Deciding what to wear is an integral part of planning for your senior photo session. But before you get too excited and start brainstorming different looks, there are a few things you should avoid when it comes to your outfit.

1. The color red. This no-no depends on the location of your senior photoshoot. If you plan to have a lot of greenery in the background of your photos, wearing too much red will quickly turn your senior session into a Christmas shoot. 
​2. A sports uniform without the gear. If you’re going to make sports the highlight of your senior photos, don’t forget to bring all your gear with you. A sports uniform looks great, but if you really want to tell a story about your senior year, bring all essential gear along with you.
3. A brand-new outfit. It’s perfectly fine to purchase a new outfit for your senior photoshoot, but don’t try that outfit on for the first time on the day. You never know when something might fit you poorly or if you’ll realize you don’t feel comfortable walking around in a particular clothing item.
4. Spaghetti straps. There is nothing wrong with spaghetti straps, but they can make your shoulders look much wider than they really are. If you do want to show some shoulder, rather go with a strapless dress or top.
5. Glasses with lenses. If you plan to wear glasses for your senior photos, try and remove the lenses for your shoot. This way, you can avoid any unnecessary glare and you get to show off your beautiful eyes. If this is not an option, opt for progressive lenses.
6. Graphic tees. T-shirts that have trendy graphics can look good in photos, but will they still be relevant in a few years. Ideally, you want your senior photos to be timeless so choose any graphic tees carefully.
7. Uncomfortable outfits. Everyone has one outfit that they love but that makes them feel slightly uncomfortable. This is not the right outfit to wear for your senior photo session. If you can’t bend and move comfortably, this will show in your images. 8. The wrong underwear. Even the wrong underwear can make a difference to your senior photos. Make sure the color of your underwear doesn’t show through your clothing and that straps aren’t visible. For guys, make sure your boxers or briefs don’t appear above your pants. 

With these tips in mind, there’s no doubt you’ll show up to your senior photo session looking and feeling good. 

Just remember, at Studio 21...

Your senior photo session is right around the corner and if you want to have the best possible experience, you need to prepare. The more prepared you are, the more relaxed you feel on the day, which comes through in your photos.

This senior photo session prep list will ensure you take all of the most important aspects into consideration prior to your shoot.

1. Book a hair appointment. This is included in your sitting fee at Studio 21. Your hair should look great for your senior session, so schedule a hair appointment the day before or the day of your session. You may want to book at least a week in advance.
2. Book a makeup session. This, too, is included in your sitting fee at Studio 21. If you are getting a professional to assist you with your makeup, book a makeup artist at least a month in advance for the day of your session.
3. Settle on an outfit/s. By now, you probably have a few outfits in mind for your shoot. Several days prior to your session, narrow down your outfits and make your final selection. This includes settling on accessories.
4. Schedule some general grooming. Small details show up in photos, so schedule some time for general grooming such as shaving and trimming and painting your nails.
5. Practice your poses. If you are feeling nervous about how to pose and how you will look on camera, spend time posing in a mirror. Know that your photographer is there to guide you, but it doesn’t hurt to practice a few expressions and poses a few days before your senior shoot.
6. Check the weather. The day before your senior session, make a point of checking the weather. This way, you can arrange to meet at a different location or at least bring along some warmer or cooler clothes. 

Along with this checklist, don’t forget to get enough sleep the night before, eat a decent meal the day of, and show up a few minutes before your shoot is meant to begin. You can now get excited about your professional photoshoot to commemorate your senior year. 

​Just remember, at Studio 21...

When it comes to scheduling your senior photo session, you have the option to either schedule a full or a mini session. Which option is right for you though? There are a few differences between traditional and mini photo sessions that you should consider as you plan your senior shoot.

Here is what you should be aware of:
- Traditional senior sessions are longer. While a traditional senior photo session lasts at least an hour, a mini session doesn’t take longer than 20 minutes. Photographers generally schedule several mini sessions in one day because they’re quick and simple.
- You can try more poses during a traditional session. If you have a lot of posing ideas, a mini session might not be for you. Mini senior photo sessions give you less time to experiment, so you need to have a specific idea of what you want.
- Outfit changes are reduced. Have more than one outfit in mind for your senior session? You will need to schedule a traditional photo session. With a mini senior session, there won’t be time for outfit changes.
- You receive fewer photos after a mini session. After a traditional senior photo session, you can expect to receive 40 – 60 photos, while a mini session only results in 10 – 20 images. In terms of retouching, mini sessions only offer minimal editing. - The costs are different. As you can imagine, a traditional senior photo session will cost more because it requires more of your photographer’s time. If you have a tight budget, a mini senior session might be a better option. 

So, which option is right for you? If you want to make the most of your senior session by incorporating different outfits, locations, and poses, a full senior session is an ideal choice. If you’re happy with a handful of photos shot at your favorite location wearing one great outfit, a mini session is perfect.

The photos of Ashlee, above, were taken during a full session. 
​
​Which option will you choose? 

We hope to hear from you soon!

Just remember, at Studio 21...

 If you haven’t been in front of a professional camera before, you might be feeling a little nervous and awkward in the lead-up to your senior photo session. Know that this is completely normal and that there are steps you can take to feel more relaxed.

When you feel more relaxed during your session, you enjoy it more and your photos look more natural too.

Here are some tips that will help:
     - Choose the right photographer. The photographer you use for your senior session makes a big difference to your entire experience. Along with looking at a photographer’s style, make sure you feel comfortable in their presence too. When your photographer is easy to talk to and makes you feel at ease, you will show up to your session feeling more relaxed too.
     - Use your eyes. If you feel that your smile is going to make you look awkward in photos, start by using your eyes to express emotion. It’s also recommended that you practice your smile and expressions in the mirror prior to your session. When smiling, focus on contracting the muscles in your face to make your smile look more natural. 
     - Get excited. On the day of your senior session, find ways to get excited. Make a fun breakfast, turn on your favorite music, and dance around. This is a milestone photo session and one that you should enjoy – it will never come around again. If you are feeling really nervous, get your friends to come along with you. 
     - Just breathe. This is a simple but effective tip. When we get nervous, we can often forget to breathe. Before you head out for your session, take some deep belly breaths. As you release each breath, smile, and notice how it changes your face – it will instantly relax you. 
     - Move. If you start feeling nervous as your session begins, move around. You don’t need to stick to one pose with a staged smile. Movement results in relaxation. Keep in mind that your photographer is also there to guide you, so let them know you’re feeling nervous. 
    - Look and feel good. When you look good, you feel good, which translates into confidence. If possible, get a professional to assist you with your hair and makeup. It’s also important to wear something you feel comfortable in. Your senior photo session is not the right time to try a new outfit for the first time. 

By sticking to these simple tips, you can look forward to senior photos that look natural and that you’ll want to share and display. 

We hope to hear from you soon!

Just remember, at Studio 21...

When potential customers or employers come across your online portfolio or profile, do you think your bio is giving them enough information and the right information?

As you start reviewing your bio, keep in mind that you have about 20 seconds to grab the attention of the person viewing it. Are you starting strong? Are you including intriguing details that will keep them interested? Try to establish credibility early on and don’t forget to share one or two of your biggest achievements as well as your goals.

Then there’s the length. Even though you want to provide the reader with detailed information, it’s important to keep your bio concise. In other words, give someone enough to spike their interest and to contact you for further details. Aim for about 300–500 words when constructing a bio.

Lastly, make sure your words match your headshots. If you have a fun headshot, make sure your wording reflects that while still being professional. Already have the perfect bio in place? Let us assist you with headshots that match. Reply to this blog to schedule a consultation.

You may know exactly what you want for your senior photoshoot, but you can’t achieve much without the right photographer. Whether you have just started your search or have been searching for a while, these tips will help.

• Consider the photographer’s style.

By now, you probably have a good idea of what you want your senior photos to look like. What you need to make sure of is that a photographer’s overall style matches your preferences. Do you want images that are slightly moody and artistic, or would you prefer bright and playful photos? Browse through your photographer’s portfolio to find out more about their style.

• It’s also important to look for consistency.

​
Does your photographer have a consistent style, or does it differ across their website and social media profiles?

• Review their experience.

Your photographer might be able to work a camera, but this doesn’t mean they should be taking your senior photos. When reviewing potential photographers, look at whether they have specific experience with senior photoshoots.

It’s also essential to read through any customer testimonials to get a better idea of what you can expect when working with a particular photographer. Any mentions of industry awards are also a good sign.

• Set a budget and shop accordingly.

Before you even start shopping around for a senior photographer, decide on a budget. This way, you can easily rule out potential photographers before you go to the trouble of reviewing their portfolios.

• Cheaper isn't always better.

A photographer who has the lowest prices is usually a beginner. Most professional photographers charge more because of their experience and their premium quality services and lux products.

And lastly, once you find a senior photographer you’re happy with, don’t wait to book them. It’s also best to have a backup choice should your first photographer not be available.

Your senior year deserves to be celebrated and commemorated, and there are so many fun ways to
do this – a photo session is one of them.

If you’ve never scheduled a professional photo session before or simply want to know what to
expect from a senior session, this guide covers the basics.

This is what you need to know…

The Before
- Yearbook deadlines. If your school is creating a yearbook, find out when they need your
digital photo file. This will help you plan ahead.
- The location. The location of your senior session should fit in with your personality and the
story you want to tell. Picture yourself doing what you love – where would that usually be?
There are always lots of great location ideas to choose from.
- Sooner rather than later. Photographers get a lot of requests for senior photo sessions, so
it’s best to schedule it a few months early to avoid missing out.
- The outfit. You can decide on an outfit once you’ve chosen your location, or you can do both
at the same time. Your outfit should also represent who you are and fit in with the location
you’ve chosen. Just make sure your outfit isn’t too distracting or it will end up being the
focus of your photos.
- Hair and makeup arrangements. Your photographer will have a professional HMU team.
Let them know your heart's desire right away. Don’t leave your hair and makeup arrangements for too
late either. Decide on your final look and whether or not you want to do your own hair and
makeup.

The During
- Set aside 2-4 hours. The average senior photo session takes 1 to 2 hours, so take a few hours
out of your day. This should include time to get ready.
- Bring your wardrobe. Make sure it is pet fur-free and wrinkle-free and on hangers.
- Meeting up. On the day of your session, you will meet your photographer at your location at
a specific time. There’s no need to be nervous. Your photographer is there to make sure you
have a good time and get the photos you’ve envisioned.
- Prepare to change outfits. Some seniors prefer to bring along an extra outfit to changes into
during their shoot. This is because one outfit might look better in a certain location than
another. You can discuss this with your photographer ahead of time.
- Bring some company. If having a friend or family member with you will make you feel more
comfortable, bring someone along. Just don’t bring too many people or they could end up
being a distraction more than anything else.
- Sign a model release. Your photographer will also require you to sign a model release form
before you leave your photo session.

The After
-Ordering session. You photographer will have a gallery for you to view so you can order the wall art, albums, or any products they offer.
-The wait. It takes two or three weeks for your photographer to complete your images and your order, so you will
need to be patient.
-As soon as your gorgeous portrait products are ready, you will pick them up at the photographer's studio.
- Now, it is time to share and enjoy. 

This is a basic idea of what you can expect from your senior photo session. Don’t be shy to ask your
photographer more questions if you have any. 

As always, all of your questions will be answered during your commentary consultation. Call or text anytime 217-962-0048 

If you have ever been too embarrassed to share your selfies or headshots, know that you are not alone.
Not every person or photographer knows how to take a good headshot, but does this mean you should consider retaking yours?
There are a few reasons why people end up hating their headshots. The first is because you can't get your cellphone at a good angle or the photographer was rushed. Mini sessions are affordable and convenient, but in the hands of the wrong photographer, you can end up with poor-quality images.
The second reason is that the photographer never took the time to get to know the person in front of the camera. It doesn’t take a lot to ask a few questions to better understand the kind of headshots a client needs.
Lastly, it’s because the photographer didn’t take the time to explain the basics of the session. When you don’t love having your photo taken, it helps to receive some guidance to help you feel more comfortable.
If you think it’s time to update your headshots or to dump those selfies, we are here to provide you with a more positive experience the second (or third) time around.
Reply to this article and we will send you our available dates. You can also review our portfolio www.melissamharden.com/headshots to see what we can do.

Your friends are an integral part of your school years, so it only makes sense to take a few photos together to commemorate your senior year. An important part of planning your senior photo session is deciding on the poses and shots you would like to take. Your photographer will thank you too. Here are a few ideas to inspire you.  

1. The Inside Joke. If there’s one thing all friends share, it’s a few inside jokes. Grab a shot of you and your besties talking and laughing together. Aim to walk towards the camera so that the photographer can capture your faces and outfits.
2. The Line-Up. Including more than just one best friend in your senior photos? Get the girls to line up with their backs towards the camera, your arms around each other’s waists, and your legs criss crossed for a great group shot. For the guys, you can place your hands on each other’s shoulders.
3. The Gowns. The iconic gown should make it into at least a few of your best friend shots. Have everyone walk towards the camera, laughing and smiling. You can even throw a few balloons into the mix for some added character.
4. The Year. Find a way to highlight the current year in your senior photos. You and your bestie can hold up a blackboard or even write the year across your feet, which will face the camera.
5. The Fun Signs. On the topic of props, you can also incorporate some fun signs into a few of your shots. “Finally” and “We Did It!” are great options.
6. The Hug. There are few things that feel as good as a hug from your best friend, which is why this makes for such a great senior shot. Embrace your friend in a way that your photographer can see both your faces. Another option is to capture a side hug from the back.
7. The Team. Were you and your best friend a part of the same sports team? Bring some memorabilia into your shots to highlight this special link you both share.
8. The Hat Toss. If you will be wearing hats on graduation day, don’t forget to capture a photo where your friend group throws their hats into the air.
9. The Confetti Shot. Add a little sparkle to your senior photos with beautiful dresses and confetti. You can have the confetti falling down around you and your friends or blow it towards the camera.
10. The Other Perspective. Get a few shots from a completely different angle by lying down with your head next to your best friend’s. Your photographer can then capture your faces from above.

There are so many ways to capture senior photos with your best friends. If you need any extra inspiration, speak to your photographer or browse through their portfolio.

​Just remember, at Studio 21...

When it’s so easy to take out your phone and take a good photo, you might be wondering whether it’s really necessary to hire a professional photographer for your senior photo session.

Most smartphones have some impressive cameras and they’re great for capturing your everyday moments with friends and family. However, your phone won’t quite hit the mark for your senior portraits – here’s why. 

• Your Photographer Has Experience. There are a number of elements that make for a good photo and a photographer knows how to bring them together. What’s more, they can help guide you during your senior shoot, which can be helpful if you’ve never posed for important photos before.
• They Know How to Use a Location to Their Advantage. The location of your senior shoot matters, as does the lighting. When you work with a professional photographer, you benefit from someone who knows how to use their surroundings to create beautiful images. Over and above that, your photographer can provide you with the best location options based on your vision for your shoot.   
• They Have the Equipment. Your smartphone’s camera might be impressive, but it will never match up to professional cameras, lenses, and accessories. When you hire a professional senior photographer, you are also hiring their equipment. Plus, professional equipment is necessary for different scenarios, including bad weather and indoor shots. - Editing is a Part of the Package. It’s one thing to add a filter to a photo and another to edit it in a way that highlights all your best features at once. A professional photographer can edit your images in ways that are natural but eye-catching.
• They Bring an Artistic Eye. When you work with a professional senior photographer, their job is to bring your vision to life. However, you can also benefit from their artistic eye – you might end up using ideas you never even thought of.

​In the end, this is a big milestone, one that deserves professional photos. Your senior photo session is an investment and an experience you won’t soon forget.

​We hope to hear from you soon!

Just remember, at Studio 21...

​When was the last time you reviewed your headshots? Do you think they’re still relevant?

Regardless of the industry you are in, your headshots matter. How people perceive you is directly linked to the images you use to market yourself as a professional.

To help you better decide whether it might be time for a headshot update, here are a few things to consider:

1. Headshots Help Build Relationships. Want to form a stronger connection with customers or potential employers? Show them your face. A great headshot can portray your personality and authenticity more clearly and help build a great connection with your audience. Plus, if your appearance has changed in recent years, there has never been a better time to update your headshots. What people see online should be what they get in person.

2. It’s Not Just for LinkedIn. When people think headshots, LinkedIn generally jumps to mind first, but this is not the only use. Headshots can be used almost anywhere you want to promote yourself. From your business cards and website to a flyer for an event you’re speaking at–they are a worthwhile investment.

3. You Need a Professional Photographer. Before you decide to take a few selfies, consider the benefits of having professional headshots. Not only do you have a professional photographer to guide you, but the equipment and editing software that’s used makes all the difference to the end result.

Take a closer look at your existing headshots. Are you happy to keep sharing them with the world? Or is it time for an update?

Reply to this blog to find out more about available headshot slots.

We are looking forward to capturing headshot you will love!

Your senior year is going to be one of the most memorable times in your life and what better way to
keep those memories alive than with a senior photo session. However, your experience and photos
are only as good as your photographer, so you need to choose wisely.

Luckily, it’s much easier than you might think. Here are 3 simple tips that will help.

1. Homework is a Must
Yes, it can take some time but finding the right senior photographer is well worth the effort. Along
with using a trustworthy search engine, you can also do some searches on social media sites such as
Instagram and Pinterest – this will give you a good idea of the photographer’s capabilities. Read
through any reviews that are available as these are invaluable.

2. Stick to the Pros
It might be tempting to get a friend or amateur to take your senior photos, but it’s a huge risk. You
could spend weeks planning everything from your location and outfit to the props you want to use
only to be left with photos you don’t want to share. When you work with a pro, you can be sure they
will understand how to translate your vision into photos you love!

3. Stick to a Senior Photographer
A photographer can have many different specialties, but it’s advisable to pick a photographer that
actually photographs seniors. It’s fine if they also specialize in other forms of photography, but
senior photography should be one of them. These photographers know what looks good for these
types of photos, ensuring you will be happy. If you will be searching on social media, start by
searching for hashtags related to seniors to help narrow down your search.

There you have it, you’re now ready to start your search. 

Let's schedule your complimentary consultation today!

Anyone who hasn’t been in front of a professional camera before or simply doesn’t like photos can
end up looking a bit stiff when posing.

It’s completely natural to feel nervous before your senior photoshoot, but you still want your images
to look natural and highlight your personality and style.

Here are a few ways that you can pose more naturally and enjoy your upcoming session.

1. Keep It Light-Hearted
One way to feel more relaxed throughout your session is to talk to your photographer. Get
comfortable, be a little silly, and have some fun. The result is photos that look more authentic. Your
photographer is there to get to know you and make sure you enjoy yourself. If you haven’t found a
photographer yet, make sure you choose someone you feel comfortable with.

2. Lean Back Slightly
This is a very slight lean and should be done from your waist. This minor movement stops your body
from tensing, making you look more natural in your photos. Yes, it’s going to feel weird at first but
don’t overthink it.

3. Lean Into the Frame
Another way to make your poses more natural is to lean into the frame. Again, this needs to be very
slight, almost as if you’re leaning in to listen to someone telling a story. If you had to try doing this
right now, you would immediately see how your posture and demeanor changes.

4. Keep Your Hands Busy
It’s only until you’re standing in front of a camera that you realize your arms and hands aren’t doing
anything. To stop your poses from becoming awkward, keep your hands busy. Place your hands in
your pockets, twirl a finger around a lock of hair, or use some props. What you do with your hands
depends on the photo style and story you’ve decided on.

5. Get Moving
Not every photo needs to be posed, you also have the freedom to move around and have some fun.
Walk, spin, laugh, lay on the grass, do whatever makes you feel most like yourself. If you’re not sure
what to do, ask your photographer for some guidance – they are there to help.

It’s important not to overthink your session. When you get too nervous about doing the right thing,
the anxiety will automatically affect how you look in your photos. Do something that will help you
feel more relaxed before your session and let your photographer help you with the rest. 

We can plan your senior session during your complimentary consultation.  It only takes less than thirty minutes!
217-962-0048 Call or text

There are a number of decisions you need to make when planning a senior photo session and
choosing a location is one of them. You can’t choose just any location either – it needs to fit in with
your personality and the style of your shoot.

Here are a few tips to help you narrow down your options a little quicker.

- Decide what you want your photos to say about you. Who are you? Do you love the
outdoors, art, sports? Are you a bit of a flower child? By jotting down the things you love, a
few location ideas should spring to mind. Your photos need to showcase your personal style,
so choose your location accordingly.

- Look for locations with different features. To ensure your photographer can capture a
variety of photos, look for a location with different spots and features. Examples of features
include fences, trees, a swing, water or anything that could act as a backdrop.

- Find out about possible restrictions. If you’re considering using a commercial location, find
out whether you need a permit to take photos. Keep in mind that permits can sometimes
take several weeks to process.

- Consider timing. Some locations are busier than others and if you want to avoid crowds of
people, you will need to time your shoot well. It’s better to have as little people in the
background of your photos as possible.

- Lighting matters too. Natural light is a must for photos, including your senior portraits. You
could have the best background, but if the lighting is bad, you won’t get the best results. It’s
also important to remember that you might need to time your shoot around the best
lighting.

- Decide what you want to wear. The outfit you choose for your senior photo session also
matters when choosing a location. For example, wearing an evening dress to the park
doesn’t exactly work very well. Your outfit should also match your personality, so decide on
this before you start looking at locations.

- Get creative. There are no set rules when it comes to choosing a location for your photo
session. Get creative, think outside the box, and choose a location that suits you. Ask around
about interesting venues, take a drive through your city, or turn to Pinterest for some
inspiration.

If all else fails, explain your vision to your photographer – they will have a number of location
suggestions to offer. 

Call 217-962-0048 so we can plan your senior session!

There is no one answer to when you should book your senior photo session – there are several
variables to take into consideration.

Availability

To ensure you find a time that works for you, start by looking at your availability. You never realize
just how little time you have until you try and work a photoshoot into a busy senior year. Before you
know it, it’s a month before you graduate, and you don’t have a date for your session yet.

For example, many extra-curricular activities take place in the fall, leaving very little time for a senior
photo session. If you are more involved in sports such as softball, spring is a difficult season to plan
around.

The main goal is to not be stressed before or on the day of your senior session – it will show in your
photos. On the day of your shoot, you want to be relaxed and enjoy every second.

The Theme

Most likely you already have some idea of the types of photos you want to take to commemorate
your senior year. Outfits play an integral role in the overall style of your shoot. If you want to wear a
beautiful boho outfit for your senior session, shooting in winter isn’t quite going to work. Get a clear
idea of the style you would prefer before you choose a date for your photo session.

The Location

Your location will also fit in with the theme of your shoot. However, not all locations and settings
look good at certain times of the year. Want an urban shoot? This works at almost any time of the
year. Prefer to take photos at a local park? Spring and fall create the best backdrops.

There really is no right or wrong time to schedule your shoot, you just need to plan for it. The minute
you have an idea of what your senior schedule will look like, start selecting a few dates – you won’t
be sorry.

Call/text Melissa for your free consultation 217-962-0048 

It’s the start of spring, which means it’s time to set new professional goals and map out the coming months.

If your 2023 plan includes leveling up in your industry, or you plan to enter an entirely new industry, you’re going to need headshots to go along with it.

Perhaps you already have some headshots–is there really a need to take new ones?
The answer is a resounding, yes!

As with most other things, headshots have changed. New trends have emerged and it’s clear to see who has adopted them and who hasn’t when you browse online profiles. Notice the profiles that stand out.

Naturally, your headshot should always match your industry if you want to get hired. If professionals in your sector dress in suits, you probably should too. The good news is there are ways to integrate industry norms with today's headshot trends.

Headshots can be centered around vibrant colors and both natural and dramatic studio lighting. And, with easier access to hair and makeup professionals, as well as high-end photographic equipment, headshots are now more about the close-up.

Backgrounds are also playing a more integral role as they give the viewer some extra insights into your personality and profession.

Basically, it’s about using the finer details to help you stand out among your peers.

Your headshots are one of the easiest and most effective ways to level up your professional profile online and we want to help.

Reply to this blog to get [special offer] on your 2023 headshot session.

Warmly,
Melissa

You deserve recognition and to celebrate this important milestone!

Here are the elements you need to focus on.

The Guest List
Deciding who you want to invite will help you determine whether you need a venue, entertainment, and a caterer. Do you just want it to be family or friends and family? How many people do you plan to invite? Will it be a grand party or something more intimate?

Set a Budget

Sit down with your parents and work out a budget for the party. Start by listing what is most important to you and allocating budget towards that first. Whatever is leftover can be used to pay for small extras.

Search for Venues

Many seniors choose to have their parties right at home. If you would prefer to hire a venue, start searching for something in your area that fits in with your theme and your budget. Once you have a shortlist, find out about venue hire fees and whether you have to purchase food and drinks directly from them. Being able to supply your own food and drinks always works out much cheaper.

Decide on the Food

Food that’s easy to make and eat is a popular choice for graduation parties, unless you prefer to have a more formal sit-down meal. If you are having a party at home, opt for food you can prepare the day before. The other option is to have a caterer take care of the food for you. In fact, many restaurants are catering parties now too. If you have some additional budget, you could even consider a food truck.
​
Plan Your Décor & Entertainment

This is one of the best parts of planning a graduation party. Once you decide on a theme, create a Pinterest board and start collecting ideas. There is so much you can create right at home without spending a fortune. Whatever theme you decide on, have fun with it and make it your own. In terms of entertainment, a good playlist is all you really need. However, if you want to go big, you could hire a local band or DJ, or set up a games area. Since you will be sharing this celebration with the people you love the most, ask your senior photographer about photo booth options too.

Remember, this is your graduation party, which means you don’t need to do what everyone else is doing. Celebrate in style, your way! 

With the help of the right photographer, you can catch the attention of more casting directors and agents. In fact, visuals can often make or break your chances of landing your dream audition, which is why it’s essential to get your headshots right.

Here are some tips that will help:

- Stick with a basic backdrop
When it comes to taking professional acting headshots, a basic studio backdrop is a better bet. This way, you minimize any distractions and keep the focus on you. It’s fine to shoot headshots on location, but you should still ensure your background is fairly simple.

- Practice your facial expressions
Before you schedule a headshot session, take a look at what other professionals are doing in terms of poses. Once you find a few poses and expressions you like, practice them in a mirror prior to your photo session. Knowing how you want to pose will also make time for more headshots while you’re in studio. And since you want to walk away with a variety of photos, make sure you are going to your session with a variety of poses in mind.

- Don’t overthink your outfit
Since headshots focus more on your head and shoulders, you don’t need to overthink your outfit too much. Stick to solid colors and statement pieces such as a blouse or blazer. You should also be wary of any accessories that might take the focus off your face. With that being said, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t plan your outfit at all (you definitely should), but it’s okay to stick with something basic, but professional.

- Think twice about the photographer you choose
Picking the right photographer will make a big difference to your results as well as your overall experience. Only go with photographers that offer headshot sessions and preferably, someone who works with actors specifically. Don’t forget to review their portfolio to ensure you like their photography style.

With these simple tips in mind, you are on your way to taking better headshots that will benefit your career as an actor.

Contact Melissa to schedule your headshot appointment!

Senior portraits can be displayed just about anywhere, but there are certain spots in a home where they really stand out.

To help you think outside the box, we have put together a few ideas you can use once you receive your child’s senior portrait prints.

Use Your Favorite Spots

Which spots in your home do you love spending time in? This could be anywhere from a dressing area, to the living or laundry room. Add one of the prints to a frame, so that you always have a special reminder of this important milestone. 

Over the Fireplace

Have a fireplace in your home? This is the perfect place to hang a senior portrait, whether it is framed or printed on canvas. If you have more than one child, you can create a small photo wall above your fireplace, so that everyone gets a spot. 

Change Up Your Bookshelf

Yes, your bookshelf is designed to house books, but this doesn’t mean you only need to use it for reading material. Get creative by combining your favorite books with one or two framed senior portraits and other knick knacks.

Move Away from Frames

If your décor has more of an artistic feel, you can always place small canvas prints on easels. These look great on side tables in either the bedroom or living room. Plus, they make for instant conversation starters about your senior. 

Spruce Up Your Foyer

It’s always nice to be met with beautiful family photos and portraits when you enter a home. Change up the frame sizes and colors to create movement and to add a creative touch to your foyer. 

Incorporate Them into Their Grad Party

Planning to host a grad party at home for your senior? Why not use some of their creative shots as décor? This is a party to celebrate them, after all, so make them the center of attention in every way possible. If you want to take it one step further, you can even use these professional photos to create Christmas decorations.

Whatever you do, make sure that you print your child’s senior photos. You are hiring a professional photographer for the occasion, so make it count.

Call or text Melissa at 217-962-0048 or click here to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Warmly,
​Melissa

For most parents, senior portraits are a distant memory. They have changed a lot over the last two decades, incorporating more creativity and individuality than ever before.
Seniors have a lot more options available to them, ranging from traditional sessions in a studio to trendy urban shoots. This is the perfect opportunity for them to showcase their unique talents, passions, and personality, while also creating a lasting memory.
However, with all the available options, portrait sessions can quickly become overwhelming for both parents and seniors.
Here are a few quick tips to help you prepare for your child’s upcoming senior session.

Make a Note of the Yearbook Deadline

Knowing the yearbook deadline encourages you to schedule a senior session instead of putting it off until the last minute. Depending on your requirements, a senior photo session will start with a yearbook portrait followed by creative shots that are unique to your child. In most instances, it takes at least 2 weeks to receive the final images, so plan accordingly.

Keep Your Senior’s Schedule in Mind

As a parent of a senior, you already know how frantic their schedules can be. Before you go ahead and schedule a session, sit down with your senior to discuss a good time. They should be just as involved in the planning as you are. Even the specific time of day matters when scheduling a senior session. Ideally, you want to take photos just after sunrise and just before sunset, as this is when the lighting’s the best. However, the right photographer can make any time of the day work. Midday should be a last resort though as the lighting is far too harsh. 

Compromise with Your Child

You may have a specific idea about the photos you would like to see, but this is about your child and what makes them feel confident and comfortable. Most senior sessions allow for several outfit changes, so use this as an opportunity to find a happy balance between what you want and what your senior wants. Be patient and hear them out before you brush off their ideas. Their portraits should represent who they are and what they love. 

Encourage Sharing

Prior to a senior session, get your child to open up about their passions, hopes, and dreams. This information will help guide the shoot and ensure the most authentic photos. Knowing what your senior wants these photos to represent will also guide their outfit and location choices.

Don’t forget to include your senior in the search for a photographer – a photographer’s style needs to fit in with the images you hope to create. 

If you would like to schedule a free, in-studio consultation, just click here: Schedule

Warmly,
​Melissa M. Harden

Driving east on Route 16, toward Charleston, IL for twenty years or more there was a billboard proudly displaying a headshot of an insurance agent. The longer it was up, the more faded it got. The years of sun-bleaching made that man appear younger and younger. Now, if that were only the case in real life… that we look younger as we grow older….
So back to the question, is it time to update your headshots? Ask yourself these questions;
Have you

• changed your hair color,
• lost or gained weight, 
• had corrective eye surgery, or
• made a significant change to your appearance?

If so, now is the time for an update.
Having an old, outdated headshot can cue your future clients to think perhaps you just don’t care. Clothing trends, hair style, and background can tip a savvy client to whether or not this is a fresh or an archaic version of you.
Below are headshots of Haley Watkins, owner and operator of Sapphire Salon and Spa in Mattoon. Her hair color was a perfect reason to update her headshots. So, if it's time for you to get fresh headshots. Please call me at 217-962-0048 for details and we can set up an appointment. It’s truly a quick process and I’ve been told multiple times that it’s painless to boot!
Hope to see you soon!