As you prepare for your upcoming senior session with me, it’s handy to plan ahead. Many senior believe that simply scheduling the shoot is the most important part, but that’s not where the preparation stops! Of course, getting a date on our books is important, but there are so many other things you can be doing ahead of time to make your session smooth and stress-free. I’ve put together a general timeline to help you prepare and make sure your hair, makeup, and preparations are done with plenty of time to spare. Depending on when you book with me, I know this timeline may be longer or shorter, but this can serve as a guide.
Six months before your photoshoot: It’s best to select and book your senior photographer several months before your session. Although I accept bookings closer to the date you may choose, it may not be your optimal timeframe or the date you really wanted. As soon as you decide to have senior photos done, be sure to contact and book your senior photographer (hopefully me!) to get your name on our schedule. We recommend booking as early as possible.
Three months before your photoshoot: Establishing a consistent skincare routine can make a big impact on the way your skin looks in your images. These days, TikTok and Instagram have so many reels and tutorials on how to do your hair and makeup that many young ladies opt to do it themselves. Whether you are choosing professional hair and makeup or doing it yourself, skincare lays the foundation for beautiful images. If you don’t already have a good routine, all you need is a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF that you wear daily. It’s okay if these are not fancy or the most expensive, trendiest items. You just need to get into a consistent routine that works for your skin. Trying things out several months before your shoot makes sure that you won’t be breaking out/dealing with redness during the time of your session.
This is also the time to begin purchasing items for your wardrobe, or trying on things in your existing wardrobe. It never hurts to borrow big ticket items like dresses or jackets, if you have willing friends or family members to loan them, or if you try a service like Rent the Runway. Renting items can help you build a nicer, more expensive wardrobe for your session. This is also a good time to begin having things altered if needed (hemlines, etc).
One to two months before your photoshoot: If you are doing your own hair, getting your hair as healthy and shiny as possible is ideal. Keep it freshly trimmed, conditioned, and shiny (and add a keratin product if necessary for extra oomph!). Again, if you are doing your own makeup, doing some trial runs is a smart idea. Have a friend take some snapshots of you in natural light, to make sure you like the way it photographs. Try on all your wardrobe with shoes and undergarments, to be sure you don’t need to special order anything or choose different outfits.
Decide what prints and products you may want, and begin asking friends and family members if they want certain products. Measure walls or display areas, and decide if there are things you need by a certain deadline (yearbook, graduation photos?) and jot those dates down. Be sure to ask me any questions you may have, so we can both be prepared.
The week before your session: It’s almost time! Steam and put together your outfits in a safe place away from spills or pets. Finalize accessories like jewelry or hair accessories, and put them together with your outfits. Decide what makeup touch-ups you may want, and begin setting those items in a dedicated place. Have a parent or friend double-check all your outfits and necessary items with you, so that you can feel confident and prepared!
The day of your session: On the day of your photoshoot, start by applying a light moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and sunscreen to protect it, even if you’ll be indoors. Style your hair as planned, using a bit of hairspray to hold the look without stiffness. Before putting on your outfit, wear loose clothing to avoid skin marks, and do a quick mirror check to ensure everything is in place. Apply your makeup, focusing on enhancing your natural features, and bring touch-up products like lipstick, powder, and blotting papers. Relax, communicate any ideas or concerns with me, stay hydrated, have a light snack, and arrive ready to have fun!
