As a Utah senior photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing these pivotal moments for countless graduates. Through my lens, I’ve seen the excitement, the anticipation, and the genuine smiles that come with this significant milestone. A senior session is more than just a photoshoot; it’s a celebration of your journey, achievements, and the unique individual you’ve become. Here are three essential tips to ensure your senior session is as unique and authentic as you are, and why you should start thinking about booking your Spring 2024 session now.
1. Showcase your true self
Reflect Your Interests: Your senior photos should be a reflection of who you are. Are you an athlete, an artist, a book lover, or a nature enthusiast? Let’s incorporate these elements into your session. As a Utah Senior Photographer, I encourage you to bring props that are meaningful to you – be it your sports gear, paintbrushes, or your beloved guitar. This not only adds a personal touch to your photos but also helps you feel more connected and relaxed during the shoot.
Choose Locations That Resonate: Utah’s diverse landscapes provide a stunning backdrop for senior sessions. Whether you’re drawn to the urban charm of Salt Lake City or the breathtaking vistas of Zion National Park, choosing a location that resonates with your personality can make a significant difference. If you’re unsure, I’m here to help suggest locations that align with your vision and personality.
Wear What Feels Right: Your outfit choices should reflect your style and make you feel confident. Avoid choosing something just because it’s trendy. If you’re most comfortable in a casual t-shirt and jeans, let’s go with that. If you love dressing up, that’s great too. Remember, these photos are about celebrating you.
2. Embrace the natural you
Relax and Be Yourself: The best photos are those where you look and feel relaxed. I understand that being in front of the camera can be daunting, but as a seasoned Utah Senior Photographer, I excel at creating a comfortable and fun atmosphere. We’ll chat, laugh, and maybe even dance a little. The goal is to capture your genuine expressions and the spontaneous moments that truly reflect your personality.
Trust in Subtle Guidance: While some direction is needed to get the best shots, over-posing can make photos look forced. I prefer to give gentle guidance and then let you take the lead. It’s about finding that perfect balance between structure and spontaneity.
Candid Moments are Gold: Some of the most memorable shots are the unplanned ones. A burst of laughter, a thoughtful glance, or a spontaneous twirl can capture aspects of your personality in ways posed shots can’t. As your photographer, I’m always on the lookout for these candid, authentic moments.
3. Timing is everything
Leverage the Golden Hour: In Utah, the golden hour – that time just after sunrise or before sunset – offers a magical light that can add an ethereal quality to your photos. This soft, warm light is incredibly flattering and can bring a dreamy, timeless feel to your senior session.
Seasonal Beauty: Every season in Utah offers unique opportunities for stunning photos. However, there’s something special about Spring with its blooming flowers and vibrant greens. It’s a season of new beginnings, making it a perfect metaphor for a senior session.
Plan Ahead: Spring is a popular time for senior sessions in Utah, and my calendar fills up quickly. If you’re graduating in 2024, now is the time to start planning your session. Booking early ensures you get your preferred date and gives us ample time to plan and personalize your shoot.
Your senior session is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, a chance to capture who you are at this pivotal moment in your life. With these tips and a little planning, we can create a session that authentically represents you.
Ellie & Autumn a Utah Senior Session
I captured Ellie’s Autumn Utah senior session and it was absolutely BEAUTIFUL. She was most comfortable with her Wrangler jeans, boots, and a cowboy hat on with her horse Autumn, so that’s EXACTLY what we did! We did a quick wardrobe change for mom too! Browse through some of my favorites from her Utah senior session in the beautiful Autumn foliage.
As a Utah senior photographer, I am passionate about creating memorable, personalized senior sessions that graduates and their families will treasure for years. If you’re a 2024 graduate, now is the time to start thinking about your senior session. Book your Spring session today, and let’s create beautiful, authentic photographs that you’ll look back on with joy and pride. P.s. check out my Instagram for more inspo >> @brookebakken
