Senior Portrait Timelines: How to Plan Yours

Your senior year is filled with so many memories and milestones, which is why it deserves to be captured. However, if you are worried about whether your senior photo session will go according to plan, it helps to have a timeline in place.

Knowing when to take care of certain tasks will help you feel more relaxed in the months leading up to your session. Here is when to plan what.

Immediately

The one thing you want to do first is find a senior photographer and book your session. The best photographers are booked up quickly, so spend time doing your research and decide on a date as soon as you can. This is especially true if you have your heart set on a photo session during a certain time of the year.

1 – 3 Months Before

Several months before your session is when you should decide on an outfit. Your wardrobe choices will set the tone for your senior session and tell your unique story. Do you have certain hobbies that you want to incorporate into your session? Would you prefer a more glamorous look? Whatever you decide, plan and shop for your outfits ahead of time. It also helps to have a backup outfit just in case.

You can also use this time to make a list of any props you would like to use in your session. There is no rule that says you need to use props though.

1 – 2 Weeks Before

The weeks leading up to your senior photo session are when you want to take care of any grooming. If you need to cut your hair or have your nails done, now is the time to do it. This is not the time to try a dramatic new look though. If you do want to change your hairstyle or color, rather do that a month or two before your shoot to make sure you’re happy with it.

Day Before

The day before your shoot is when you should get everything ready. Put all your outfits, props, makeup, and accessories in one place. You can also use this time to cut your nails, shave, and do some general grooming. If you are planning to use self-tanning products, make sure you don’t overdo it and end up orange.

It’s also essential to get enough rest the night before your session and to stay hydrated, your skin and eyes will look that much better in your photos if you do.

By using these tips, you can get to your senior shoot feeling relaxed and excited, which is exactly how you should feel.