Being in front of the camera as an adult can be a scary idea, and it’s probably even scarier for a teenager to fathom. Don’t fret! This should be a fun and memorable experience for your soon-to-be graduate. A few tips to prepare for this photo session can go a long way. Your senior may even want to take more photos in the future!
Schedule Your Session in Advance
Don’t wait until the last minute to get a session on your photographer’s books. This will give you a better chance of getting a date and time that works best for your teen. Fall is beautiful with the changing colors of the trees. Those dates tend to get book up quicker than other seasons.
Bring More Than One Outfit
Your teenager likely won’t want to take his or her senior pictures in one stuffy outfit. Make a compromise to allow them to bring an outfit that matches their style so they feel comfortable and the photos can show who they truly are. Most high schools don’t distribute caps and gowns to students until the week of graduation, so maybe find a friend or prior graduate to borrow these items for pictures.
Pick a Location that Matches Your Graduate’s Taste
New Mexico is filled with beautiful scenery. The pink Sandias at sunset can make a bold statement for photos. Maybe your graduate is more urban and wants a downtown vibe with the cars passing by? The sky is the limit with location ideas in our Land of Enchantment.
Bring a Personal Item
Not all seniors choose to bring a personal item with them to photos, and that’s totally ok! But these items could highlight their interests and involvement in school: anything from an instrument to a sports item to a letterman jacket. You can use them as a prop to signify what achievements were made through the high school years.
And remember, have fun!
This tip is easier said than done. Coming from a photographer, I am not a fan of being in front of a camera. Make sure you find a photographer who knows their way around a camera and can make your graduate smile. Enjoy this moment, mom, and congratulations to your graduate!
