10 Tips for a Successful Girls Senior Portrait Session

1. Makeup: Keep it simple and classy. Lip gloss photographs well and can be reapplied easily. Your other makeup should be as matte as possible.  Anything with glitter looks like little white spots on print, as does shiny skin. So it’s a good idea to bring some matte face powder to apply throughout your session. Don’t stress about blemishes because they are an easy fix in Photoshop. If you aren’t a makeup kinda girl, consider hiring a make up artist to help. They will listen to your needs and it will save you from purchasing a bunch of makeup that you’ll never wear again. Your photographer can provide recommendations of good makeup artists. We like subtle makeup with eyes that pop.
2.  Have your fingers and toes freshly painted or naked. Chipped nails are a distraction. 
3.  Make your clothing selections well in advance of your session. If you run around frantically trying to figure it all out the evening before your session, you’ll probably regret your choices and you won’t be satisfied with your portraits. Make sure your clothes are wrinkle-free and make every effort to conceal your bra straps. You will probably have to make wardrobe changes “on the fly”. We’re always surprised at how adept teenagers are at this, but we would suggest volleyball style shorts and a simple spaghetti strap under your clothes, if possible. We would definitely suggest volleyball style shorts if you are wearing a dress, because most photographers are known for making you climb trees and sit on rocks.  Try to keep your clothes classy and timeless- it will save you embarrassment 20 years from now!  
4. Adding accessories will add character and “pop” to your portraits. Some examples are earrings, necklaces, bracelets, belts, hats, scarves, and awesome shoes.
5. Reflect your personality in your props- music, sports, art…
6. Hair: Practice your hair in advance.  Take a snap shot with your cell phone and see how it looks.  If your a “pony tail” kinda girl, you may not want a prom worthy hairstyle.  If you can’t decide between curly or straight hair, we can split up your session so you have a chance to have two different looks. Pony tails are tricky, as you know, because they don’t always photograph well. We would suggest an off side pony tail for several shots, but maybe not for the entire session.
7. Schedule a pre-session consultation with your photographer. It will give you a chance to meet your photographer and make sure you have the same vision. Your photographer can show you images of different locations and give you clothing and makeup suggestions. You can determine what time of day works for the lighting you desire and you can map out the locations you desire. That will help you formulate a plan with your clothing selections.
8. Schedule with a friend. Most photographers offer a discounted sitting fee if you schedule your session with a friend. AND it makes the whole experience much more fun!
9. Check out Senior Portrait Galleries to get a feel for what appeals to you. Check out our Senior Portrait Gallery at www.inspirationsinphotography.com.
10. What NOT to do:

• empire waist dresses and blouses are usually discouraged because they just aren’t flattering on camera
• makeup with sparkles or glitter
• hair bands around your wrist
• chipped nail polish
• straps showing
• wrinkled clothing
• don’t wear clothing that is too “sexy” or revealing

Now for the most important piece of advice: Call Today to Schedule Your Appointment!

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