Back when I was graduating, senior pictures were done in a studio with fake props. They felt awkward, forced, and impersonal. I felt that my photos looked stiff but that’s how we did it back in the day. We didn’t know any better. So ‘awkward’ was the standard.
Now, senior pictures have been taken to a whole new level. Schools still offer in-studio, backdrop-included graduation photos. But when you work with a professional photographer, you will find the experience is way different.
It’s your big moment to shine and to proudly show off all the work you’ve accomplished. This is something you want to remember forever.
Professional photographers bring experience to the table, knowing how to work their camera, choosing the best locations to shoot, composing a beautiful photo, and posing you. But more importantly, we want you to have fun and for your personality to shine! A portrait is not a true portrait if it doesn’t look like you.
Senior pictures are a big deal! So make sure you choose the right photographer for you. Here are a few questions to ask yourself as you’re picking one:
Although 2020 hasn’t been the most ideal year for graduates (with the COVID-19 causing a cancellation or delay in their ceremonies), these grads killed it and are on their way to new and exciting adventures! Let’s give them (and all grads) some recognition and a big ‘congratulations’!!!
Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School graduate
**Can I just say how much I love her first outfit? Being a huge fan of Lilly Pulitzer myself, I was so excited when she walked up wearing it. Plus, how lovely do the vibrant colors look against the neutral colored sand, gorgeous blue water, and all the greenery?!**
Vista Del Lago High School graduate (attending Lynn University in the Fall)
Florida Atlantic University graduate
I’m a huge fan of champagne-popping! Champagne can be expensive, and drinking in public is illegal, so another option is sparkling cider, especially if you’re tempted to drink it!
Want to know how to make the champagne pop and spray? These tips are described by CyclingTips.
1. Pre-shake champagne bottle before attempting to open. Shake vigorously in a vertical motion. Note the PRO stance. Hunched forward, one foot back for balance, baseball cap on straight.
2. Once champagne is cocked and loaded, it’s time to open. Note the little metal wire around the cork . You need to twist this wire in a counter-clockwise motion to unwind it from the cork.
3. Once you get the wire off the cork, it’s time to get the cork itself off. This is another tricky part, but with proper technique it can be very elegant. To get the cork off, hold the bottle in one hand and the thumb of the other hand pressing on the cork. Press upwards, away from the bottle and the pressure should release the cork 15 meters into the air. I know…the PROs make it look easier that it actually is…
4. Once the cork is off you NEED to create more pressure by blocking the bottle opening with your thumb so the champagne actually sprays out of the bottle. Continue shaking while spraying.
If you have access to your cap and gown, bring it!!! Aside from the graduation ceremony, you will probably never see it again so take photos with it on and/or use it as a prop!
Like Samantha, your Florida senior pictures are a perfect opportunity to update your Facebook and LinkedIn profiles. It’s important to look professional!
Confetti is also a great prop to use, and so much fun! However, please keep in mind that we want to respect and take care of our world. I recommend checking out Ecofetti and these biodegradable confetti.
Nova Southeastern University graduate
Graduating or in need of a fun portrait session that allow your personality to shine? I’d love to chat about your vision and how we can bring it to life!