Senior Prep Guide

Senior Prep Guide

First Things First... Let's get that location pinned down!

The key to picking the perfect location is to first decide what type of vibe you want. Do you want fields of flowers or fields with cows (yes I have that), or do you prefer more of an urban downtown style? Once you know the type of vibe you’re going for, you can narrow down your location choices from one of the suggestions below, or give me your own suggestion! There’s not much I won’t try.  

Locations within 35 miles are included in your fee. There will be a small mileage fee for outside this area. Looking for that beach or destination session? Let’s talk.

The key to picking the perfect location is to first decide what type of vibe you want. Do you want fields of flowers or fields with cows (yes I have that), or do you prefer more of an urban downtown style? Once you know the type of vibe you’re going for, you can narrow down your location choices from one of the suggestions below, or give me your own suggestion! There’s not much I won’t try.  

Locations within 35 miles are included in your fee. There will be a small mileage fee for outside this area. Looking for that beach or destination session? Let’s talk.  

Here’s a list of some of the best places within 50 miles of Baton Rouge for senior and family photography sessions, based on their scenic qualities, variety of backdrops, and accessibility. I’ve included pricing information where available, though some locations may require contacting management directly for the most current rates. These spots offer a mix of urban, natural, and historical settings to suit different styles and preferences. Click here to access my blog on picking your location.

1. LSU Hilltop Arboretum, Baton Rouge

2. Downtown Baton Rouge

3. LSU Botanic Gardens at Burden Museum & Gardens, Baton Rouge

4. Afton Villa Gardens, St. Francisville

5. Greenwood Plantation, St. Francisville

6. Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site, St. Francisville

7. BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center, Baton Rouge

8.Williams Family Farms, Tickfaw

Once you have chosen your location, let me know and I will help you determine the best time to go so that we can get the best lighting for you! Just remember that your location will affect how the light looks. It's hard to get a dark and moody portfolio is you are shooting in the gardens! Also, if you have chosen more than one location, we need to make sure that they are fairly close to each other. Nothing disrupts a photoshoot flow like travel! 

If you are still stuck and have no idea what you want then that’s where I come in. As long as you know what kind of vibe you want for your session, I can help you find a place that is perfect! 

I Picked a Location, Now What Do I Wear?

Feeling comfortable in your clothes is going to make such a huge difference to how you act in front of the camera. Wearing something that showcases who you are and that you already know you love will give you that boost of confidence that you might need! So then, what to wear?! 

We’ve established that you must feel fabulous in whatever you’re wearing, but if options don’t come immediately to mind, here are some tips that might help you out!

1. Think about the location. It might be hard to move around through a field in heels! We will probably walk a coupe of miles, so If your signature look is a pair of heels, remember to bring a pair of sneakers or slides!
2. Solid color or small print outfits tend to look better than large, loud or bold prints, which can be distracting and overwhelming. If you do go with a print, make sure it’s not too loud! If you are a bold person, opt for a super fun pair of shoes or showcase it with your accessories, rather than a bold print!
3. Start with a neutral base and build from there. Neutral tones are typically more flattering and cohesive than bright colours. Pick two or three neutrals to start with and then add little accents of color if you want! 
4. Consider the weather! Make sure you’re prepared with cute coats if it’s rainy or chilly. The temperature drops substantially when the sun starts to go down!
5. Bring sweaters and jackets! Layers make great pictures, and these items can actually be held as props. A P-coat, cute leather jacket, suit coat or letterman jackets are all good options.  
6. Bring at least 2 outfit changes so that you have three full outfits.  I will bring a portable changing tent to make it easy to change whenever you like!

Tips to Prepare For Your Session

You might be thinking, “okay, we’ve got our location and we know what we’re wearing, what else is there to know?”  These tips will help you ensure that your session is perfect!

1. Plan Your Haircut or Trim About 2 Weeks Before

If you’re thinking about freshening up your hairstyle, try to schedule a haircut or trim about two weeks before your session. This gives your hair a little time to settle in and look natural—avoiding that “just-cut” stiffness that can sometimes happen. It’s all about having you look like the best version of yourself, with a style that feels comfortable and familiar.

2. Be Mindful with Spray Tans or Self-Tanners

A glowing tan can be gorgeous for photos, but spray tans or self-tanners need a little extra care. Double-check areas like your hands (especially around nails), feet, elbows, and knees to make sure the color looks even and natural. Uneven patches or orange tones can distract from your lovely smile, and we want all the focus on you looking radiant!

3. Treat Yourself to a Manicure and Pedicure

Your hands and feet might make an appearance in your photos—whether you’re holding something or showing off cute shoes—so a manicure and pedicure can add that polished touch. Clean, neat nails in a color you love can boost your confidence and tie your whole look together. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference!

4. Keep Your Clothes Wrinkle-Free

Wrinkled clothes can steal attention in photos, and we don’t want that! Before your session, give your outfits a quick once-over. A little steaming or ironing goes a long way to keep everything looking crisp and sharp. You’ll feel more put-together, and the photos will have that clean, timeless vibe.

5. Consider Professional Hair and Makeup (If You’d Like!)

If it’s in your budget and feels right for you, having your hair and makeup done by a pro can be a game-changer. It’s not just about looking good—it’s about feeling amazing and letting your personality shine through without the stress of DIY. Of course, if you’re a wizard with your own makeup brush, go for it! Whatever makes you feel most “you” is perfect.

6. Opt for Solid Colors Over Busy Patterns

When picking your outfits, solid colors tend to photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your face. Very busy prints, stripes, or polka dots can sometimes clash or distract in pictures. Think of your clothing as a frame that highlights you, not competes with you. Soft, simple tones often create a classic, flattering look.

7. Choose Clothes That Flatter You

Wear what makes you feel fantastic! If you’re unsure about how an outfit looks, try snapping a quick phone photo of yourself from the front and back. This little trick helps you see how it fits and moves, so you can avoid anything that draws attention to areas you’re less confident about. The goal is for you to feel comfortable and gorgeous in every shot.

8. Check Dark Clothing for Pet Hair and Lint

If you’re wearing darker colors (which can look so chic!), give them a quick check for pet hair or lint. These little specks love to show up in photos, especially under bright lights. A lint roller is your best friend here—it’s an easy fix to keep your look sleek and spotless.

9. Bring Props That Show Off Your Personality

This is where the fun really begins! If you have props that reflect who you are—like a favorite hat, sports gear, a musical instrument, sunglasses, or even a cute purse—bring them along! These extras can add a special touch to your photos, making them uniquely you. They’re also great for helping you relax and have fun during the session.

Don't Forget These Items!

I will have a lot of back up stuff with me. However, here are some handy dandy things that you might end up needing! 

1. Water bottles to stay hydrated (especially for those summer sessions or hiking sessions, it gets hot!)
2. A brush, hairspray, and/or gel. We move around a lot, and sometimes it’s a bit windy.  
3. Makeup for touchups.
4. On that same note, bring a little makeup bag for touch ups. Make sure to include some type of towel in case anyone gets too sweaty.
5. Please don’t bring gum! But definitely bring tic tacs or something. 
6. Umbrellas, because weather.
7. Comfortable shoes!
8. A lint roller just in case the camera sees something the eye doesn’t (this is a thing!)
9. Your cap and gown if you have it.
10. Your best friend (if you want to). Sometimes that friend is just what you need for some encouragement, or a belly laugh.  

And That's It!

There are more blog entries on the website that dive into a little more detail about locations, lighting, and more. I can't wait to see what memories we captures and how much fun we have together!