We know how exciting and overwhelming it can be to prepare for your senior photo session. At Mariela Ryan Photography, we aim to make the process as easy as possible for you. That's why we've created this handy checklist to help you every step of the way, no matter who you've picked as your senior photographer!

8 Essential Steps to Prepare for Your Senior Photo Session

1) Book Your Session Early: Senior year flies by in a whirlwind of activity, and your senior pictures are a key part of capturing those cherished memories. Don’t let the hustle and bustle of senior year catch you off guard. Ensure you have your session secured well in advance to guarantee your photographer of choice before they are booked out!

2) Fashion Consultation: Your senior portrait session is all about showcasing your unique style and personality. That's why we offer a personalized fashion consultation to ensure your wardrobe reflects the real you. During this session, we'll collaborate on selecting outfits that not only look fantastic but also make you feel confident and comfortable. Whether you're aiming for a casual vibe or a more polished look, we'll provide expert guidance to curate the perfect ensemble for your session. Our goal is to capture your essence and create timeless images that you'll cherish for years to come.

3) Hair Care: Your hair is your crowning glory, and we want it to look its absolute best for your senior portrait session. A week before your session, treat yourself to a pampering hair care routine. While we advise against drastic changes, it's the perfect time for touch-ups on roots and highlights to ensure a fresh and vibrant look. Invest in salon-grade products to maintain your hair's health and shine leading up to the big day. Remember, well-maintained hair not only photographs beautifully but also boosts your confidence during the session.

4) Facial Spa Day: Your senior portrait session is a milestone moment, and we want you to look and feel your absolute best. Treat yourself to a relaxing facial spa day about one week before your session to ensure your skin is fresh, radiant, and camera-ready. This pampering session includes gentle exfoliation and deep moisturization to leave your skin glowing and ready for the camera. Taking this time for self-care not only enhances your natural beauty but also boosts your confidence as you step in front of the lens. So indulge in some well-deserved pampering and let your inner radiance shine through in your senior portraits!

5) Wardrobe Organization: Your wardrobe is an essential component of your senior portrait session, and careful organization ensures a smooth and stress-free experience. Begin organizing your outfits and accessories five days before your session to allow ample time for preparation. Hang each outfit on a single hanger, ensuring that each piece is wrinkle-free and ready for the camera. As you assemble your outfits, don't forget to coordinate accessories such as shoes, belts, scarves, and jewelry to complement each ensemble perfectly. Attach these accessories to the corresponding outfit hangers to streamline your dressing process on the day of your session.

6) Last-Minute Shopping: With your outfits planned and organized, it's time for any last-minute additions to perfect your look for your senior portrait session. Head out for a shopping spree as soon as your outfits are finalized. Take a quick snapshot of each ensemble to ensure that every piece fits perfectly and complements your overall vision. Whether it's a statement accessory, a trendy piece of outerwear, or the perfect pair of shoes, this shopping trip is your final opportunity to add those special touches that will elevate your portraits to the next level.

7) Mani-Pedi Time: Just before your session, treat yourself to a manicure and pedicure to ensure that your nails are perfectly groomed and polished.

8) Beauty Sleep: The night before your senior portrait session is crucial for ensuring that you look and feel your best on the big day. Just make sure to prioritize getting plenty of rest to wake up feeling refreshed and energized. You've put in the time and effort to prepare for this moment, so now it's time to relax and unwind.

Ready to kickstart your senior portrait journey with Mariela Ryan Photography? Our senior sessions include everything from fashion consultations to makeup and hair styling, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience. Fill out the contact form for more information on the Senior Experience!

Keep shining!

Mariela