I love working with high school seniors.  They are excited, energetic and willing to try almost anything!  My senior photo shoots really give me a chance to stretch my creative muscles, whether it be trying out new photo locations or new and different ways to pose my subjects.

When shooting a senior session, I always have two different audiences in mind.  I know that these photos are going to be displayed on the family’’s wall and in photo albums for years to come.  But they are also going to be shared with friends and posted all over the senior’s social media. In other words - I need to shoot some images that are timeless and others that are more modern and fun.

One of the ways to get both sets of images is by giving careful thought to how the subject poses for the camera.  There is an art to posing. A good photographer has a posing plan, but she is also willing to live in the moment and go with the flow.

When you are posing subjects for senior pictures, there are a few basic rules to follow and some “go-to” poses that will almost always result in a flattering picture.

• Never shoot your subject straight on. If both shoulders are facing the camera, it can make your beautiful senior girl look wide.  

• Use hands and arms to frame the face. It may seem awkward, but doing this will make the photo more delicate and feminine.

• Don't forget her hair. Have your senior swing her head toward you and catch movement in her hair, or ask her to slowly brush her bangs or hair out of her face for a natural shot.

• Vary her body position. Shoot your senior standing up, laying down, sitting, leaning in to a wall or other object, leaning back, and looking over her shoulder.

I spend a lot of time getting to know my girls before the big day so I can tailor the session to her perfectly.   That way I can capture her essence in my photos. Above all, try to get your senior to relax and have fun. After all, her facial expressions are going to make or break your perfectly posed photo.  

Giving a little extra forethought to your poses can take your senior photo session to the next level and give your client, and her family, photographs they will all treasure for years to come.