jewelry
Keep it simple. Big, shiny jewelry can distract from the important subject, you. If you have different jewelry for different outfits, you might put each set of jewelry in a plastic baggie and hang it on the hanger with that outfit.
All that being said, the proper jewelry can really complement your outfit. It’s nice to have a variety to choose from and it doesn’t hurt to bring numerous options with you.
Props
They’re great! Bring props that help show who you are. Some popular choices are:
- Sports equipment (soccer ball, basketball, softball bat, etc.)
- Sports uniforms
- Musical instruments
- Activity related items (dance, art, school clubs, etc.)
Tanning
Tan lines are a distraction and take away from your photos. We suggest you use a tanning bed and varied swimsuit tops to minimize any existing tan lines. If you choose to tan outside or in a tanning bed, don’t overdo it. We don’t want you looking orange and leathery.
Friends & Parents
Friends or parents are welcome and often can be a help. However, if they distract you, it may be best to meet them when the session is over. You’re welcome to have a couple of shots with a boyfriend, best friend, sibling, or parent at no extra charge.
Weather
Don’t worry about clouds because they actually even out the light and make for ideal shooting conditions. But falling rain is an issue and we will have to reschedule. I will try to contact you first, but please call me at 801-682-6336 if you have any doubts or concerns.
Undergarments
Please make sure the colors of your undergarment coordinate well with your outfits and don’t show through your clothing. If you need a strapless, please bring one to your session. Tucking or moving straps will not always work or give the most pleasing look. Check ahead of time to ensure that undergarments don’t leave unpleasing lines underneath your clothing. Dress code is required for yearbook photos.
Finger & Toe Nails
If you paint your nails, make sure they’re done well for your session. Chipped nail paint will show and distract from you. Avoid bright colors that will distract from you and may not work with all your outfits. Instead, opt for basic or natural tones.
Celebrate your senior year with timeless photos!
Any Other Questions?
I hope you found this information helpful. Let me know how I can help you!! You can email me at MichelleDeppePhoto@gmail.com or fill out the form below.
