Everyone is back in school around here and we are already hitting football games and planning for homecoming and Fall formal. There was no inching into this school year around here and I imagine it was like for most of you! Once you have teenagers in the house, life is like BOOM! Go Get It!
But, in all transparency, it has been fun! It has been fun to hear amazing kids plan for awesome events, feel the excitement of a high school football game, and see the new student designs on the big painted Rock outside our high school. And while all of these lifetime memories are forming for the teens in my life, as a mom, I want to want to slooooooow down time. These moments are such fond, energetic, life-building memories in my memory files. I want my kids to enjoy them as much as I did.
And so…. lucky for my kids (hahaha…they actually think it is a bit irritating sometimes), I take lots and lots of pictures. And, that’s what we are here to talk about today! Pictures. But, not just any pictures:: Senior Portraits! It is a fair question asked to both teens and parents of teens:: Have you ever shared moments at your mom’s or grandmother’s home looking at the portraits hung on the wall or framed around the house? Or, have you sat down together and looked through an old year book or photo album together?
It doesn’t matter how old you are…that is a fun, fun thing to do together.
When I preach about Senior Portraits, I know I am preaching two separate experiences to the Graduating Senior and that Senior’s parents. But, it all boils down to the same desire- great pictures that reflect the young adult, the time of life that they are in, and the road they have set ahead for themselves. They are IMPORTANT. And, they should be fun. So, let’s do it.
Moms:: What dates are available? What are you favorite locations? What do we do incase of poor weather? Can her dad and I be in a few?
Graduating Senior:: ……..WHAT AM I GOING TO WEAR????!
Haha! I get it! Every. Single. Time. I have to plan for a styled shoot of myself or family- that is my biggest question, too! What will we wear. Well- here is the great news! You can’t really mess up on a clothing choice when it comes to Senior Portraits. But, there are a few thoughts to keep in ind that will make it a little easier.
Consider The Location
To help create images that make sense and feel good, planning to wear clothing that fits the feel of your chosen location will make things flow more smoothly. For example, if you know you have chosen to work on a farm with neat antique farming equipment, rustic barn doors, and a run through a gorgeous flower field; high heels and a long formal gown may not make the best choice. But, if we will be working in downtown Knoxville bring that gown, high heels, and some glamorous earrings!
Bring More than One Outfit
One of the greatest parts about Senior Portraits is that these portrait sessions are typically one-on-one, leaving all of the shooting time for you! I always suggest bringing 2-3 clothing choices: totally fun, a little more formal, and something that is your favorite. We can usually find time to make the clothing switches- giving you more photo options to select from in the end! Win-win!
Plan Ahead
I am a creative. So there are no stones being casted on those of you who “plan last minute!” Haha. I get it! I don’t necessarily “procrastinate” when I’m planning what will be worn for a shoot. But, I definitely wait until the Spirit (or, perfect outfit 😂) moves me to make my clothing choices. But, here is the thing: If we do procrastinate, we are typically piecing things together at the last minute which adds stress to your game. And, don’t feel like you have to plan ahead on your own. Call me. Text me. Let’s plan together. I want your ideas. I want to know you and what you want from your images. If you have a plan and I have a plan- we can’t go wrong.
Select a Color Palette
My most helpful self-used tip: Pick a Color Palette and choose your wardrobe choices within that pallet. This will keep you on-track and help create a finished and photo-perfect look at the end. And, remeber- you can have 2-3 different color palettes for your 2-3 separate clothing choices.
Make This Totally You
The number one concern I run into with any type of portrait is clothing choices that do not reflect to individual wearing the clothes. 🙁 Yes, sure! All of those Pinterest, and Instagram, and VSCO images are amazing!! I love that cool hat, rocking boots, and wild hair style…on that person. But, is that comfortable for you? Incase you have not been told today- You Are Fabulous! Let these images completely embrace you. No stuffy portraits! In fact, this is your opportunity to have a lot of fun! Choose outfits that are you…and, maybe one that is you + a little flair 😉
Add to It
Sports? Instruments? Games? Hobbies?? If so, showcase them throughout your senior portraits by utilizing props. Grab that football, play that guitar, or bring along some books, a keyboard, your cell phone, a chess board! I don’t care what…If it says something about you…Bring It! And, add some personalization to your images.
Guys! Senior Portrait 2019-2020 season is here! There are a few warmer September dates left, but I am fully booking Fall 2019 Senior Portraits Knoxville, Chattanooga, Johnson City, and Nashville now. My spots are limited. And, they are guaranteed to be awesome.
Call, email, text, PM, DM. I’m around and would love to get you scheduled.
Until Next Time~
Sarah Keenan, Westland Farms Studio Knoxville
