10 Tips For an Amazing Senior Photoshoot
10 tips From a Minnesota Senior photographer
Your custom senior photoshoot is your chance to hit pause on this wild, amazing chapter of your life and show off who you are right now.
Whether you’re rocking your favorite outfit, showing off your hobbies, or just having fun being your authentic self, these photos capture all the energy, growth, and dreams that make you, you. Plus, let’s be real, they’re perfect for giving your family those “proud parent” bragging rights and leveling up your Insta game. Senior photos are more than a milestone—they’re a memory you and your family will be hyped to look back on forever!
1. Choose the Right Photographer
Your photographer sets the tone for the shoot and choosing the right photographer for your senior photos is all about finding someone whose style matches your vibe and makes you feel comfortable. Start by checking out their portfolio to see if their photos align with what you’re looking for—whether you like bold, colorful shots or something more natural. It’s also a good idea to read reviews so you can get a sense of their personality and how they make their clients feel during shoots. You want someone who’s fun and easy to work with! Don’t just go for the cheapest option—make sure their packages and pricing fit your budget, but also match the quality and experience you want. Lastly, talk to them beforehand to make sure you click and discuss ideas for locations or personal touches you want to include in the shoot. A photographer who listens to your vision and makes the process enjoyable is definitely the way to go!
2. Plan Ahead
Start planning your session a few months in advance. This gives you time to secure your photographer, select outfits, and choose locations. If your schedule is packed, prioritize booking during less busy times, like early mornings or weekdays.
3. Pick Meaningful Locations
Choose spots that resonate with your personality or tell your story. Whether it’s your favorite park, a cozy coffee shop, your high school’s football field, or a vibrant urban setting, the backdrop should reflect who you are and what you love.
4. take time picking Outfits
Choosing outfits for your senior photoshoot is all about reflecting your personal style while making sure you feel confident and comfortable. Start by picking a few outfits that you love, mixing casual and slightly dressier looks to give variety to your photos. Neutral colors and timeless pieces tend to photograph well, but don’t be afraid to add a pop of color or wear something that shows off your personality—like a favorite sports jersey or a chic jacket. Avoid overly busy patterns that can distract from you, and make sure your clothes fit well and are comfortable, so you’re not adjusting them the whole time. It’s also a good idea to bring a few options to the shoot, so you have flexibility depending on the location or vibe you’re going for. Most importantly, choose outfits that make you feel like the best version of yourself!
5. Practice Posing
Practicing posing for your senior photos can help you feel more confident and natural in front of the camera. Start by practicing in front of a mirror to get a feel for what looks good and feels comfortable. Experiment with standing, sitting and walking poses. A subtle smile or a relaxed expression often works best, but feel free to try out different looks to see what feels most authentic. Don’t forget to focus on your hands too—keeping them relaxed but busy doing something like touching hair or clothes, adjusting hair etc. The more you practice, the more natural you’ll feel when it’s time for the real photoshoot!
Your photographer will guide you, but knowing your angles and what feels natural will help you feel more confident and the more confident you feel, the better you’ll look.
8. Bring Props for Personalization
Props can add a unique touch to your photos. Think about items that represent your hobbies, interests, or future plans—like sports equipment, flowers, journals, art supplies, musical instruments, books, or graduation caps.
9. Stay Relaxed and Have Fun
The best photos come from genuine expressions. Don’t stress about every pose being perfect. Laugh, smile, and enjoy the moment. It’s totally natural to feel awkward at the start of your session but if you just shake it off and laugh it off, your photos will turn out great! Just don’t get stiff.
10. Trust Your Photographer
Your photographer’s expertise will guide the session. Trust them to adjust poses, suggest locations, and tweak lighting to create the best results. Collaboration and open communication will help your senior photos turn out amazing.
Your story is bigger than words and deserves to be documented!
Hey! I’m Alyssa Lovdahl.
I’m a Minnesota based destination wedding photographer that focuses on capturing your authentic story so when you look back on your photos, the memory of your experience is as vivid and beautiful as the day it was first captured.
THIS IS YOUR STORY AND YOUR PHOTOS SHOULD AUTHENTICALLY REFLECT YOU. THE FACT THAT I GET TO CAPTURE THESE MOMENTS, STOP TIME AND HAND THEM ONTO YOU TO BE REMEMBERED FOREVER IS the sweetest tHING.