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Senior year is a time of celebrating and making memories! What better way to commemorate that, than with a photoshoot!? Planning that photoshoot can be an exciting experience, but sometimes, a little intimidating, so in this blog post, we'll explore some considerations to make when preparing for your session. From popular locations to scheduling tips and wardrobe styles, let's go over what you need to know! And, just to make sure you feel ready, I'm providing a helpful checklist of items you might want to bring along to ensure you look and feel your best throughout the shoot.
Popular Photoshoot Locations:
When selecting a location for your senior photoshoot, it's essential to choose a place that reflects your personality and style. Here are some popular locations to consider:
Urban Vibes: Explore your city's downtown area, vibrant street murals, or eclectic neighborhoods for an urban-themed shoot that captures the energy of your high school years. It's important to note that some cities may require permits to use the area with a professional photographer, so keep that in mind if the location you covet is a bigger, highly concentrated area.
Natural Beauty: Embrace the outdoors with a photoshoot in a nearby park, botanical garden, or scenic location. Nature provides a stunning backdrop and allows for beautiful natural lighting. There are tons of great locations right here in NEPA! Need help picking? No worries! I can share some of my favorites when we are scheduling your shoot.
Iconic Landmarks: For a touch of grandeur, consider photographing at iconic landmarks in your area, such as historic buildings, bridges, or well-known local spots that hold sentimental value.
With any location, you'll want to ensure that you are permitted to have your photographer there. Some locations require a permit, some require a usage fee. These are things you'll want to take care of in advance so that the shoot flows seamlessly.
Optimal Times of Year:
Timing can greatly impact the overall look and feel of your senior photos. Here are a few factors to consider when scheduling your session:
Spring Blooms: Springtime offers a burst of colors with blooming flowers and lush greenery, creating a vibrant backdrop for your photos. Usually, you'll want to schedule late-May to early-June for that vibrant pop of green to really be on display!
Golden Fall: Fall brings warm tones and beautiful foliage. The changing leaves provide a picturesque setting that complements autumn fashion choices. This is a popular time of year and fills up fast with events, family portraits, and seniors so be sure to book your session in advance as not to miss out! Peak foliage is typically the second week of October in NEPA. While weekend sessions may be tough to snag, weekdays are a great option to be able to get those awesome fall photos!
Winter Magic: If you enjoy the cozy charm of winter, opt for a snowy wonderland or holiday-themed shoot. Winter can create a whimsical and magical ambiance. Choose some fun, scenic spots or pretty evergreen areas to really create some amazing shots!
Exploring Different Styles:
When it comes to senior photoshoots, there are various styles you can consider, depending on your preferences and personality. Here are a few popular options:
Classic Portraits: Timeless and elegant, classic portraits focus on capturing your personality and natural beauty. They often involve more traditional poses and backdrops. The studio is always a great option for these. The Graduate Elite Package allows plenty of time to grab some shots at the studio and then move to an outdoor setting nearby so that you can have plenty of variety.
Lifestyle Sessions: Lifestyle photography aims to capture you in your element, whether it's
engaging in a hobby, participating in a sport, or simply showcasing your everyday life. These sessions add a personal touch to your senior photos. I highly recommend taking advantage of this opportunity to really showcase what you love!
Fashion Editorial: If you have a flair for fashion, a fashion editorial-style shoot can help you
showcase your unique style and personality. It often involves trendy outfits, striking poses, and creative compositions. How often do we get to just go all in and have some fun for professional photos? MMP is ALWAYS in for some fun, creative fashion shots! Need help planning your look? We'll chat during planning to really zone in on the details.
Must-Have Items for Your Photoshoot:
To ensure you look and feel your best during your senior photoshoot, consider bringing along the following items:
Wardrobe Options: Bring a variety of outfits that represent your style, including casual, formal, and something that reflects your hobbies or extracurricular activities.
Accessories: Add visual interest to your photos by accessorizing with hats, scarves, jewelry, or props that hold sentimental value.
Touch-Up Essentials: Pack a small bag with makeup, hairbrush, hair ties, and any other touch-up essentials to refresh your look throughout the session.
Personal Items: Consider bringing sentimental objects like a favorite book, a musical instrument, or sports equipment to personalize your photoshoot and make it truly unique.
Planning your high school senior photoshoot can be an exciting and memorable experience. Work with your photographer to select the right location, timing, and style so that, together, you can create stunning images that capture the essence of this special time in your life. Remember to bring along wardrobe options, accessories, and any other essentials that will help you feel your best! And, don't be shy! It's a blast working together creating moments you'll love looking back on!