Being well prepared for you senior photo session can make the difference between average and fabulous photos.
Follow these tips and you’ll be on your way to looking your absolute best.

Mindset & Arrival

Have fun! We’re going to make you look great and you’ll have a great experience. That’s why you chose Inspired Portrait Photography

Relax. Sherry is very laid back, likes to have a great time and is easy to get along with. Plus, she will help you with posing, so there’s no pressure.

Arrive about 10 minutes early to your appointment. Showing up late means you lose camera time, and I don’t want that.

Style & Clothing

You’re unique and awesome in your own way. Follow our guidelines but be yourself in how you dress.

Be fashionable. Wear clothing that’s stylish and put a lot of thought into your choices. This is a unique opportunity and we want you to look amazing!

We give you unlimited wardrobe changes, so bring plenty of options. The more outfits we have to choose from, the better. This will give us flexibility in matching your clothing to backgrounds and the surroundings.

Group your outfits together on hangers. Make sure items are ironed and ready to go.

Plan on changing quickly. The faster you change, the more time we have to photograph and the more photo choices you’ll have later.

Make sure you’re comfortable in your clothing and that it flatters you. This will ensure that you like how you look in your photos.

If you’re self-conscious about your arms, avoid sleeveless or cap-sleeve shirts and tank tops.

Bring a variety of colors and mix the level of styles. One outfit should be traditional or classic looking, while the other can be a mix of edgy and stylish. All clothing should be items you are comfortable in.

Don’t forget to dress those feet, plan for shoes to match each outfit.

I rarely will photograph you in flip-flops. Yes, they’re comfy, but they don’t photograph well.

Hair

It is hard to know what your hair “is supposed to look like.” Make sure you let the photographer know your preferences. Better yet, bring your best friend with you for the session and he or she can help. Hair style is ultimately YOUR responsibility. Any hair changes during the session should be quick and simple so you have as much camera time as possible.

Bring hair spray, clips, pins, and whatever else is needed to keep your hair out of your eyes if it’s windy. Also bring a brush and mirror for quick hair touch-ups. I have a few products in the camera room, but everyone has their own preference.

Do not make drastic changes to your hairstyle right before your photo session.

Makeup

Makeup that is well done is one of the best preparations you can make for your session.  Even if you don’t normally wear makeup or wear very little, take the time to do it well and your photos will look their best.

Makeup should only be slightly heavier than normal. Mascara should be clean and not clumpy. Avoid makeup with an SPF because it tends to create a shine. Summer shine can be controlled by using translucent powder that knocks out shine without adding additional color.

Finger Nails

If you paint your nails, make sure they’re done well for your session. Chipped nail paint will show and distract from you. Opt for basic or natural tones.

Jewelry

Keep it simple. Big, shiny jewelry can distract from the important subject, you. If you have different jewelry for different outfits, you might put each set of jewelry in a plastic baggie and hang it on the hanger with that outfit.

All that being said, the proper jewelry can really complement your outfit. It’s nice to have a variety to choose from and it doesn’t hurt to bring numerous options with you.

Props

They’re great! Bring props that help show who you are. Some popular choices are:

• Sports equipment (soccer ball, basketball, softball bat, etc.)
• Sports uniforms
• Musical instruments
• Activity related items (dance, art, school clubs, etc.)

Glasses

Most lenses have a glare. Which with proper lighting I can usually control, The safest option is to check with your eye doctor and ask if they’ll loan you a similar pair without lenses.

Complexion

Makeup helps a lot here, but please don’t be concerned about minor breakouts. I have you covered! If your acne is more severe,  I am happy to help with some extra retouching.

Friends & Parents & Pets

Friends or parents are welcome and often can be a help. However, if they distract you, it may be best to meet them when the session is over. You’re welcome to have a couple of shots with a boyfriend, best friend, sibling, or parent at no extra charge. If you plan to bring anyone else please let me know. Animals must be brought to my attention at the time of booking.

Weather

Don’t worry about clouds because they actually even out the light and make for ideal shooting conditions. But falling rain is an issue and we will have to reschedule.

any other concerns Call sherry 507.381.8007 or email me anytime at sherry@inspiredportrait.com