Senior Session Guide
First of all, thank you so much for finding your way here. Whether you have been recommended from a friend, found me on social media, or searched your way through seemingly hundreds of photographers to find your way here, I am so grateful for the chance to connect with you. Finding a photographer you resonate with is a journey worth taking and I am so glad you found something in my work that sparked a little light within you. Taking photos is my passion and I would love to be able to showcase your senior in this exact moment in life.
This guide is here to help you get to know me a little more and understand what the experience of working with me is like. In viewing this guide, I hope you feel that little spark shine brighter as you read about how incredible your experience has the potential to be. If that spark tends to dim out as you continue, I know there is another photographer out there who will be better suited to let your spark burn bright! I want to be sure we have the same vision for your session so you are left with both beautiful memories and timeless images that you will cherish forever.
MY PHILOSOPHY
In a nutshell: If you are looking for a photographer to pose you in a traditional sense, I am not your gal. As a lifestyle photographer I am wired to seek out what makes each individual person unique. My senior sessions tend to focus on more authentic personality with a fashion editorial vibe.
CONNECTION
The very first important thing for us to do is to establish a connection. I will do this by a video chat to discuss details about your session. I want to know things like, what you do in your free time? Sure you may play sports and I'd love to capture you enjoying the very sport you've dedicated your high school years to but that can't be EVERYTHING you love to do. It literally can be ANYTHING. I want to know who you are because these very things will help me choose locations and capturing your true self. Here is a formal list of things you may like to do to get you thinking. Maybe you are into a few of these things, non of these things, or make up for your own!
Music : Have a collection of records? Love to rock out with headphones in your ears? Do you play instruments?
Do you collect plants or like to be in nature?
reading books / poetry
Thrifting / antiquing
Love to get tea? Are you a foodie? What is your fav place to go?
Into art? Do you make art in some form?
Fishing
Try to really dive deep and be as specific as you can.
STYLING TIPS
Let’s take a deep breath before we begin! The idea of picking out a wardrobe can seem a little overwhelming. I completely understand and have put together some helpful tips to make selecting outfits easy and enjoyable. But before you go on please remember that I truly want you to feel comfortable with what you are wearing. No amount of editing or angles can change the way you feel. Stay true to your style. You may bring in as many clothing options as we can fit in. Start with your favs and leave the least favs for the ones we may not get to. If we are traveling to multiple places think about an outfit for each place. I have curated a Pinterest board specifically for clients along with a personal styling guide once booked.
1. Stick with light, pale, neutral colors - avoid fluorescent or really bright colors UNLESS you add in a pop of color. I love a strong bold red dress. What are neutral colors you ask? Brown, cream, grey, tan, olive green, sage - Earth tones…...Try to stray away from bright white. BLACK makes everyone look good!
2. Layer your clothing and jewelry to add depth and texture - think hats, vests, scarves, bow ties, belts, suspenders, etc.
3. Be comfortable - steer clear of heels or clothing that is too tight. You want to be able to move around and feel good especially out in nature.
4. Flowy dresses work beautifully on women - they show motion and move with you as opposed to staying rigid. Really anything with extra flowy fabric.
5. Plain v-neck t-shirts are always great for men - polos and collared shirts can leave guys looking a little stiff.
5. No logos or words - stay timeless by avoiding words and logos that will date the images. UNLESS YOU are totally into some band Ts or you have a fav shirt with wording bring one along as an option.
Feel free to send me messages with clothing options. I am always happy to help!
HAIR / MAKEUP
PLEASE consider these two very important things. Whether you hire a professional or do it yourself. These two elements are all part of a successful shoot. If you feel awesome, you will look awesome. I'm not talking some crazy dark makeup you aren't used to. I'm talking makeup that enhances your natural beauty for the camera. I always recommend hair to be down and flowy but feel free to straighten or curl it. If you want to put it up later in the shoot then we can do that too! People I recommend booking asap are:
POSING
Everyone is awkward in front of the camera at first and that is okay! I am here to hang out with you, have conversation - I just happen to have a camera. I will totally set you up in a position AND physically show you. But I want you to feel free to make the pose your own. If you want to move your hands or legs...whatever - DO IT. If you have ideas you want to try - I am all ears. Creating together is what makes a great shoot. I do not recommend bringing along more than one person. Typically this is mom or dad. Why? Because the more people around you, the harder it will be for you to open up and be yourself. I don't want you to feel like anyone is judging you.
FINAL NOTE
Each school sends out requirements for their yearbook. It is very important that you tell me this / send it to me so I can make sure I get these images for you.
What I really ask from you is that you really allow yourself to be just that-- yourself. I’m not here to make judgements; I’m here to capture you at your most honest self. That’s the version of you your loved ones know and that we are looking to preserve in our session.
Please, show up open. I want you to laugh wildly,, be silly, and be serious. You will never have to ask “is this okay?” because if it feels natural to you, then it is okay with me.
I cannot wait to get to know you!
-Raelyn
