SENIOR SESSION GUIDE
HEY GIRL HEY!
I’m so so so excited about your senior session coming up and to welcome you into the #kmpsenior family!! The Session Guide below is full of information about outfit tips and tricks, location ideas, hair and makeup, and most importantly - what to expect at your session! If I ask you to do anything, it's to read through this full guide. All the questions you're probably wondering should all be answered right here in this guide and will be the best resource to prepare you for your shoot and ensure a GREAT session!!
no need to feel nervous
Beyond anything else, if there's one thing that I want you to know, it is that you do not need to feel nervous or feel any type of pressure coming into your senior session. There is no right or wrong way to do it. You can come in with ideas in mind, or not. My job is to help plan an amazing session just for you, guide you and make you feel comfortable in front of the camera and have the best dang time of your life!! I know it can feel a little awkward being in front of the camera at first, but I promise that after the first few minutes you are going to be having a blast and get comfortable working it in front of the camera!!
no need to feel nervous
Beyond anything else, if there's one thing that I want you to know, it is that you do not need to feel nervous or feel any type of pressure coming into your senior session. There is no right or wrong way to do it. You can come in with ideas in mind, or not. My job is to help plan an amazing session just for you, guide you and make you feel comfortable in front of the camera and have the best dang time of your life!! I know it can feel a little awkward being in front of the camera at first, but I promise that after the first few minutes you are going to be having a blast and get comfortable working it in front of the camera!!
a few notes from yours truly
#1
no need to feel nervous
Beyond anything else, if there's one thing that I want you to know, it is that you do not need to feel nervous or feel any type of pressure coming into your senior session. There is no right or wrong way to do it. You can come in with ideas in mind, or not. My job is to help plan an amazing session just for you, guide you and make you feel comfortable in front of the camera and have the best dang time of your life!! I know it can feel a little awkward being in front of the camera at first, but I promise that after the first few minutes you are going to be having a blast and get comfortable working it in front of the camera!!
a few notes from yours truly
#1
no need to feel nervous
#2
POSING
When it comes down to posing, I GOT YOU! I will guide you throughout the entire session with natural and fun poses to be sure you look your best in all the photos!
I know there are so many cute poses on TikTok and Pinterest, and if you see something you love, share it with me! This is your session and if you want to do a pose you saw on TikTok, let's do it girl.
But ALSO, if you're thinking,"I have absolutely no idea what to do!" No need to worry, because I have a full gallery of poses in my head at all times!
#2
#3
I am including this section because it plays a vital role in your session and I can not stress it enough!
Please try your very, very best to arrive on time! Your senior session is scheduled around the time that the sun sets, and once the sun has set, we lose our light and can no longer shoot
If you arrive to your session even 10-15 minutes late, it will affect the amount of time that we can shoot and the length of your session!
If you are more than 30 minutes late to your session, sadly, we will have to reschedule for my next earliest available date which may be 3 or even 4 months out from your original date!
Give yourself extra time for grabbing those last minute details, packing the car, in case you forget something, and braving the traffic (especially my FXBG girls!)
#3
ARRIVAL TIME
#4
WEATHER
One of the BIGGEST questions I get asked is, "What if it rains?!"
Obviously no one wants to take their senior portraits on a rainy day! Don't worry, I won't make you take photos on a nasty day just because it's the day you booked.
If the forecast is calling for rain on the day of your session, I typically hold off until 24-48 hours before the session time to make a decision. Why? Because the weather can be SO unpredictable and I don't want to reschedule a session too early because of what the forecast predicts.
If the forecast is 75% or higher, we will definitely reschedule. If it is anywhere between 50-75% chance, I will leave it up to you to decide. Anything below 50% I typically will still try to photograph your session unless it is just too gross outside.
Gorgeous, glowy light like the photo on this page is ideal, BUT cloudy days can still be just as beautiful!! Trust me!
#4
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SEASON
May - August
Summer is one of my favorite seasons for senior sessions! Almost always guaranteed for a sunny day and flowers are still in bloom all around! Nothing beats a summer evening glow either. The best part though, these sessions take place anywhere from 6:00 - 8:30 p.m. because the sun sets so late! Perfect for if you play sports or have after school activities you can't miss, summer might be your best bet!
Summer
Fall
September - early Nov
FALL!!! Everyone's favorite and for good reason! Fall is one of the best seasons for your session because, A) beautiful weather and amazing temps, and B) gorgeous gorgeous girls love fall trees and cute sweaters! During October time frame, the sun definitely begins to set earlier, so keep that in mind as you think about how soon or late in the fall to book. Sunset in the fall ranges anywhere between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m. so sessions typically start around 4:00ish (depending on your date).
Winter
Mid Nov - early March
Winter, the dreaded season. While I typically do not photograph senior sessions during this time, it isn't impossible that there will be one. It is cold and typically grey and no pretty greenery in sight. However, in the case your session lands during this time, there is hope! If we bear the cold, we can always turn a beautiful location into something magical. Sunset in the winter can be around 4:00 p.m., so sessions start early!
Spring
March - April
SPRING!! The second favorite time of year for senior sessions, and a personal fav.... JK fall and spring are tied for me! End of March through early May you are guaranteed pretty flowers and warmer temps, only downside is a higher chance of rain or cloudy days. But hey, if there are flowers around, we can always make it work! Sunset in the spring can be anywhere between 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
LOCATIONS IDEAS
LOCATION TIPS
These photos are meant for you to carry with you through life as a reminder of this season. When it comes to choosing a location, you want to pick somewhere that holds a little bit of meaning to you. Is there a place you frequently love exploring? If not a specific place, think about the things you love to do! Do you tend to go to the beach? Go for runs in a specific park? Or is there a certain vibe or season you really love? Like beautiful flowers in the spring or the colorful leaves in the fall?
Your photos will feel authentically you if we shoot somewhere you love. Of course, you can always choose a location that you’ve never been to before. I've got some great suggestions for you right below!!
UNIQUE
LOCATIONS
UNIQUE LOCATIONS
I love how one of my past seniors, Emily, wanted something super unique to her. So, she invited me to her farm! She has been horse back riding her whole life, so obviously wanted to include this into her session. She even included her grandpa's vintage car into the shoot! Overall, this session was so special to her AND her family. These photos she can look back on the rest of her life and remember what was important to her. I loved this one SO much!
OUTFIT TIPS & TRICKS
OUTFIT TIPS
I'm going to be honest here! Choosing what outfits you will wear for your session is a HUGE decision. Your outfits will literally make or break your senior portrait session and I don't say that lightly! I know that might sound like I'm putting some pressure on the choices, but I've seen it one too many times and don't want that to happen for you, friend! This next section will walk you through some tips and some great examples of what to wear for your senior session!
There are 4 main categories of outfits to wear. See below! I always suggest to bring multiple options with you. Different vibes, different styles, some dressed up, some slightly more casual, etc. You are able to change up to 4 times, so make it worth it and get all the variety you would like! Here's a quick list if you're thinking, "okay, tell me exactly what to wear!"
THIS IS WHAT i WOULD BRING
#4
#3
#2
#1
2. NICE TOP + SKIRT
COMBO WITH HEELS
1. Romper or jumpsuit with cute HEELS
3. SHORT OR LONG DRESS
WITH HEELS, SANDALS,
OR BOOTS
4. jeans or cute pants with cute top
4 Main categories
Something timeless
SOMETHING CASUAL
SOMETHING TRENDY OR BOLD
SOMETHING UNIQUE TO YOU
This is typically a dress or skirt and heels. A dressier look that's pretty and classic and probably the outfit your mom will want to frame on the wall!
This is typically a pant and a cute top and heels or a dress/skirt and sneakers. Something still dressy and photo worthy, but can be a little more laid back.
This can be whatever you want it to be! Maybe it's a fluffy tulle dress or a matching hot pink pant suit. Maybe it's an outfit that you've been loving seeing on TikTok but just don't really have anywhere to wear it. This is your moment to choose something BOLD that stands out!
Similar to the previous, you can make this however you want. Most of the time, this is a sports uniform, dance costume, cheer uniform, college t-shirt or outfit with the school colors, graduation cap and gown, or a cute fit to bring out your instrument or pet. This is your outfit
4 SPECIFIC OUTFIT IDEAS
WANT TO SEE SOME SESSIONS
WITH GORGEOUS OUTFITS?!
Miss Corrine had all the perfect looks for her session!! AH! Take notes. She started off in her leather skirt. I love the way leather photographs. Then she changed into the cutest pants and crop top for our field photos. Her next fit was this purple dress where we went for ultimate sweet, fairytale vibes where took photos with her pointe shoes and favorite book collection in these flowers. Finished off in this white, angelic dress which looked so amazing with the last of golden hour!
CORRINE
click on the name to see THE full blog post!
WANT TO SEE SOME SESSIONS
WITH GORGEOUS OUTFITS?!
Kendall opted for all skirt and dress looks and they are some of my favorites!!! We started off with the denim skirt and heeled boots - adorable. Then changed into the black, ruffle romper. I love the added texture and dimension the ruffles give to the look. They always photograph beautifully! The orange corduroy dress in the fall tree location we found I could not be more obsessed. Then, finished off with a flowy sundress and converse for a casual summery look!
KENDALL
click on the name to see THE full blog post!
WANT TO SEE SOME SESSIONS
WITH GORGEOUS OUTFITS?!
Charlotte's session was the perfect mix of trendy, whimsical, girly, and sweet. Each fit was planned according to the location, which is the most genius way to go about planning your looks! Her romper and boots... chefs kiss! Love how her causal look was still simple, but the perfect pop of something special with the bow straps and lace up, bell bottom jeans!
CHARLOTTE
click on the name to see THE full blog post!
WANT TO SEE SOME SESSIONS
WITH GORGEOUS OUTFITS?!
SAMANTHA. KILLED. IT! She is my girlie girlie full glam queen. Her casual looks included the white jeans, blue top, and heels for an elevated casual. Then, she also opted for a super fun hot pink dress with sneakers. For her her dressy look she chose this ruffle dress she found from Pinterest and also brought along her prom dress for a few photos too! Her fun and bold look was the white tulle dress with red heels to show off she was heading to Bama!
SAMANTHA
click on the name to see THE full blog post!
WANT TO SEE SOME SESSIONS
WITH GORGEOUS OUTFITS?!
Charlotte's session was the perfect mix of trendy, whimsical, girly, and sweet. Each fit was planned according to the location, which is the most genius way to go about planning your looks! Her romper and boots... chefs kiss! Love how her causal look was still simple, but the perfect pop of something special with the bow straps and lace up, bell bottom jeans!
CHARLOTTE
click on the name to see THE full blog post!
WANT TO SEE SOME SESSIONS
WITH GORGEOUS OUTFITS?!
Kendall opted for all skirt and dress looks and they are some of my favorites!!! We started off with the denim skirt and heeled boots - adorable. Then changed into the black, ruffle romper. I love the added texture and dimension the ruffles give to the look. They always photograph beautifully! The orange corduroy dress in the fall tree location we found I could not be more obsessed. Then, finished off with a flowy sundress and converse for a casual summery look!
Kendall
click on the name to see THE full blog post!
WANT TO SEE SOME SESSIONS
WITH GORGEOUS OUTFITS?!
Miss Corrine had all the perfect looks for her session!! AH! Take notes. She started off in her leather skirt. I love the way leather photographs. Then she changed into the cutest pants and crop top for our field photos. Her next fit was this purple dress where we went for ultimate sweet, fairytale vibes where took photos with her pointe shoes and favorite book collection in these flowers. Finished off in this white, angelic dress which looked so amazing with the last of golden hour!
CORRINE
click on the name to see THE full blog post!
WANT TO SEE SOME SESSIONS
WITH GORGEOUS OUTFITS?!
SAMANTHA. KILLED. IT! She is my girlie girlie full glam queen. Her casual looks included the white jeans, blue top, and heels for an elevated casual. Then, she also opted for a super fun hot pink dress with sneakers. For her her dressy look she chose this ruffle dress she found from Pinterest and also brought along her prom dress for a few photos too! Her fun and bold look was the white tulle dress with red heels to show off she was heading to Bama!
SAMANTHA
click on the name to see THE full blog post!
COLORS + NEUTRALS
When choosing outfits for your senior session, try to choose colors that will either stand out or colors that will be softer, allowing you to be more of the focus. Also consider colors that will compliment your skin tone. Royal blue or light blue, soft pinks or bubblegum pinks, olive greens or emerald greens, jewel tones, are all example of colors that photograph beautifully! Try to mix in some neutral pieces as well. We can spice these up with layers or accessories if needed, but sometimes locations can have a lot going on in the background, so having some neutral pieces allows us to focus on your gorgeous self!
ADDING LAYERS
Adding layers to your outfits always looks really great in portraits while also creating a chance for more variety - aka more photos !! A cute top paired with a shacket in the fall, or a dainty tank top paired with a denim jacket makes for great opportunities for posing and adding in "props"!
ACCESSORIZE
The final piece to any outfit is always adding in an accessory!! I always lean to the side of a statement earring and simple necklace, or you can flip it and do a statement necklace and simple earrings. Another super fun look are stacked bracelets or layers of necklaces! Try to incorporate some type of statement accessory into each outfit and mix them up throughout.
Accessorizing doesn't just have to be jewelry either, it can be a pair of sunglasses (which always turn out SO cute) or a floppy hat in the warmer months, or a scarf or cute beanie in the fall.
There are seriously SO many fun ways to spice up your look by adding in accessories. PLUS, they make for some super cute poses to mis it up a little bit!
BE COMFORTABLE
My top outfit tip is that if you don't feel comfortable in the outfit you choose or just feeling really unsure about it while trying it on, odds are you are still going to feel uncomfortable the day of the session! In every outfit you choose, you should feel 110% confident and love the fit you are in!
Not only that, but you should also feel comfortable enough that you can move around in them. I'll probably have you sitting, maybe even laying on the ground at some point, walking and dancing and doing some other movement poses, so be sure you are feeling confident in your outfit pieces!
CLICK ME FOR OUTFIT INSPO!
TIME FOR SHOPPING!
altAr'd state
VESTIQUE RVA
sweetest stitch
traveling chic boutique
lulu's
abercrombie
hello molly
pink lilly
show me your mumu
SENIOR STYLE CLOSET
What is the Senior Style Closet?? Well, let me youuuu! The closet is open to any of my KMP seniors to borrow clothes for their session. Shopping for the perfect fit can be hard, I get it. So I wanted to create a special closet just for you! The closet is mostly full of trendy, bold, and unique pieces, because often times, these items can be hard to find or really expensive. There are also a few staples like white dresses and timeless styles. Sizes range from XS - XL and is ever growing with new looks and new sizes.
Click here to follow @kmpseniorstylecloset to see all the items!
HOW IT WORKS:
1. Like and save your favorite items on the profile.
2. Send me a DM with your favorite picks & I'll reserve them for your session date
3. I'll bring them to your session cleaned and ready for your shoot. Just be sure to bring shoes, appropriate underwear, and accessories
4. If you would like to bring an extra outfit just in case it doesn't fit quite right, please do so!
5. After your session, return your closet items to me and I'll get them cleaned up adn ready for the next session!
BEAUTY ADVICE
BEAUTY ADVICE
Professional hair & makeup is a key factor in having AMAZING senior portraits! This makes a huge difference in your images, so why not make it the best it can be?! Most of the senior collections include hair & makeup from our queen, Kelsea (the other Kels! ;) )
But if you opted for a collection without, here's our best tips! Plan to wear heavier make up than normal. Including blush and lipstick, or lip gloss, that are at least slightly darker than your lip color. What you can see in person doesn't always show up as detailed in camera. So going a little extra glam with make-up will be a huge help to enhance your natural beauty, not cover it! I also highly recommend wearing false eyelashes. These can be purchased for very affordable prices anywhere you buy makeup!
#1
Why have a pro?
Professional hair + makeup artists literally do this all day long, and specifically to make sure you look fabulous in photos! Your daily makeup may look amazing in person, but it will not even half-way show up in camera they way you may see it in the mirror. Professionals however, know what the camera needs but not over do it. Hiring a pro isn't going to make you look different, it's just going to enhance your natural beauty and be sure the camera picks up all that youthful beauty!!
Best part is, they'll give you false eyelashes to make your eyes pop AND shape your eyebrows to perfection. And you know we love a good eyebrow arch!
#2
#3
Can I do it myself?
Your senior portraits should not simply just be going out and taking pictures. You are ceIabrating one of the biggest events of your LIFE! Your senior portraits should be a whole experience to really get the most out of it. If you arrive and feel frustrated because you couldn't get your makeup right in the car ride over, it is going to affect your entire experience in a not so great way. Enjoy the day and enjoy the entire experience your senior session has to offer!
I mean, you totally can!! But unless you are just a makeup genius, trying to do your own makeup really well is STRESSFUL! (trust me, I've been there!) Professional camera equipment picks up every little detail. Professionals know how to put it all on right to ENHANCE your natural beauty, not hide it!
It's an experience!
MANICURE
One last tip!! In all of the chaos of senior session prep…don’t forget to pamper your nails! During your shoot, a lot of the poses we do will have your hands close to your face and in the frame, so make sure that your nails look just how you want! Try to avoid any chipped polish or crazy patterns. French manicures, white, light and natural colors all photograph best!!
WHAT TO BRING
PROPS TO BRING
Props can really make your session feel more like you. If you play a sport, are a dancer or cheerleader, or in the band, bring those unique items to incorporate into your session. Or maybe you love those Pinterest photos of the gorgeous picnic setups with the charcuterie boards and pretty lemonade glasses, let's set that up and make this unique for you!
PROP INSPIRATION
FURRY FRIEND
There's nothing I love more than when my seniors bring their pups along for some photos! So much fun, laughter, and some really great blooper pics coming your way. Down below are a few things to keep in mind when planning to bring your pup along.
1. gROOMING
2. BRING A FRIEND
A fresh bath and a lil trim will have your pup ready for #modelstatus
Consider bringing someone along to watch/hold him while we are doing photos without
Best way to get a dog looking at the camera? Treats or squeaky toys!
