Senior Portrait Tips in Elk Grove, CA.

 
how to avoid awkward senior portraits

ā€œI really hope that my senior photos look awkward.ā€ Said NO senior ever!  It is my job as your senior portrait photographer to make sure you look natural and amazing for your senior portraits.  You may not know how to pose or what expression to have on your face, but that is ok.  Iā€™m going to guide you through the entire session and to make sure you come away with awesome photos.  However, here are a few tips on how to make sure that your portrait session doesnā€™t turn out awkward.

 

1. Trust your photographer: 

It may surprise you, but this is a crucial element to a successful senior portrait session. While it's natural to feel nervous about being photographed, especially if it's your first time working one-on-one with a photographer, it can be even more daunting if you're unsure about what to expect, how to pose, or what to do in front of the camera. However, remember that you've hired a professional to capture images you'll cherish and proudly share with loved ones. As a senior photography specialist with over 15 years of experience, I'll be there to guide and coach you every step of the way, ensuring that every detail is taken care of. Even if you feel self-conscious or uncertain about the poses or location, trust me and my expertise. I promise that your photos will turn out amazing, and you'll be thrilled with how you look.

2. Communicate with your Photographer:

To ensure a successful and satisfactory photo session, it is crucial to have open and clear communication with your photographer. To facilitate this, I typically provide a questionnaire for clients to fill out before the session. This helps me understand your preferences and plan the session accordingly. Make sure to communicate your expectations for the portraits, including any features you want highlighted or avoided. If you have any props you would like to incorporate, let me know. Additionally, if you have seen any photos that inspire you, feel free to share them with me. Remember, I am here to help you achieve the vision you have for your photos. Do not hesitate to reach out to me by phone or email if you have any questions or want to discuss your session further.

3. RELAX and Be Present in the Moment:

Being present in the moment and relaxing is a crucial tip for your senior session. This is an exciting moment that you have probably been looking forward to for some time, but it is also normal to feel nervous. As the saying goes, "the eyes are the window to the soul," and your eyes can reveal a lot about how you are feeling. If you are lost in your own thoughts, overthinking things, or feeling nervous, it will show in your photos. Instead, trust the process and as Elsa poignantly stated, "Let it Go!" To truly enjoy your senior session and feel more comfortable, try to be present in the moment. Don't worry about your hair, makeup, or how you are standing. I will make sure you look great!  Just focus on relaxing and being your genuine self. Enjoy the fun, the beauty of where you are, and the amazing experience that you have waited years for. Let's talk, engage, laugh, and create a beautiful memory that you can celebrate through pictures. I am fully committed to you, and your senior session will be personalized just for you. Let's make it happen!

4. Have Fun:

"Let loose and be yourself!" This is your time to shine, to let your personality come out, and to embrace your silly side. Don't worry about looking foolish or acting goofy - sometimes a ridiculous pose is just what you need to loosen up! Remember that this isn't a typical, stuffy photo shoot. Your senior session is all about celebrating who you are at this moment in time, from your hobbies and interests to your high school achievements. The more you allow yourself to have fun and relax, the more you'll show off your true self - and that's exactly what everyone wants to see! To help create a fun and relaxed atmosphere, I always play music during my senior sessions. So come prepared to have a fun time!

Having an amazing senior portrait session shouldn't be a nerve-wracking, scary, or awkward experience. By adhering to the above tips, you can ensure an enjoyable senior portrait session and walk away with stunning images.

If you're considering booking a senior portrait session or require additional details, please feel free to contact me through my website's contact page. I would be delighted to send you my Senior Portrait Welcome Guide, which includes comprehensive information on pricing, packages, booking, locations, and more.

To see other tips for Senior Portraits check out below:

woman photographer headshot holding camera close to face
 
Shawn Spencer

Iā€™m a Portrait Photographer Servicing Elk Grove California and the greater Sacramento area.

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