OK, so she may not be technically a senior, but that’s only because she already graduated. She’s the same age as most seniors in high school, she just happens to be in college. Here are some tips I have if you’re going to choose the beach as your location for a photo session.
CHECK THE WEATHER AND TIDE INFORMATION
It was a gorgeous night at the beach for Paris’ session. I always make sure I check not only the weather, but the tide information to make sure we have great conditions at the beach. I’m happy to reschedule for the best weather and tide conditions if at all possible. It’s my job to make the session as successful as possible. I’ve learned the hard way that it’s better to be prepared.
CHOOSE YOUR CLOTHING WISELY
Paris’ dress is gorgeous, and looks great on her. The length is not too short for when the wind picks up and may blow the skirt up a bit. It fits her nicely so she doesn’t have to constantly adjust straps or pull and tug to make it look right. I recommend you wear your outfit around the house for awhile to make sure it is comfortable while you’re sitting, standing, or even laying down. Can you easily climb up on a rock, wade into shallow water, or walk around? These are things you’re going to do at your session.
I recommend you don’t wear shoes for the photos. You should definitely bring shoes to wear as you walk from the car to the beach, but not for the photos.
Most of my senior portrait clients bring 2-3 outfits for their sessions. It isn’t necessary to do this, but it’s an option if you want it. You will need to layer your clothing because bathrooms are not available at every beach to change into.
KNOW THAT YOUR HAIR WILL BE WIND BLOWN
It’s just a fact of life at the beach that it’s breezy at best, but mostly it’s just windy. Your hair will be blowing around, and the water mist often causes curls to lay flat. Paris’ mom had the best idea to prevent this as much as possible. She put her curls in a hair net until we started the session. That kept the curls protected until we were ready to take the photos.
Bring a brush for those close-up photos where you want to smooth out your hair as much as possible. I like to find protected areas away from the wind for these moments. You’ll be so glad you have a brush.
With all that being said, don’t worry so much about the wind blown look. It’s my job to position you where the wind works to your benefit. The motion of your hair blowing can look so beautiful, and add to the interest in the photos. Don’t expect perfection, and instead embrace the wind.
BE OK WITH THE FACT THAT YOU PROBABLY WILL GET WET & SANDY
It is rare for me to have a beach session where my clients don’t get their feet in the water. I’ve also had sessions where they fully immerse themselves in the water at the end. Those are really fun sessions. The more relaxed and playful you are, the more fun you’ll have, and then your photos will look like you’re having fun and enjoying yourself. If you’re bringing children to a beach session, don’t forget a change of clothes and towels for the ride home.
DON’T CHOOSE THE BEACH UNLESS YOU LOVE IT THERE
The beach is my favorite spot, but I realize it’s not for everyone. It’s a longer drive to get there for most people, it is windy, sometimes cold, and the possibility of leaving all sandy and wet is high. If you hate those things you should pick another place. I would hate for you to be miserable during your session because you don’t like the beach because it will definitely show up in the pictures. There are many other beautiful places for you to choose from. I can recommend locations if you don’t know where to go.
Preparation is key to having a successful photo session. I want you to LOVE your photos. I want you to be filled with joy every time you see them, and being prepared is the best way to achieve that.
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