It’s that time of year when the new class of Seniors are getting ready to enter their final year of High School! It’s a very exciting time with lots of really cool milestones ahead. The kickoff to all of it is getting your Senior Portraits scheduled! I LOVE Senior portraits!! It is a really fun experience for everyone.

To help you get ready, I’ve created a fun guide for your big photo shoot day! Enjoy!

A Guide to Getting Ready for your Senior Portrait Session

Tip 1: Selecting Outfits

Do you ever wonder how you decide what to wear on photo shoot day? Of course you do! It's an important day and you want to dress your best. The key to selecting outfits for Senior Portraits is to think classic! You want to choose 3-4 outfits that are classically stylish. You want to be able to look back 10 or 20 years from now and not be too dated. Good fashion never goes out of style!

I recommend picking a casual, business casual, and dressy outfit. Casual meaning what you are most comfortable wearing on a daily basis, business casual is dressing up that casual look slightly and dressy would be a more formal outfit ie. dresses, slacks, button down shirts etc.

Ladies- Bring a few layering items such as a cute cardigan, flowy sweater, blazer, or denim jacket to change your look slightly without actually having to change completely. An example of this would be a pretty summer dress that can also be worn with a layer to change up your look quickly. A dressy top with jeans and sandals is a classic and comfortable look as well… you could then switch into your favorite converse, swap tops and voila, another great outfit!

Gentleman- Polos or a classic plain colored T-shirt paired with jeans is a casual and stylish outfit. To dress it up a bit, pair a button down shirt with slacks or jeans and you’ll look great! You can also bring along a sports coat, or tie (bow tie for bonus points!!) to dress up any look.

Tip 2: Be True to YOU!

There's nothing worse than wearing something uncomfortable am I right? I hate getting dressed up in something I would never wear because I always end up feeling awkward and stiff. I also hate when someone else tries to tell me what to wear… So here’s the part where I say be true to your own style!

Pick clothing that is comfortable, yet classically stylish. It's really fun to get dressed up and it definitely adds to the excitement of the day. Clothing is how we show the world our unique style and it should reflect your personality. Whatever your preferred look, just go with it. Pick items that you know you look good in and feel great in.

With that said… be sure to take time to plan this out. If you know you need a fresh white shirt, or that your dress will need to be ironed before the big day, make some time to round up everything you’ll need. You’ll want to look and feel your best on photo shoot day! Your photos will come out so great if you take a little extra time beforehand to prep :)

Tip 3: Accessorize Baby!

This is my favorite part of putting together an outfit! Accessories are a fun and easy way to elevate your look in seconds. It is also a great way to tie in your unique style! Think necklaces, earrings, fancy watches, scarves, blazers, denim jackets, or ties. You can even bring along a hat... like a fun summer straw hat or a Panama style...scally caps, berets...have fun with it!

Oh! And don't forget about your shoes!! Shoes are essential in completing an outfit. You may even want to bring a few different pairs. Boots, sandals, Converse, Vans, pumps- you get the idea right?

Pro Tip: Add a Personal Touch!

Bringing along accessories like a letterman jacket or items that represent your interests or hobbies are also encouraged! I love to incorporate details that make you who you are! This is a great way to show off your unique style and personality while adding to your overall look. Check out the photos below for some inspiration from the Class of 2018!

Tip 4: HAVE FUN!

Okay so the hard part is over, you are here and you look amazing! You put together fantastic outfits for your very own photo shoot! Congratulations!! Now let the FUN begin!

I LOVE what I do so when you get to photo shoot day, let me take care of the rest. I will make sure to pose, adjust, and pay attention to the details so that your images turn out great. You don't have to worry about a thing. My number one priority is making you feel at ease in front of the camera. I like to tell bad jokes (duh!) to break the ice and you’ll likely see me trip over something making it very easy to get a natural laugh.  I also bring snacks, water, bug spray, hairspray... I got you covered! Just relax, be yourself and have fun... it's going to be great, I promise!!

Pro Tip- Have a best friend you want to bring along?? Let’s plan to do a shoot together then! I can photograph 2-3 seniors back to back while also sneaking in lots of fun friend pics for free! This is the only time you’ll get to do this so let’s make it memorable!

Ready to book a senior portrait session? Head over to the contact page or simply email me at jennifer@jenniferbridgephotography.com. Can't wait to work with you!!