Ideas for Senior Portraits in Metro Detroit
Senior pictures are some of my most favorite sessions. I love working with high school kids and celebrating all of their accomplishments and the person they are becoming. Portraits really are a time to have fun and gain confidence: it's a time to focus just on you! For kids who are not used to having formal photos taken, senior pictures can feel awkward or intimidating. Your photographer should always help you to feel comfortable and have fun during the entire session.
The best time to take senior pictures is typically the summer or fall leading up to senior year! Check out my post When is the Best Time of Year to Take Senior Pictures to learn more about scheduling your session. In this blog post, I am going to share some of my favorite locations, outfit ideas and poses for photos so you can be prepared for your portrait session!
Where to Take Senior Photos around Detroit, Michigan
One of the first questions your photographer may ask is about location. When choosing a location for photos, consider what places may be sentimental or interesting to you. Do you love flowers? Consider sunflower or lavender photos. Love the water? Find a beach or park with a river! Some seniors are able to gain access to their school, such as a football field or auditorium.
Some of my most recent shoots have been at the following locations:
- Downtown Rochester, Michigan
- Downtown Detroit, Michigan
- George George Park in Clinton Township, Michigan
- Lake St. Clair Metro Park
- River Bends Park in Shelby Township, MI (Savanna's favorite!)
- Romeo Lavender Farm, Bruce Township MI
The senior photo location guide: I have created a guide to help you get some ideas for where to take senior pictures in Metro Detroit! Use the button below to claim it for yourself!
The bottom line: find a place that has scenery you enjoy or some kind of sentimental value. It should be a place you feel comfortable in and excited about!
For even more location ideas, check out my blog post listing Places to Take Family Pictures in Metro Detroit.
What to Wear for Senior Pictures
So often my clients ask for suggestions on what to wear for shoots! When planning what to wear for senior portraits, always choose 2-3 outfits. Usually I recommend something more casual and something more formal, but definitely outfits that reflect your style and personality!
Additionally, I recommend bringing accessories or layers to change up your looks, such as hats or jackets. If you already have a cap and gown, bring that, too!
More than anything, make sure you're comfortable. When you're uncomfortable, you can tell in the photos. Maybe avoid the new heels if you're planning to do some walking for your session, or those pants that may be a smidge too tight.
Props for senior pictures:
- Baseball glove/bat/ball
- Football
- Playbills for the theater students
- Pets!
- Hats
- Certificates/achievements
- Paintbrushes/art
- Cap & gown if you have it!
Poses for Senior Photos
When it comes to posing seniors, there are endless options! There's a few standard photos we all want to get, like smiling and looking into the camera. Personally, I love photos that include movement and really show off a senior's personality. I also love including props in photos because they add great variation to photos.
Some of my favorite senior pose ideas for girls:
- Laughing & looking off camera
- Playing with hair
- Walking toward camera, smiling
- Twirling in dress
Some of my favorite photo poses for guys:
- Sitting, leaning with elbows on knees
- Leaning on fence/bridge
- Including cars
- Arms crossed, leaning against a tree or gate
- Walking toward and across camera
Book Senior Pictures Today
Ready to book your senior photography session?
Make sure you find a photographer that you trust! Express everything you are looking for in a senior session.
I have linked my calendar below so you can book directly online today and reserve your spot!
Learn more about my photography services on my Senior Pictures page linked below or contact me today if you have any questions!
