Getting Ready Tips for a Senior Portrait Session on Martha's Vineyard
Summer vacations are important punctuation for the years of schooling. As kids grow into adults, the senior portrait represents a significant milestone—the end of a chapter of education and the beginning of greater autonomy and intellectual responsibility. Martha's Vineyard has represented summer to many generations and been a part of so many upbringings. Its dunes, beaches, and trails are the perfect backdrop for soulful and authentic senior portraits that show a young adult anchored by their experience and ready to tackle the challenges of the world. I coordinate with parents or seniors themselves to find the places that hold meaning for them or that create the ideal backdrops for their portraits. We will work to make sure they have a selection of photos that they feel represent them and convey their identity to the world. Lamberts Cove Beach, Cedar Tree Neck, Edgartown Lighthouse and Harbor, and Menemsha are all great places to begin to think about where you want your senior session to be.
I am so excited to capture everything that makes you beautiful—both inside and out. Senior portrait sessions take place right before sunset at a golden hour during the best natural light. Please try to arrive at least 15 minutes early to make sure you’re as relaxed as possible, and everything is prepared before we begin. If you’re having your hair and makeup professionally done, definitely allow extra time between your appointments and your session because hair and makeup artists notoriously take longer than expected.
Senior Portrait, East Chop Beach, Oak Bluffs. Martha’s Vineyard
THE DAYS BEFORE
Try on outfits beforehand! A lot of my clients like to take selfies in the mirror about a week beforehand to ask for my advice on their choice of wardrobe, and I’m always very happy to give tips and pointers.
If you’re having hair and makeup professionally done (which I highly recommend), make your appointments far in advance. Allow at least two hours between your beauty appointments and the photoshoot.
I highly recommend bringing 2-3 outfits to the shoot so we have lots of options to play with. Make sure to bring several changes of clothing, shoes, and accessories so we can mix and match on the day of your session. Bring as many options as you like, and I’ll help you choose what will give the best results on camera!
Senior Portrait, Edgartown Lighthouse Harbor Beach, Martha’s Vineyard
TIPS & TRICKS
We'll be doing a lot of poses with your hands and a lot of close-ups facial shots. It's important to make sure that your nails look good.
If you happen to have tan lines from enjoying the sun on the Vineyard, make sure to choose outfits that strategically cover them up.
Relax and enjoy the session. We'll chat a lot! Be ready to hear some fun prompts!
Senior Portrait, Aquinnah Public Beach or Moshup, Martha’s Vineyard
I can’t wait to document this very special time in your life and have a great time in the process. I hope you enjoy the session as much as I do. I know it’s all so exciting, but if possible, please make sure to get a good night’s rest before the session.
