Senior Photographs

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When we were in high school, most of us took our senior photos at a studio with our cap and gowns and props provided by the photographer. So when it came time for my postgraduate senior pictures, I was lost on where to begin. So, today I bring you what I learned about the ART of senior portraits.

1. Plan your photo shoot

One month before usually although three weeks is okay, too. Where would you like your senior portraits to be taken? I chose my school campus since it’s at a mission, has beautiful signs, is usually low in traffic, and there are gardens with flowers everywhere. Other options I considered were the rose gardens in San Jose and nearby parks. The location depends on the overall feel you’d like for your photos: Do you want professional with heels? (Recommend somewhere with pavement here, of course). Taking photographs in a city setting might be more difficult, though, since it is usually buzzing with people. Do you want casual? Parks with beautiful scenery work well here. Is there a location you grew up in and love to go to (such as the Santa Cruz boardwalk, for example)? This might be a great for catharsis and familiarity. Have in mind any particular spots you definitely want a photo at. For me, the University sign was a must. Visiting beforehand is really helpful. Also, if you’ve chosen a good photographer, he or she will help find locations with the best lighting and that will be most flattering for you. You might want to take photos in a studio. Whichever you choose, make sure there’s a level of comfort for you there!

Next, choose a photographer.

• Do all your research. I preferred an independent photographer, but some studios have fixed packages and prices you may want to consider as well.
• Know specifically what you want in terms of prints, frames, price range you are willing to pay, and dates you are available. This will make life much easier for you and for the photographer (My approach was to give a price range I could pay and what I wanted, then asked the photographer if that was doable).
• Have questions written down ahead of time before you meet. For example, what time will you do the photo shoot? (I did evening around 6pm; wasn't too bright and was cool enough for spring time)
• Before you sign anything: Does the photographer want a deposit to secure your spot? Is there a contract, invoice, license user's agreement?
• It's important you are comfortable with the person who is photographing you, that they are amiable, flexible and honest.

Added note: if you would like your hair, makeup and/or nails done professionally, book them early as well.
2. Aesthetics (Outfits, Make Up, Hair, Jewelry)

Now on to the part that was hardest for me: my outfits and props. I recommend not making any drastic changes before your photo shoot. Give yourself at least two weeks to get used to the change. I decided to highlight my hair blonde (after having brown hair) for over a year ONLY a week before my shoot. Luckily, I got used to it, but can’t imagine if I hadn’t. It’s all about being comfortable in your own skin! If you want your make up and hair styled, you can ask your artist ahead of time to practice on you. I did my hair and make up on my own. That’s always good, too!

The following tips are adapted from http://www.mjmstudios.biz/graduationportraits/graduationphototips.html, which was the most helpful site for me when figuring out my aesthetics:

• "Ladies: Simple is best. Avoid heavy make-up and glitter. A more natural look will provide the best results. Bring loose powder to keep your face shine free. Even for girls who don't wear makeup putting just a little on will enhance your photos. Wearing a little concealer, powder for shine, light blush and mascara will make a big difference and keep the look natural. A V-neck shirt or tank top worn underneath the provided grad gown will work perfectly, and a pendant or a string of pearls will look very elegant. Ensure your hands and fingernails look clean and tidy, as they will be photographed as well.
• Guys: Please arrive at your session in a white or light colored dress shirt and tie. Make sure that you shave carefully on the morning of your sitting or the night before. Take the time to make sure your hands and fingernails are clean.
• Avoid shirts with logos and distracting patterns, we want the focus on you!
• Medium to dark shades photograph best. White and light colors tend to make people appear washed out on camera."

Try to arrange or buy your outfits at least one week ahead of time, so you can try them on, accessorize, and pair shoes with them. I chose to wear two outfits: a skirt and tank top underneath my cap and gown (you don’t want your top to show at your collar though), and a black dress afterwards. Depending on your setting and how casual you’d like to go, you can wear jeans or pants and a top. Choose clothes that are flattering for you, and in your normal of what you’d actually wear. What color looks good on you? Brightens your face? Brings out your eyes? Not a time to go out of your comfort zone.

Do you want pictures in your cap and gown? I had to borrow mine from a peer. Usually this will be the case since we don’t receive our gowns until right before our ceremony. I ended up not having a tassel. Plan ahead! Is there a sash involved? Make sure you know how to put it on. There are some Youtube videos (here's one: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jtONqQPp-xI). Check the wind advisory for the day if your shoot is outdoors. You might want to pin your cap on ahead of time and take those photos first if it’s super windy. No jewelry with my cap and gown since I had a hood. With no hood, you can wear a dainty necklace and/or a bracelet. Make sure you have no hair bands around your wrist. With my second outfit, I chose to wear a pink statement necklace (from brand: BaubleBar) to bring pop to the black underneath.



Wear under garments that are comfortable. Try not to have panty lines or bra straps show. Iron your clothes and have them ready the night before. Are there any props you would like to use? Some people bring the wrapped diploma. Others will bring a soccer ball, basketball, racket, books, etc as meaningful to their lives.

3. The day of

• Bring a pair of comfortable shoes if you’re walking around in heels. You don’t want your feet blistery. Eek!
• Bring a compact mirror, tissue, extra make up (lipstick definitely!), make up remover - sometimes with movement and touching of your face in poses, your make up might ruin. Tissue or a small towel helps if you sweat. Be prepared!
• Bring bobby pins, or nice hair ties if you want to put your hair up.
• Ask a close friend or family member to drop you off/pick you up if possible.
• Sometimes we can tighten our muscles and faces when we are nervous. Have a joke you find absolutely hilarious you can say in your head to loosen up.
• Bring water!

I can add pictures from my photo shoot with http://www.soskiphoto.com/portfolio later :)
Most of all, have fun, be you, and get some good sleep the night before. This is an important and very exciting time of your life!