Helpful Guidelines

 This is the fun part! My sessions offer unlimited outfits changes so your only limitation is how fast you can change clothes. Typically I encourage you to bring a minimum of 4-5 outfits, with lots of extra accessories of course. We’ll look through everything and I’ll help you select the best ones for your session. We may not get to them all, but seeing all of your clothing choices will give me some ideas as to your style so I can give you the best portrait session experience possible. 

Try to get a lot of REST the night before your shoot. Don’t stress over it; trust me - we’re going to have a great time together! If you are getting early AM shots, I suggest applying cold compresses to your eye area for a few minutes before applying your makeup to reduce puffiness. Make sure you EAT before your session so you’re not miserably hungry. If you are bringing family or friends to your session, feed them, too! And be sure they’re aware we’ll be photographing for a couple of hours.  

Bring a variety of clothing changes to show all of your looks. Select items that range from casual to dressy. It’s a good idea to bring long-sleeves and short-sleeves, regardless of season. Same goes for long pants and jeans versus shorts and skirts. Avoid clothing with large prints, horizontal stripes, characters, logos, or writing… we are not doing a photo shoot for Hollister, Abercrombie, Pink, etc. Small prints (plaids, stripes, florals, polka dots, etc.) are great and solid colors are always a classic choice. Make sure your undergarments are neutral colored – dark colored underwear and light colored pants… not a good combination. Keep in mind my photo sessions are done on-location… usually in semi-public places. Clothing changes will be done on the fly, we will do our best to find a place to change if we have to improvise wear appropriate undergarments (camis, leggings, t-shirts, etc.) to make it easier to change in the car.  If you plan on going shopping for new clothes for your senior portraits please wear your purchases at least once before your session. Make sure it fits, flatters, and that you’re comfortable. Certain colors look best for different seasons outdoors. Spring and summer - sky blue, khaki, pale green, pink, watermelon, dark peach. Fall - Red, gold, deep orange, emerald green, and dark gree 

Don’t forget about your feet! Please coordinate your footwear with your outfit (guys… no gym shoes with dress pants!) and pay attention to the color of your socks. Girls can go barefoot in a few shots for a more playful look. Belts, earrings, scarves, necklaces, jackets, hats, sunglasses, etc... all great stuff that can quickly alter a look without completely changing clothes. 

While a little color is nice, be sure not to overdo tanning for your senior portraits. Tan lines are not attractive in pictures and if you have them it’s best to avoid outfits that show them. Fingernails - they show! If possible, get a manicure prior to your portrait session. GUYS – this goes for you, too!!!...no writing on your hands or hairbands around your wrists please! Your hair should reflect you and your own personal style. Senior portraits are not a time to try a new look. Any cut or color should be done at least a week prior to your session to ensure you look your best.

GIRLS • If  we are doing your make-up don't wear any. If not you'll want to wear your make-up a tad heavier than normal. Bring along extra powder, a brush and mascara. Wearing more mascara than normal will really bring out your eyes and allow them to ‘POP’ Don’t worry about minor blemishes as they will be corrected in the final images.

GUYS • Two words – Chap Stick! Chapped lips are not attractive and not easily corrected in Photoshop. If you have skin sensitivity make sure you shave far enough in advance of your session to avoid any redness or irritation. Don’t worry about minor blemishes as they will be corrected in the final images.  

Keep is simple and the attention on you! We don't want attention drawn to bright shiny jewelry.