Having a senior session is important because it allows you to capture and preserve memories of a significant milestone in your life.
These photos serve as a reminder of your achievements, interests, and personality during your senior year and sometimes also since kindergarten.
Additionally, senior sessions provide an opportunity to involve loved ones, create lasting memories with friends and family, and mark the transition from high school to the next chapter of your life.
They become cherished keepsakes that you can look back on for years to come, serving as a visual representation of your journey and growth during this important time of your life
What should be included in my senior session?
Sports Jerseys from your varsity team or your letterman’s jacket. You worked hard to make it to Varsity sports, first chair band, captain of the chess team, high-school academic All-American, etc. Showcase your talents by highlighting you in your gear. It’s a great way to show your spirit, personality, pride, and accomplishments.
Musical instruments. I love music. Bring your ukulele, electric guitar, acoustic bass, marching band drum, trumpet, clarinet, or bassoon. I don’t care what you bring as long as we can capture you in your musical glory.
Accessorize with care. Goofy and over-the-top accessories are fun for spirit week and for candids with your friends in the quad, but your senior photos should timelessly showcase you. What does it mean to be “timeless?” It means that your photos can withstand the test of fads and trends and still look relevant. Some accessories to consider are heirloom pieces (pocket watches, grandma’s ring, mom’s locket, a necklace, a bracelet, a fancy wristwatch) are wonderful to showcase in your session, as well as special accessories.
Pets. Pets are amazing companions. I love capturing dogs with their humans. If your dog means the world to you, bring him/her and we will incorporate them into your session. For some of us, our dogs make us feel endless joy, but dogs aren’t the only companions we acquire throughout our lives. If you have a different animal; horse, snake, goat… just make sure that the location we choose will be a location that is good for your particular pet. Dogs are great anywhere, as long as they are trained. Other animals may need some special considerations.
Flowers, balloons, and confetti are fun little extras you can bring to your session. I do not provide them, but I find it fun to incorporate these items into your session. The only consideration for these items is that they are easily cleaned up so we leave no litter behind.
You can bring your family to your senior session. Some of the most fun sessions I have ever photographed have been with seniors and their families. It takes the pressure off the senior and allows you to shine with the people who love you most. It also acts as a double session because you get great photos of your senior year and family photos at the same time. Win-win!
Do you have a beautiful classic car? Why not showcase it at your senior session? We can base the location on what would showcase you and your car the best.
Have you already been accepted to the university of your choice? Then bring along that college gear. If you don’t know yet, never fear, all my seniors are gifted with an optional college mini-session when they do get their acceptance letters and gear.
Finally, you have spent a lifetime together. You’ve known each other since you were toddlers or hers was the only friendly face you could find when you moved here in 5th grade. It doesn’t matter how you meet, all that matters is that you want this person to share in your celebrations. Then let’s do a best friend senior session. Both seniors book their own session, but for the same date and right after each other. let me know at checkout that you want pictures together. Then let the magic unravel as we laugh and have a blast through your senior session.
What NOT to do at my senior session?
Don’t start a new skincare routine in the days leading up to your session. Sometimes, our skin can react to new products, leaving us with a skin rash, irritation, or breakout. Save the new routines for a different time.
Don’t do anything drastic to your hair right before your session. I know, it’s super fun to experiment with a new color or cut, but sometimes, the results are less than desirable. Don’t risk it. Save the experimentation for a less momentous time in your life.
Don’t wait until the last minute to pick out your wardrobe. You want to make sure that your clothes fit, are comfortable, and make you feel great.
Gather all your belongings into one garment bag that is easy to transport.
If you’re wearing glasses, opt to wear ones that do not have transitional lenses. Transitional lenses are very hard to deal with in post-production, and I don’t edit them out without an extra editing fee because it is time-consuming (even with the filter I created).
Avoid neon colors and large logos. Neon doesn’t flatter most people, and while it’s fun, it can have disastrous consequences for skin tone. Logos are advertisements for companies. If you have your own company, then sport your logo in one or two, but there is no reason to make Nike extra money during your senior session.
Avoid super trendy looks that won’t stand the test of time. Most things make a comeback, I mean, you all own super cute sporting clothes that I also wore at 18, but some trends are not so cute. Test out your looks by having a friend or trusted family member take photos of you in each look before you decide on your final looks.
Remember, you’re going for timeless, not dated. And let's face it, some trends are better off not being remembered.