I'm not saying there is anything wrong with a giant styrofoam '2014' prop, but what I am saying is that it's not for everybody, and if you follow this blog and you enjoy our work, it's probably not what you're looking for either.
Unlike headshots, Senior Portraits also double as a rite of passage celebrating a high schooler's last year as a young adult, before the weight of final exams, dissertations, and student loans, otherwise known as 'reality', comes crashing down. It's a lot to ask out of a 1-2 hour portrait session with a teenager who may be feeling awkward, unwieldy, and skeptical as to the importance of capturing this important transition period for posterity.
So with Senior Portraits, you have two goals, right? One is to get the shot for the yearbook and get the shot to send to Grandma and Grandpa to show them how big this kid is getting and how he's almost an adult! Second is to create an experience that allows this young adult to express who they are, what they want their high school friends (and their family!) to remember about them, and to help them feel comfortable showing what makes them unique. And you can't 'get the shot' without creating the experience and the comfort level.
Now part of this is just being good at what you do as a photographer, and also good at putting people at ease. That's a big part of it. But it wouldn't be a blog post without sharing some insight, so now let's talk about some questions I get asked frequently regarding Senior Portraits, and what you can do to help create the experience for yourself or for your teenager!
Wear something you feel comfortable and confident in:
I know what you're thinking. "But Sam! That's cheating! You gave that same advice in your headshot blog post!"
And you're right, I did. Also, good job reading my other blog posts. But I repeat it because it's good, solid advice. If you feel uncomfortable in your clothes, you're going to look uncomfortable in your clothes. Period. An exception might be in there somewhere for weddings or joyous events because you're so crazy happy that it outweighs how heavy that dress is or how hot that tux is, but when you're not talking about a special event with unparalleled levels of joy, discomfort is going to win out, every time. And it's going to show on your face.
Generally I suggest sticking with solid colors or simple patterns that don't distract from your face, but it's about what you feel comfortable and confident in. There is nothing wrong with dressing up or down, as long as you're comfortable and you look like, well, you! This client chose an outfit that was comfortable, flattering, and was very much 'her' style.
What about hair and makeup?:
In keeping with the 'be comfortable, be yourself' theme, I would caution against straying too far outside of what your normal hair and makeup routine is, for one simple reason; these pictures should look like you. It's probably not the best time to try a brand new hair color or a really drastic makeup change. Certainly dress up and get fancy to the extent you'd like to, but remember, your friends and family want to see you. This client chose to go without makeup. In her words "I've never worn makeup, and I'm not going to start now!"
Choose a location that has personal meaning to you:
Now, I don't want to stress people out. There are some teens who really don't have a specific location off the top of their head that has special meaning to them, or not one that their parents would let them get pictures taken in. (Your best friend Julie's basement doesn't count, sadly.) And that's okay! When you can, picking a location(s) that has special meaning is great, but it can also just be a type of setting you enjoy, such as a rustic setting or an urban setting. If you're not sure where to have your portraits done, I'm happy to provide suggestions based on what you're looking for! This client chose a gorgeous wooded hideaway that she'd found while hiking one day.
Do you need props?:
The short answer is no. The longer answer is, only if you want them. While I can't specifically recommend the giant foam '2014' and I don't have those laying around anyway, what I can suggest, if you're looking for ideas for props, are things that are important to you. If you play soccer, bring your soccer ball or heck, even your whole outfit! If you love photography, bring your favorite camera. If you are an avid reader, bring your favorite book! We're painting a picture of who you are and what is important to you right now, and your own personal props can be a fun way to do that! This client loved to knit, and wanted to incorporate that into some of her photos.
What about outfit changes?:
Many Senior Portrait clients choose to have a few outfit changes, but they certainly aren't necessary. Some things to consider when thinking about outfit changes are whether there will be a private place to change at the venue you choose for your photos, and what types of outfits are important to you to have represented in your pictures. For instance, a rugby player may want to bring their uniform, but certainly wouldn't want all of their photos taken in it. Bring as many outfit changes as you'd like, even if you just want them there as options! This client had her chef's uniform and also a lovely summer dress, to showcase several facets of her personality!
I'm hoping that what you take away from this is that being comfortable being yourself is the best thing that you can do to ensure great a great Senior Portrait experience, and a the best way to get results you will be happy with. Give me a holler at contact@robandsamphoto.com if you're interested in booking a session and I'm happy to help brainstorm ideas on how to let your personality shine in your pictures!
Until next time!
All my photographic love,
Sam
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