THE SENIOR EXPERIENCE

It’s finally THAT time! Your Senior year! You’ve waited a long time for this, you’ve worked hard and now it’s time to celebrate YOU! It’s a time you will remember forever, full of momentous events including your last first day of school, the last high school football game you attend, your last chorus concert, your senior prom, etc. It’s a year of closing the door on one chapter while preparing for the next. A year filled with milestones and being on the cusp of something great, your future! By documenting with professional photography, you will have forever captured who you are, RIGHT NOW.

Your senior portrait experience is all about YOU. I want the final prints you hold in your hand or hang on your walls to reflect who you are at this moment in time. Its all about your style now, the sports you are involved in, the job you hold, the books you read, the instruments you play … who you are right now.

Your session with Tish OConnor Photography will be an experience. It will start upon booking. We will be in contact regarding outfit choices, accessories and locations. Feel free to send me texts or emails of ideas you have or questions about clothing choices. I want your session to reflect who you are and make it a fun, exciting experience you will remember forever.

 

PREPARING FOR YOUR SESSION

 

1. Bring a variety of looks. Typically 2-3 outfits work best. You can bring an extra if you’re uncertain or just can’t decide. I tell my seniors to think about these types of categories: 

comfy + casual (everyday)
edgy + urban 
chic + preppy
sports uniform + sporting gear
semi-dressy outfit or cocktail dress 
future college clothing + gear

2. Be fashionable, but be sure to stay true to your own unique style. Pick outfits you feel comfortable in,  those that match your own style. This is a special opportunity, so plan ahead and put some thought into your choices. And feel free to mix it up. Rock a super casual outfit like cutoffs and a cute graphic tee. Add a hat and sunglasses for some extra fun. And be sure to bring a dressier look. Add some strappy heels to your favorite jeans or bring a favorite dress or two for your change of outfit.

2. Bring layers! Fall is the perfect time for sweaters, jackets, scarves, etc. Layers add dimension and texture to your photos, so mix it up in your outfit choices. Ladies, you can also layer with a nice pair of boots.

You can bring layers for spring or summer photos as well. A cute wrap, poncho, sweater or jean jacket to wear or even tie around your waist can give a new look to an outfit.

3. Accessorize! Jewelry can add a nice statement and pop to your outfit. Don’t be afraid to bring along different jewelry to match each outfit. Think layered necklaces, watches, bracelets and earrings. Guys and girls both can include a favorite hat or pair of sunglasses for a different look.

Want to add something extra? Bring props that are special to you. Have a pet, feel free to bring them along for a few shots. Do you play an instrument? Bring it. Paint or draw? Bring in your best work or a sketchbook to draw on in a photo. Skateboard? Dance? Sports!? Bring your uniform, bat, ball, helmet, glove, pom poms or letterman jacket. Want to stop by Dairy Queen and incorporate your favorite ice cream cone into your session? Smoke bombs and balloons are also fun to work with. The possibilities are truly endless – just think about who you are and what you like. I would LOVE to work that into your session!

4. I can’t stress enough how important your choice of shoes is. Fall is the season for rocking heels, boots and booties. Summer and Spring are perfect for sandals and strappy heels. You can even throw a pair of trendy rainboots on for a different look. Want a cool urban vibe? How about some leather high tops or a cool pair of Chucks or Vans!

Guys, I don’t expect you’ll be as excited about shoes as the gals, however, shoes can totally make your outfit and tie everything together. You can bring both dressier and casual shoes.

5. Don’t be afraid to bring a dressy outfit or two. Ladies, how many opportunities do you have to wear your favorite dress?  Guys, throw on a tie/bowtie, a cool sweater or jacket.

Want to wear your prom dress? Awesome! We can determine ahead of time the perfect location to get the look you want.

6. Know where you are heading to college? Bring along a t-shirt, sweatshirt, pennant or banner from your school. Spring sessions are also a great time to incorporate your cap and gown. 

7. Add some color! Definitely bring some black or solid colors, but also bring something vibrant for some fun. Your favorite red or pink Converse, maybe apply some red lipstick or a throw on a yellow jacket – something that can add a splash of color to make your photos POP!

Still not sure? Bring along 1 or 2 extra outfits and accessories. Sometimes seeing your outfit choices at the location of your session can help you decide.

8. Ladies, don’t neglect your fingernails. During your session, your hands will be in many of your photos, framing your face, holding your jacket or just on a wall. Make sure they look the way you want them to. You don’t want to distract with chipped nails. If you paint your nails, please be sure they are done neatly. Stay away from crazy patterns or bright colors that may clash with different outfits. A French manicure, wearing a light or neutral color or even nails without any color photograph best.

9. Ladies, wear nude and appropriate undergarments – if you wear a strapless top or dress, be sure to bring a strapless bra option!

10. Guys, remember to shave or trim up facial hair. 

11. Iron clothing and put each outfit on a hanger. Please don’t stuff your outfits in a bag.

** IMPORTANT**

GUYS, remember to take your cellphone and your wallet out of your pockets prior to the start of the session.

LADIES, those ponytails on your wrist … remember to take those off as well.

While you may choose to have professional makeup and/or hair, it is not required for my sessions. However, if you are thinking about getting a new hair style, plan to do it several weeks prior to your session or wait until after. Your senior portraits are not the time to try a new style. Play with your hairstyles a few days before the photoshoot to get the look you want in advance. 

Guys and haircuts … If you want to get a hair cut before the session, make sure to do it at least a week in advance. This will give your hair time to relax look a bit more like it does day to day.  

+  Below is a link for Seniors | What to Wear on my Pinterest page . Click over if you want a little inspiration for your custom Senior Session!