Preparation Tips for Senior Photo Sessions

Preparation Tips for Senior Photo Sessions

Being well prepared for your senior photo session can make the difference between average and fabulous photos.  Follow these easy tips and you will be well on your way to looking your absolute best!  If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact me.

Mindset

Have fun!  The most important thing  is to have a great time!  That's why you chose {mk} designs.

Relax.  I like to think {mk} designs is rather cool and I am easy to get along with.  Plus, I help you with posing, so there's no pressure on you.

Arrival

Arrive early or on time to your appointment.  Showing up  late means you lose camera time, and we don't want that.

If you are coming from out of town, give yourself plenty of time to find your way around.  The streets in Wichita aren't always the easiest to navigate and having a buffer in case you get lost will save you some stress.

Style

You are unique and beautiful.  Be yourself in how you dress, but here are a few recommendations to help prepare for your day.

Be fashionable.  Wear clothing that's stylish and put a lot of thought into your choices.  This is a unique opportunity and I want you to look amazing!

Clothing

I allow for unlimited wardrobe changes, so bring A LOT of options.  The more outfits you have to choose from, the better.  This will give us flexibility in matching your clothing to backgrounds and the surroundings.

Group your outfits together on hangers.  Make sure items are ironed and ready to go.

Plan on changing quickly.  The faster you change, the more time I have to photograph and the more photo choices you will have later.

Make sure you are comfortable in your clothing and it flatters you.  This will ensure that you like how you look when viewing your photos.

If you are self-conscious about your arms, avoid sleeveless or cap-sleeve shirts and tank tops, as they tend to make arms look fuller.

Avoid stripes and plaid.  Solid colors photograph much better than busy patterns.

Bring a variety of colors and mix the level of styles.  Some should be dressy, some dressy-casual, and some casual.

If you are 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 good looks.

Shoes

I cannot say it loudly enough.  Wear heels!  Whether pumps, or boots, dressy or casual, plain or sassy, heels really make you stand out and look glamorous. 

Flats can also work well if you mix them with the right outfits.

I will photograph you in flip-flops, but they do not photograph well.

Hair

Although I try to help with hair, it is hard to know what your hair "is supposed to look like."  Make sure you are comfortable with your look.  You can even bring your best friend with you for the session and he/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, especially if it windy.  Also bring a brush and mirror for quick hair touch ups.

Do not make any drastic changes to your hairstyle right before you photo session.  This could add unneeded drama to your life.  If you do color your hair on a regular basis, you may want to consider coloring it 7 days before your photo session, when color is at its prime.

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.    Even if you don't normally wear makeup or wear very little, take the time to do it well and your photos will look their best.

Makeup should only be slightly heavier than normal.  Mascara should be clean and not clumpy.  Avoid makeup with 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 for 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 are 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.)

Glasses

Most lenses have a glare.  The safest option is to check with your eye doctor and ask if they will loan you a similar pair without lenses.

Tanning

Tan lines are a distraction and take away from your photos.   If you want to be tan, a tanning bed and/or utilizing varied swimsuit tops will help minimize any existing tan lines.  Just don't overdo it!  We don't want you looking orange and leathery.

Complexion

Makeup helps a lot here, but I do retouch photos, so please do not be concerned about minor breakouts.   If you acne is more severe, you are still OK! I am always happy to help you out with some extra retouching.

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 are welcome to have a couple of shots with a girlfriend or 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 firts, but please call me @ 316.371.7685 if you have any doubts or concerns.

Braces
Do not worry about them!  Give a natural smile and enjoy yourself.  A good smile with braces is far better than an awkard smile that come when you try to hide them.

Undergarments
Please make sure the colors of your undergarment coordiante well with your outfits and don't show through your clothing.  If you need a stapless, 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 undergarments don't leave unpleasing lines underneath your clothing.

Finger & Toe Nails
If you paint your nails, make sure they are done well for your session.  Chipped nail paint will show and distract from you.  Avoid bright colors that will distract form you and may not work with all your outfits.   Instead, opt for basic or natural toes.