| Senior portraits have come a long way from the | | | | about the types of photos you would like so that |
| days your parents where high school seniors; they | | | | the photographer can advise you of the wardrobe to |
| are a far cry from the "tilt your head and smile" | | | | bring. Remember to make sure they are stain and |
| poses that where photographed in the school gym or | | | | wrinkle free for the shoot. In addition, don't forget to |
| a local portrait studio in town. | | | | ask about what colors to wear. Your photographer |
| High school seniors today are more demanding and | | | | will advise you on this issue as well. |
| have a lot more activities going on in their daily lives | | | | 4. Hair and Makeup - Stick with a proven hairstyle for |
| than their counter parts of the past and thereby | | | | your shoot. As for make-up keep it simple and avoid |
| require a more unique, and creative approach to their | | | | bright red lipstick for girls. You want to look as |
| senior portraits. These seniors require an approach | | | | natural as possible. If you want to have a makeup |
| that captures their true personality; their likes, | | | | artists present, either hire one for the shoot or ask |
| hobbies, personality, and extracurricular activities. | | | | your photographer if they offer a make-up artist |
| While a tremendous amount of responsibility is placed | | | | service. |
| on the photographer to capture these unique photos, | | | | 5. Blemishes and Braces - Don't stress over them. |
| the senior student doesn't escape any responsibility | | | | Make sure your photographer can remove them for |
| on their part. Below is a list by California portrait | | | | you if you desire. Most photographers offer this |
| photographer, Alyn Stafford that outlines senior | | | | service either for free or for a fee. |
| portrait preparation tips that should be considered by | | | | 6. Be yourself - Remember, Your senior portraits |
| the senior prior to their photo shoot. Following the list | | | | reflect who you are. Be yourself during the shoot. |
| can almost guarantee a very productive and | | | | Most photographers will do a warm-up session for |
| successful photo session. | | | | about 10 to 15 minutes to get you use to the |
| | | | camera and their working style. |
| 1. Be Flexible - Your days events and planning can | | | | 7. Bring a Friend or Parent - It's a good idea to bring |
| change. The photographer can be inspired by many | | | | someone with you when doing the photo shoot. But |
| things and change the plan. Flexibility in mood and | | | | remember, you don't want an audience either. Too |
| timing can help you stay focused and mentally | | | | many people can make you tense as well as |
| prepared for a great senior portrait session. | | | | interfere with the photographer. |
| 2. Get a Good nights Rest - Being tired the next day | | | | 8. Arrive a Few Minutes Early - Arriving early to your |
| for your photo shoot can be harmful to your photos. | | | | photo shoot allows you and the photographer to go |
| Tired eyes and a "dragging" body don't make for a | | | | over last minute details, and changes in the plan, and |
| good photo session. | | | | to prepare for the shoot. |
| 3. Take Several Outfits - It's a good idea to have | | | | 9. Have Fun - Taking senior portraits should not be |
| several outfits of clothing that reflect your personal | | | | work, it should be fun. The photos are all about you, |
| style. You should first consult with your photographer | | | | so make the most of it. Have fun with the session. |