It’s not even July and the photo studios in our area are already advertising specials on senior portrait packages. I suppose summer is prime time for getting senior pictures taken, but it seems like the school year just ended. I can’t imagine having to prepare for yearbook pictures.
Of course, I was not nearly as thrilled about getting my senior shots taken, then the majority of girls in my graduating class. For most gals, senior portraits are about as close as they will get to a modeling gig. The photo session is quite glamorous with its array of poses and backgrounds. What’s more, the shots are designed to capture the essence of the student’s personality, which means a senior girl can show off in front of the camera.
This can be good or bad.
When I took my senior portraits I wore a simple black shirt. Meanwhile, some of my classmates chose outfits featuring bright colors and busy prints, because that was what was in fashion at the time (Go 80s!). The downside of dressing to reflect the times is that you often distract from your facial features, which should be the highlight of a portrait. Low necklines and poofy sleeves should also be avoided when posing for senior pictures.
Another mistake many girls make during their photo session is to pack on the make-up. It’s never a good idea to make drastic changes to your hair or make-up before you take senior photos. Going from brunette to blonde or cutting waist length hair into a spunky bob will make your photos stand-out, but not necessarily in a good way.
Finally, if you are opting to take senior photos on-location instead of in a formal photo studio, then you should have appropriate clothing on hand for the occasion. On-location shoots also allow for the use of props, so don’t forget to bring along sports equipment if you are an athlete or a musical instrument if you are in the school band.
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