Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Elements of a Great Senior Portrait



Let’s face it, as far as senior year memories go, few are as precious, or as long-lasting as the senior portrait.  For that reason, you want to make sure that it’s done professionally and as perfectly as possible.  There are a few things that, if done all together, will help to make sure that your senior portrait experience is one that will be sure to please. 

The first element of senior portrait success is the clothing that you wear.  As anyone who tunes in to the latest fashion show on Bravo could tell you, what you wear can make or break your pictures.  Make sure that the clothes you wear fit well and don’t hang off of your body.  Also, don’t wear anything that will detract from your face.  After all, the face is the most important part of the portrait.  That being said, feel free to bring articles of clothing or props that mean something to you.  Many students like to wear their letter jackets in one of the poses, or use musical instruments or sports paraphernalia to illustrate their interests and hobbies.

Another important element is a comfortable atmosphere.  You need to feel comfortable and relaxed with the photographer and the atmosphere.  Shop around for photographers that are willing to work with you and what you are looking for in your senior portraits.  If you want some outdoor poses, don’t settle for a photographer that will only work within their studio.  Go into the photo shoot knowing that your photographer will do everything they can to give you what you want. 

Taking the time to get it right is the third element of successful senior portraits.  I know that everyone has a busy schedule, especially a high school senior.  But perfection takes time and you should settle for nothing less when it comes to your lasting memories.  Make sure that you block off enough time for the photo shoot.  Don’t short change yourself and be forced to settle with pictures that you’re not completely content with.  It’s better to have extra time at the end of the shoot than to rush through and pray for something useable.  Besides, a good photographer will fill the time and will most likely get a gem of a shot in the process. 

The fourth and final element of great senior portraits has to do with the photographer you choose.  As you screen photographers—take the time and interview them as if for a job.  After all, these pictures will last a lifetime and the person taking them needs to be right for the job.—look for those who are excited about the shoot.  If the photographer isn’t excited, then they are just treating it like any other job.  That simply won’t do. 

In the end, the photographer has the power to make or break your photo shoot.  Make sure that you pick a good one that will enhance the experience and deliver to you the best portraits possible.   



Give Andrae Michaels a call today for your 2013 senior picture session.



621 West Colorado Avenue
Colorado Springs, CO 80905
(719) 434-6534

110011 E. Hampden Ave.
Denver, CO 80231
(303) 368-4458