Senior Photos with Oleson Photography

What you need to know

My husband and I love capturing senior portraits. It’s an opportunity for us to get creative and to help incorporate your personality and interests in your photos.

1. Be flexible and come prepared

   Alaska weather and terrain can be unpredictable but sometimes it’s a blessing for Justin and I to get creative with your senior session. If your session is today and you’re a little disappointed with the weather because it’s not bright and sunny, don't fret. Ideally, we want a cloudy or partly cloudy day for pictures. This creates even lighting throughout the whole image. If there’s a little rain, wind, or fog embrace the change, you’re in good hands. We will reach out to you if we need to reschedule due to extreme weather conditions.

   Come prepared with an extra pair of shoes: mud boots or rain boots that way if we end up taking a little detour to another location we’re all prepared for the terrain. If your senior session is in the winter, come prepared with hand warmers, extra coats, and a blanket. You can place extra hand warmers in your winter boots with your socks and in the pockets of your winter coat. I did this during my wedding pictures in the Alaska winter and it was a life saver!

2. What to wear

   We encourage our seniors to wear what makes them feel comfortable yet presentable. We advised against graphic t-shirts or logos. If you have further questions on wardrobe choice or color choice please reach out directly as this also depends on skin color and what the colors of your surrounding environment will be. For example in the fall, when the leaves are turning orange we generally advise against clients wearing any orange.

3. Hair & Makeup

   Not every girl is comfortable with makeup. Personally, I only wear it on special occasions like church or formal events. But for senior photos it will help bring out the best parts of your face. Keep your skin looking natural when you do your makeup and do your makeup in natural lighting. Wearing makeup will accentuate the best parts of you, especially your eyes! Put a little more eye makeup on than what you are used too. In might look heavy while you’re putting it on, but it will be the perfect amount through the camera lens.

4. Bring items from home

   As a graduate we want you to incorporate your interests in your pictures. Do you play Baseball? Volleyball? Football? Do you paint? Draw? Read? Bake? Do you just like to ride your bike? Bring it along! Hopefully this helps you relax and have fun with your session.