Let’s be real. The Office characters are completely themselves.. and we love them for it.
Michael Scott bought himself a Best Boss Ever mug. Andy sings a cappella ALL THE TIME. Dwight’s a full-time beet farmer, Angela’s a complete cat lady, Jim plays Second Life, and I’m pretty sure Creed’s on the run from the law. But do we like them any less for that?
No…it’s their quirks that make the Dunder Mifflin characters into the lovable characters we root for! We wouldn’t want them to be like everybody else…we want them to be themselves. And that’s why The Office is so successful. Somehow, it’s been able to show how special a group of people can be when they’re allowed to be themselves.
And that’s what I want for you! Okay, you don’t need to start covering staples in jello, or binging “Battlestar Galactica,” but I want you to be confident in who God created you to be!
Taking senior photos is all about channeling that confident energy. You’re the only “you” out there, and this is a perfect chance to express your personality through photos! So without further ado, here are the six things to bring to your senior photo session that will help you be your best self — I think Michael Scott would approve!
1. Outfit changes
Here is a secret about senior photos: you CAN’T overpack! Your parents might not like it when you bring a giant suitcase of outfit changes for a camping trip, but as a photographer, I actually love it when seniors show up with a trunk FULL of outfits!
Location and clothing go hand in hand. Part of creating a cohesive, seamless image is making sure the outfit ties into the location…which ties into your personality. No pressure! It’s actually a really fun process. Together, we can go through your outfit choices and locations to find the perfect combination to express your personality. So that’s why I say “always bring everything!”
But what does “everything” mean? Well, always bring that fun new outfit that you’re so excited to show off. Anything that expresses your personality is what I love to see! Bring your favorite sweater or shirt, too — the one that makes your eyes pop. You know, the one your grandmother always says you look nice in. And, of course, bring some neutral or denim items that you can pair with your sports gear.
Don’t worry about “clashing” or looking too bold. Whether you want to rock cheetah print pants or a graphic tee, there is a location to match…I promise! So it doesn’t hurt to have options.
2. Props
Okay…what has made you smile today? Your dog? Your latest art project? Taco Tuesday? Whatever that is…bring it to your senior photo session!
Photographers are here to capture your smile — so what better way to do that than by bringing the things that bring you joy? Yes, bring your pets, hats, paint, confetti, basketball, donuts, tacos…everything. Pick what you like, period…Remember, you’re only taking these photos once, so why not take a risk and get that fun shot!
Besides expressing your personality and the things you love, props add energy and variety to your photos. They provide a sense of movement to your images, which keeps the eye captivated and makes your photos really POP!
I love getting to talk with my clients and help them dream up what they want to bring to their senior photo session. When in doubt, toss it in the trunk!
3. Support squad
Okay, time to get in formation, everyone! This occasion calls for the people you trust. Whether that’s Mom to help with a last-minute French braid, Dad to boost you up onto that artsy brick wall, or your bestie to lint roll your sweater, having your squad together will make the day go smoothly. Plus, you get to have some fun and a few photos with your favorite people!
Of course, sometimes the people we love aren’t the best photo shoot pals. If you’re worried that a family member or friend might end up making it harder for you to relax in front of the camera, don’t be afraid to slim down the squad. It’s hard to strike a serious pose when certain people are around!
And yes, bringing family includes those furry friends too! Just make sure to bring someone who can keep the pets in control when it’s not their turn in the shot.
4. Comfortable shoes for your senior photo session.
I’m all about capturing your authentic “you”…and that means moving around a lot! I want you to be able to strike any pose with no fear, and to try out all the different spots that inspire you. But that can be hard in stiletto heels!
At a senior photo shoot, you might be walking from site to site and standing in new positions. With comfortable shoes, you have a wider range of motion, meaning more poses. Plus, it’ll be a lot easier to get from place to place. So I always advise seniors to wear shoes they can run in — you never know what mood will strike!
But this day is, most of all, about you. So if you really love those heels, then wear them! And I promise I won’t make you skip across gravel in them. 😉
5. Smoke bombs
Okay, your parents might freak out, but smoke bombs are…the bomb! Elements like smoke bombs are SUCH a fun way to set the mood and add personality to your shoot. Think outside the box…you only do senior photos once, so why not have fun?
Keep in mind that if you do choose to use smoke bombs, there are a few things to look out for…you’ll want to make sure they won’t stain your clothes, and make you sneeze like crazy! Smoke bombs are legal for purchase in Nebraska.
Even without smoke bombs, there are lots of other ways to add drama to your photo session…I’m all about that! Maybe you want to use sparklers, flower petals or paint…maybe you want to shoot at a carnival, a hot air balloon launch or a greenhouse. If you can dream it, we can try it!
6. Positive attitude
And last but not least…the MOST important thing to bring is a good attitude! Enter the day with a positive outlook and a “no fear” approach.
Sometimes people get camera shy…it’s easy to think that we aren’t good enough, that we aren’t pretty or handsome enough. But guess what? You are beautiful exactly the way you are…no matter what! And your pictures will look great, I promise! Take a minute to read about the five things I’d like to remind you of before your photo session.
And relax…this is going to be great! You’re great!