you're almost there!
If you're reading this, that probably means you're about to start your final year of high school - and I am so excited for you! I'm guessing you've probably spent some time up to now daydreaming about what you might wear for your senior photos, but now the time has come to *actually* land on some wardrobe choices. You're not alone if that thought comes along with some degree of freezing up with indecision. Not to worry - give this guide a quick read and you'll be on your way to crafting the perfect wardrobe in no time.
Senior photo styling tips
1. Pre-Planning is Key: Try to have 2-3 looks picked out at least two weeks before your session. Our goal is to have your session be as fun and stress-free as possible, and trust me when I say it's hard to look and feel your best when you're scrambling in a last-minute effort to figure out what to wear (ever looked through your closet in anguish that you have nothing to wear and/or nothing that goes together? Let's avoid that feeling when it comes to heading out the door for your senior photos!)
2. Keep it Simple: Try sticking with solids or simple patterns in colors you'd normally wear. Try to avoid things like in-your-face logos, words, overly-busy prints, or loud graphics, as these will all distract attention from your face (which is the real star of the show). If you want to add dimension and visual interest, consider choosing something with textured fabric. Textures look great on camera and can add dimension without distraction.
3. Keep it Comfortable: If you see a style you love but you're not quite sure you can pull it off, I invite you to consider holding off on that look for your senior session. I want you to wear something that makes you feel comfortable and confident, and, ultimately, reflects who you are and the way you see yourself on a day-to-day basis.
4. Consider your Color Scheme: If you normally wear super bright colors we can definitely work with that! That said, keep in mind that intensely-bright/neon colors will reflect onto your skin, which we ideally want to avoid. Also try to avoid flesh-toned neutrals similar to your skin tone, as these can dominate the image and make you appear washed-out. I usually recommend sticking with earth-toned hues (as long as that fits your usual vibe) and keeping your location in mind to find contrasting colors. (Will we be in an area with lots of grass & trees? Rusty oranges will look great. Somewhere near water? Mustard yellow will look awesome against the blue! Is your session in the fall? Muted, slate blue will help you stand out from all the orange.)
5. Remember to Accessorize!: Accessories like hats, scarves, and jewelry can all help to polish off your look. You can also add textured layers for more dimension (like layered tops or jackets in the fall, or adding a sheer cardigan during the summer months).
6. Use your Clothing to Highlight your Favorite Features: Love your legs but not your arms? Consider shorts and a top with long or exaggerated sleeves. Love your eyes? Consider a complimentary color to help them stand out. And, in general, try to think about the silhouette your outfit creates - try on your outfit and imagine the shape it would create if it were a solid cutout. Consider mixing tighter tops with baggier pants, or vice-versa.
7. Hair and Makeup Notes: It's easy to get sucked in on Pinterest finding all the latest hair and makeup trends you've been wanting to try, but it's best to keep the experimentation to a minimum for your senior session. We want your photos to represent you. If you plan to style your hair, play around with styles about a week or so in advance to achieve the look you want. If you plan to cut and/or color your hair, try to work that in at least a week before your session so you have a chance to grow into it. If you usually wear makeup you might want to amp up the coverage a little bit, but don't overdo it. Also keep in mind that glitter and/or shimmery makeup products tend to look uneven when photographed and are best avoided. And regardless of whether you wear makeup, bring powder to help with touchups during the session!
8. Touch up Those Nails: If you wear polish, make sure it's freshly applied and clear of chipping or peeling (and even if you don't, make sure your nails are trimmed and clean before heading to your session!)
I am so excited to work with you! If you have any questions about your wardrobe, email me anytime at info@mirandameltonphotography.com.
Cheers,
Miranda
