If you’re beginning or just wrapping up your senior year, congratulations. No matter where you are as you stumbled and clicked on this page (thanks btw), this is a big year. 

One that’s guaranteed to have *all the emotions* especially as one chapter ends, and the next is just around the corner.  

I don’t know about you, but I believe that deserves to be celebrated and captured.

And yes, I mean captured as in booking your senior portraits. 

As cliche as it might sound, time really does fly by so fast. And you’re going to miss it. 

Now don’t get me wrong, there’s still so much ahead of you–that’s the exciting part of being on the edge of something new. But, I personally believe that having pictures that speak to who you are today–your likes, dislikes, passions, hobbies, vibe–is worth something. 

Because as the pages of your life turn, all you’ll have to remember this chapter are the photos you took and the stories you told. 

That’s why I went through all of my past shoots to pull out the necessary details for a complete guide in what to do before you book a photographer, how to cultivate your vision, questions to consider when scouting the best locations, and tips for choosing your outfit(s). 

The goal is to help make senior portraits way more fun, easygoing, and tailored to your personality. 

So let’s dive in. 

When Should I Schedule My Senior Portrait Session?

First things first. Glad to hear you’re on board and excited to schedule your senior portrait session with a photographer.  

One of the first things I recommend doing is scrolling over a photographer’s portfolio, gallery page, or social media sites. 

If you’re looking for a little moodier pics their editing may lean towards darker shades or cooler tones. Or maybe you want more bold pops of color and are searching for someone who edits warmer tones. Whatever it may be, just make sure that their editing style and lighting matches what you’re envisioning. 

After you’ve found someone, you’re going to want to check the person’s availability. Many senior photographers book out months in advance so setting up a connection call to check in and see what dates they have open is a must. 

Here are a couple of timelines to keep in mind when narrowing down your senior portrait session date:

1. Are there yearbook deadlines to consider?
2. Do I need photos done before announcements or graduation parties?
3. Is there a certain time of the year I’m aiming to have pictures in (spring, summer, fall, etc)?

Summer ends up being a popular month for many because there’s more flexibility with school being out. But if you’re wanting something particular in spring or have a deep love for autumn, don’t let that stop you from asking. 

Just be sure to keep those top 3 deadlines in mind. From there you’ll be able to sort through what works best for you and the photographer’s schedule. 

Curating Your Senior Portrait Vision

This happens to be one of my favorite parts when working with clients. 

The goal is to create an entire senior portrait experience that celebrates how far you’ve come and all that lies ahead. The only way to do this is by weaving in the elements that speak to who you are–everything from your style, interests, quirks, and aspirations.  

While it’s soooo easy to see what others are doing and assume you should be striking the same pose. Or using the exact location. Don’t. That’s the best way to strip away your personality from your pictures. And where’s the fun in that?

That’s why it’s important to reflect about the overall vision you want to have. Do you envision a shoot filled with golden light and a backdrop of the Wichita Mountains? 

Or a much more urban vibe against the murals of Plaza District where you can play with eye-capturing color and texture? Maybe you’re wanting to take your creativity up a notch with a mix of nature and architecture. 

One of the best ways I recommend honing in on the feel of your shoot is by creating a mood board. And it doesn’t have to be an old fashioned, magazine cut off, poster board (unless you want it to). 

Try starting with a Pinterest board dedicated to your senior shoot. And if you’re feeling stuck ask a close friend you trust to make one that reminds them of you. You can also make a playlist of your favorite songs to listen to as you put one together. Really set the scene for diving into all the gritty details that make up the person you are today.  

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to share this with your photographer before or during your call. That way they have a visual for what you’re wanting to achieve during the session. 

Narrowing down the vision of your shoot will help all the other pieces fall into place.

Where Are The Hidden Gems in OKC to Take Pictures?

When thinking about the perfect location, imagine the backdrop you want to have that aligns with your big picture. 

Maybe there’s already a specific place that comes to mind? One that’s meaningful to you and will help you look back on the time you had in high school. Love that! 

Or maybe you’re wanting to try somewhere completely new and unique? You want the experience to be another story you can tell! Heck yes! 

Oklahoma City has plenty of hidden gems to choose from. Everything from coveted instagrammable spots, architectural and art spaces, mountains, parks, coffee shops and patios, and nature trails.

While it’s hard to pick a favorite, here’s some of the best places for pictures in and surrounding Oklahoma City:

1. Myriad Gardens 

This happens to be one of the most vibrant and green spaces I’ve shot.  It’s the perfect mix of urban and nature from the walkways, the pond, and the conservatory. 

2. Plaza District 

With numerous murals, art, and deep-rooted Spanish architectural elements, this is a fun pick. Especially when playing with color in your photos. There’s so many elements that make this spot a number one go-to. Probably why I already mentioned it 🙂 

3. Bricktown River Walk Park 

Bricktown’s historic charm and canal offers so many photo opportunities. You can take a walk throughout the district and find so much variety in the lighting, seasons, and structures. 

Remember, these are just a few to spark some ideas. There’s plenty of spots we can hit. Just keep in mind the seasons and the weather that can come into play. 

Plus the timing of the session itself. Generally early morning or evening is ideal when capturing the best lighting. 

Once you’ve mapped out where you want to go, I’ll scout out the best areas for exposure, lines, and composition. 

And if you’re unsure, no stress. As a local, I’ll be sure to point out during a connection call destinations that will match the vibe you’re going for. The ones that won’t steal the spotlight–hello, that’s you! Together, we’ll collaborate on a space that compliments you and your vision. 

Attire for Your Photoshoot!

But what do I wear (said in the best grinch voice I can muster)?

Now that you have a good idea of your location, go back to your overall theme. Typically during your shoot you get 3 outfit changes. You’ll want to wear something that’s going to reflect your style, passions, and personality. 

I always recommend aiming for something dressy, casual, and one that’s going to channel your energy and individuality. 

That doesn’t necessarily mean buying a whole new outfit either (unless you want to). Take a peek into your closet and see if there’s a staple piece you can’t imagine not taking pics in. 

Pro Tip: This needs to be planned in advance and not the night before. There’s nothing worse than trying on the outfit (you may or may not have shipped to you) only to discover it doesn’t fit the way you imagined. 

Do yourself a favor and give yourself plenty of time to find the attire that will make you feel and look your best. You’ll find more of my outfit tips here. 

Hair and Makeup!

Now that you’ve figured out what you’re wearing, it’s time to decide If you’re wanting to have hair and makeup done for your shoot. 

If you’re wanting to go down the professional route, then I highly suggest asking friends who’ve done the same for recommendations on where or who to see. 

Once you’ve found someone you trust, be sure to book a trial run. This is a great way to see what product works, which are going to irritate your skin, and if there’s any changes they’ll need to make. 

If you’re doing your own look, practice, practice, and practice. Leading up to the shoot, try out different styles to nail down exactly what you’re going for. This will go a long way in boosting your confidence and not second guessing how everything is coming together. 

Don’t worry, your photographer can also help provide guidance in the do’s and don’ts of what to wear, colors to avoid, and tips for cosmetics.

Who Should Tag Along With Me?

Your ride-or-dies of course. 

But no really, I encourage you to bring someone that’s going to help you relax. That could be your mom, sibling, or best friend. 

While I’ll crack jokes and try my best to help you feel comfortable, it’s always more fun to have someone come along. 

And if you’re looking for a group session to document the friendship and memories of the past four years, let’s chat. What better way to celebrate the relationship than a photoshoot.

The Senior Portrait Experience

Each image is as unique as the person I’m shooting. 

The entire senior portrait experience is personalized down to the smallest detail. My hope is that at the end of the day, you walk away knowing what we captured was a true reflection of who you are in this moment. 

Each session typically lasts between 1-2 hours. During which I’ll be sure to guide you through poses and highlight your best angles. 

But more than that, I’m here to bring this part of your story to life in a tangible way. So I’ll also be clicking away at the unscripted moments giving you a collection of stills that showcase the essence of who you are. 

Ready to bring your senior portrait vision to life? 

I’m here for it and always happy to jump on a call. Plus, if there’s anything I missed and you want me to cover, drop the notes in the comments below. 

Until then, know that I’m cheering you on and believe “you’re gonna go far” (one of my fav Noah Kahn songs).