The Senior Photo Checklist You Need

Senior Photo Session 101: The Prep Checklist You Need
Your senior photo session is just around the corner, and you’re about to create memories that last a lifetime. The secret to a stress-free, fabulous experience? Preparation! When you’re well-prepped, you’ll feel relaxed and confident, and trust us—that confidence will shine through in your photos.
Here’s your ultimate checklist to make sure everything is picture-perfect:

1. Book Your Hair Appointment Guess what? At Studio 21, your hair appointment is included in your sitting fee. 🎉 Whether you want polished waves or a sleek style, great hair is the crown of every senior photo. Book your appointment for the day before or the day of your shoot, but don’t wait—schedule it at least a week in advance.

2. Book Your Makeup Session Yes, your sitting fee also covers a professional makeup session! Our team will help you achieve a flawless look that enhances your natural beauty. Be sure to schedule this for the day of your session, and book at least a month in advance to secure your spot.

3. Lock in Your Outfits By now, you’ve probably brainstormed a few outfit ideas (and maybe raided your closet). Narrow it down to your favorites a few days before your session. Don’t forget to coordinate accessories and make sure everything is clean, wrinkle-free, and ready to go. Pro tip: Avoid outfits with loud patterns—they can distract from you!

4. Groom Like a Pro It’s all in the details! Schedule time for grooming—whether that’s shaving, trimming, or touching up your nails. The camera captures it all, so a little extra effort will make a big difference.

5. Practice Your Poses Feeling a little unsure about how to pose? That’s normal! Spend some time in front of a mirror practicing a few expressions and angles. Don’t worry, your photographer will guide you every step of the way, but a little practice can help you feel more at ease.

6. Check the Weather The day before your session, take a peek at the forecast. If the weather isn’t cooperating, you might need to adjust the location or bring along extra layers. We’ll make sure your shoot goes off without a hitch, rain or shine!

Bonus Tips for the Big Day

• Get a Good Night’s Sleep: A well-rested face is a happy face!
• Fuel Up: Eat a solid meal before your session so you have energy for all the smiling and posing.
• Arrive Early: Showing up a few minutes ahead of time keeps things stress-free.

Now that you’re prepared, it’s time to get excited! Your senior photo session is more than just a photoshoot—it’s a celebration of your journey and a moment to shine. At Studio 21, we’ll make sure it’s unforgettable.
Ready to get started? Call or text us at 217-962-0048. Let’s make magic happen! 

Your favorite photographer,
Melissa M. Harden at Studio 21