How to Prepare for
Your Senior Session
Now that you’ve booked your session—yay!—here are a few tips to help you feel confident and ready for your close-up. A little preparation goes a long way, and then you can just relax and enjoy the day.
1. Complete Your Senior Questionnaire
Be sure to fill out the Senior Questionnaire that was sent to you. This helps us choose the perfect location and sets the stage for your entire session.
2. Plan Your Outfits
Choose your outfits in advance and lay them out the day before. Make sure everything is clean and wrinkle-free.
- Guys: Bring matching socks and shoes for each outfit (if one pair won’t match everything).
- Girls: Pack accessories (jewelry, scarves, hats, headbands, etc.), plus socks/tights and shoes for each look.
Pro Tip: Bring one casual outfit, one dressier option, and something that feels very “you.”
3. Props & Personal Touches
Want to show off your hobbies or personality? Bring along props like sports gear, a musical instrument, books, ballet shoes, or your skateboard.
- If you’d like your car or truck in your photos, give it a quick wash the day before.
4. Rest Up
Get a good night’s sleep before your session so you look (and feel!) refreshed.
5. Hair Prep
Get your hair cut about 1–2 weeks before your session. Avoid major changes in case you don’t love the new style.
- Girls: Ask your stylist to show you a couple of quick, easy styles for switching it up between outfits.
- Guys: Trim and clean up edges so it looks fresh.
6. Grooming & Makeup
- Guys: Shave or tidy up any stubble on your face and neck.
- Girls: Do a trial run of your makeup the week before, or consider booking a professional makeup artist. A manicure (French or neutral polish) is also a great touch—your hands will show in close-ups!
7. Don’t Stress About Breakouts
If acne pops up right before your session, don’t pick at it. I offer light photo retouching to take care of blemishes.
- Girls: A touch of concealer is fine—just don’t overdo it.
8. Practice Posing & Smiling
Take a few minutes to practice a natural smile in the mirror. You can also tell me your favorite sport, movie, or funny story ahead of time—I’ll use it to help you relax during the shoot.
9. Besties & Coordinating Outfits
If you’re including your BFF, make sure your outfits complement each other. Avoid clashing colors or overly busy patterns.
10. Bring the Vibes
Create a playlist of your favorite songs to play during your session. Music helps you relax and makes the whole experience more fun.
✨ Bonus Tips:
- Bring a little bag with touch-up items: powder, lip gloss/chapstick, a brush/comb, and extra bobby pins or hair ties.
- Drink plenty of water the day before so your skin looks fresh and hydrated.
- Don’t forget to eat a light meal before your session—you’ll need the energy!