This is the year to celebrate! You have worked so hard for thirteen years (and to be perfectly honest, so have your parents!) so now it’s time to document this huge accomplishment! Here are three quick tips to make your session all that you want it to be!

1. COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER!

We can’t read your mind! If your photographer sends a questionnaire, fill it out completely and get it back to her quickly! If you have an an person or phone consultation, tell her everything you are dreaming of! The better your photographer knows you, including your personality, interests, hobbies, etc, the more she will be able to tailor your session to you. Even if you think it sounds silly, or crazy, just say it! We might just be able to incorporate it into the session!

2. PREPARE IN ADVANCE.

I hope procrastination isn’t your middle name! Don’t wait until the night before to go shopping or figure out your hairstyle. Give it some thought and preparation weeks in advance. Pull together the entire outfit – not just the dress, but the shoes, the hair pieces, the undergarments, the layers, the jewelry, the make up etc. Have fun with this and get together every last detail for each outfit ahead of time. TRY THEM ON! It might look great on the hanger, but if you don’t feel comfortable in it, then don’t wear it! Feel confident and in love with your choices!

3. VARY YOUR OUTFIT STYLES.

Teens like to be trendy, and that is fine for one outfit, but balance that with something that’s a classic – something that will stand the test of time! A few years before my own senior year, in the early 90’s the hairstyle was crazy huge bangs with about a bottle of hairspray! I can almost guarantee that the daughters and granddaughters of seniors who got their photos taken during that time don’t even notice their mom’s pretty face, but just all the crazy hair! Stick with something a little more neutral, and you’re photos will have a timeless look (and your mom will love them!)

Have fun preparing for your session! We have more tips like those above in the Kelly McMullin Photography Style Guide. Email for your copy!