SENIOR PORTRAIT PREP GUIDE

🎓 Welcome to Your Senior Portrait Experience! 🎓

This is your time to shine—and I’m here to make it fun, meaningful, and all about you. Whether you’re celebrating the end of high school, gearing up for what’s next, or just want to capture this exciting moment in your life, this guide will help you feel prepared, confident, and totally ready for your session.

Senior portraits aren’t just about taking great photos (though you’ll get plenty of those!). They’re about capturing your personality, your energy, and everything that makes you you at this amazing point in your journey.

This prep guide is your go-to for tips and insights to help make your session smooth, stress-free, and unforgettable.

Let’s create something that celebrates exactly who you are—right now!

Juleen Lapporte | Photographer

WARDROBE & STYLING

Let’s make sure your style shines through in every shot! Aim for 2-5 outfits that reflect your personality and make you feel amazing. Here are a few ideas to help you prep:

  • Casual + Confident: A great pair of jeans, a favorite top, or a cozy sweater can give you a relaxed, polished look. This is perfect for capturing your everyday vibe with a little extra shine.

  • Sweet + Simple: A casual sundress in a color or print you love is always a win. Pair it with sandals or sneakers for a breezy, natural look that feels light and fun.

  • Bold + Edgy: Want to show off some attitude? Think leather jackets, distressed denim, or a graphic tee. Add bold shoes, accessories, or something unexpected.

  • Epic + Elevated: Go all out with a dramatic dress, jumpsuit, or standout outfit. Think glam, flowing fabrics, and a little sparkle. This look is all about making a statement.

  • College Bound: Repping your future school? Bring your college sweatshirt, t-shirt, or gear to celebrate the next chapter. It’s a great way to show school spirit and excitement for what’s ahead.

  • Fit + Feel: Choose outfits that fit well and make you feel confident. If it’s too tight, too loose, or just doesn’t feel like you, skip it.

  • Mix It Up: Patterns, textures, pops of color, and fun shoes are welcome! Don’t be afraid to break the “rules”—just make sure it still feels like your style.

  • Try It On: Do a test run before your shoot! Move around, sit, pose—make sure everything feels great and looks just as good on camera.

  • Wardrobe Change: I bring a pop-up tent for wardrobe changes on-location.

This is your time to shine, so wear what makes you feel like the best version of you.

SELF-CARE TIPS

A little self-care goes a long way when it comes to feeling confident and looking your best on photo day! Here are a few easy ways to pamper yourself before your session:

Glow Up: Exfoliate and moisturize your skin a few days before your shoot for a fresh, healthy glow. Skip new products right before your session to avoid surprise reactions.

Hair + Makeup: Stick with a version of your everyday look—something that feels like you. If you're doing your own makeup, practice ahead of time. Need a little boost? I can always enhance your look in post, but I can’t tone down heavy makeup in editing.

Nail Check: Keep your nails clean and tidy—natural, classic, or colorful, just make sure they’re photo-ready!

Eat to Feel Good: A few days before your shoot, try cutting back on sugar and processed foods. Fresh fruits and veggies can help you feel (and look) your best.

Hydrate: Water is your friend! Hydrated skin looks smoother and more radiant in photos.

Rest Up: A solid night’s sleep before your shoot can make all the difference. Bright eyes and good energy? Yes, please.

Don’t Stress About Blemishes: Those surprise breakouts or skin bumps? No worries—I'll take care of them in post-production. Your final images will be polished and natural.

Take care of yourself—you deserve to feel amazing for this special moment!

MINDSET

Embrace the Experience

Feeling a little nervous? That’s totally normal—and kind of expected! This might be your first time in front of the camera like this, but don’t worry—I’ll guide you every step of the way. We’ll keep things relaxed, fun, and 100% you.

  • Nerves? Totally Normal. Almost everyone feels awkward at first (even models!). But trust me—it fades fast, and before you know it, we’ll be laughing and snapping your new favorite pics.

  • Hype Yourself Up: You’ve done some pretty awesome things to get to this point—remind yourself of that! You’re smart, strong, and totally photo-ready.

  • Just Breathe: A couple of deep breaths can work magic. The more chill you feel, the more natural your photos will look.

  • Trust the Process: You don’t have to know how to pose or where to look. That’s my job! I’ve got you—just show up and be yourself.

  • Celebrate YOU: This session is all about celebrating your journey, your vibe, your style. There’s no one right way to “do” senior portraits—just your way.

  • Feel the Feels: Whether you’re pumped, nervous, reflective, or all of the above—that’s all part of it.

So take a breath, strike a pose (or don’t, I’ll help with that), and let’s have some fun capturing this special time in your life!

Need Some Inspiration?

For photoshoot inspiration, check out these Pinterest boards full of ideas to help you find the perfect look. You'll find a variety of styles and concepts, making it easier to envision what suits you best. Explore what resonates with you, and feel free to browse even more ideas on Pinterest.