High School Senior Portraits

Taking senior portraits can feel a little stressful. There is so much to consider. When to take the photos? Where to take the photos? What to wear for the photos? Should you do one or two or multiple locations? All of these questions can come up when planning and I am here to give some insight and direction to help you plan for the best senior photo session!

How to Prepare for a Senior Session?

Senior photos are a way to remember and celebrate the amazing accomplishments of graduating and preparing for adult life. Working with your photographer is key to getting all the details ready for your session day.

1. Decide how many locations you want: Many seniors choose 1 location, but this is a chance to choose what your needs are! Locations can be based around the things you love. Do you love the outdoors? Is there a building that has meaning to you? Do you want to include a practice field, studio, or other location that has significance to you and your life? This can help determine if you need multiple settings. My standard package is 1 hour and 1 location, but I offer packages that can tailor to your needs and location desires. If you do choose my package with 1 hour and 1 location, we make the most of that spot. usually we move around so your gallery looks like you moved to many locations. For example, if you went to Bass Lake, we could use the water and docks, then head to the trails, and then end at the bridge. It would appear you went to 3 locations and really only had to walk a total of ten minutes to reach all destinations! If you are totally lost where to take your photos, I have a whole guide I can send over once we book the session and work together to decide the best fit!
2. Choose your outfit(s): Choosing your outfit is a way to show off your personality! Do you love bold colors? Do you want something soft and delicate? Maybe you want to go with something more classic and traditional. After you book a session, I send over a styling guide to give you ideas how to choose your look, or if you want, looks! With proper planning we can easily fit in 2 looks in one hour. Or if you choose multiple locations and more time, 3-4 looks. Another easy way to get the most out of your styling is to add jackets, different shoes, a hat, or props. Without making a full outfit change, additions like these can make it feel new and give your gallery more variety!
3. Props: Props, such as an instrument you play, gear from sports, your dance shoes, favorite book, etc. are all great things to incorporate into your session! These props should have meaning to you and add to the session so you have memories to look back on and see the accomplishments and passions you had during this phase of life.

When to Take Senior Portraits?

The next question to ask yourself is when to take your senior photos? Typically I see two peak times- Fall and Spring.

One thing to consider: Does your school have deadlines when photos need to be submitted? I know a few local schools that need submission by early fall. If your school doesn't require that, then spring can also be a great time! Both seasons, especially in North Carolina, are so pleasant! In spring you have the gorgeous blossoms, but in fall you have the dramatic changing leaves. There's a lot to work with either season. You also don't have to struggle with high humidity or extreme temperatures. If you can't take them in the spring or fall, an indoor location may be the way to go! Studio sessions can be so fun and creative! You can use different backdrops that match tour personality and vibe!

What to expect day of session

For the best experience, your photographer should be right there guiding you through the whole session. I love posing and directing my seniors! Questions of 'where do I put my hands' don't have to come up because I tell you! Your job as a senior is to bring your outfits, props, and then just have a great time celebrating you!

What to bring:

1. Outfits including change of shoes, hats, jackets, etc.
2. Props such as sports equipment, dance shoes, favorite book, musical instrument, etc.
3. Cap and gown if you want
4. Water
5. Small toiletries if you want to touch up hair and makeup.