Don’t Make These Mistakes When Taking Senior Portraits

The end of the semester is just around the corner, and many high school seniors are taking their senior portraits to capture the final moments before graduation. Before sitting down in front of a camera, make sure you’re not making these common mistakes many people make when taking high school senior pictures.

Mistake #1: Wearing unflattering clothing.
Colors, fabrics, and the silhouettes of your clothing all contribute to the look and feel of your senior portrait. Wearing the wrong clothes can ad up to 40 pounds, wash out your skin tone, and dramatically reshape your body. Wear clothing that draws attention to the face, and that will show up bright and bold, no matter what backdrop is set behind you. Darker shades often give a more slimming effect. Bold patterns and stripes can be very distracting. Choose clothing that is comfortable, clean, and wrinkle-free.

Mistake #2: Forcing or faking a smile.
Did you know the human face has over 52 muscles? Be careful not to flex them too much! The most important thing to remember is to be relaxed for your senior photo. Think about something that genuinely makes you happy, whether it’s family, friends, or a funny memory. Don’t clench your teeth or stretch your lips across your face into a false smile. You want your smile to be soft, natural, and genuine. Try smiling with your lips closed and parted to get different a different look and feel.

Mistake #3: Picking the wrong photographer.
Though many schools provide an opportunity to get your senior portraits taken with a hired photography company, you are often shuffled into a gymnasium or hallway on a specific day with a bunch of other students, and hurried in and out with little instruction from the photographer. You may feel crowded, rushed, and not in the mood to take a photo. If you schedule an individual senior photo shoot session with an experienced photographer, you are more likely to feel comfortable, relaxed, and ultimately happier with the results. Find a photographer that will work around your schedule, who is happy to pick up the camera when you feel you look your best. Pick a date, time, and location that suits you and helps your photographer bring out the best in you.

For more information on professional portrait photography, contact the experts at In Focus Studios. Our experienced photographers can help you with all your professional photography needs! Call today for a free consultation!