Smiling woman in yellow floral dress poses on white balcony with palm trees in sunny outdoor setting.
Everything you need to know before we meet.

Preparing for your Just You Session

Whether we're celebrating your senior year, a milestone, a new chapter, or you're simply ready for some beautiful photographs of you, your session should feel fun, relaxed and completely comfortable.


You don't need to know how to pose or what to do in front of the camera. That's what I'm here for.


I'll gently guide you throughout your session while giving you plenty of room to move, laugh and be yourself.


The goal isn't to make you look like someone else.


It's to capture you.

STEP 01

 

Before you Arrive

Plan to arrive a few minutes early so we can get started on time and make the most of our light.


Before your session, do a quick check for anything you may not want showing in your photographs:


  • Phones, keys or other items in pockets
  • Smart watches or hair ties on wrists
  • Sunglasses
  • Bags or extra belongings


Take a few minutes before you arrive to make sure you feel comfortable and confident in what you're wearing.


And don't worry about practicing poses in the mirror—you won't need them!

STEP 02

 

What the Wear

Choose something that feels like you.


You should feel comfortable, confident and able to move easily in whatever you choose.


Simple, timeless pieces photograph beautifully, but your outfit should still reflect your personality.


Think about movement and texture, too. A dress or skirt that moves in the breeze, a favorite pair of jeans, or layers that add a little interest can all photograph beautifully.


Most importantly, don't choose something simply because you think it's what you're supposed to wear for pictures.


I want you to recognize yourself when you look back at these photographs.


For My Seniors


Your senior session is about celebrating you and this season of your life.


Choose outfits that feel like your personal style right now. You don't have to suddenly dress differently just because you're having senior portraits taken.


Feel free to bring something meaningful to you, too—a favorite jacket, college sweatshirt, sports item, instrument or something connected to an activity you love.


We'll make sure your gallery has variety while still keeping everything natural and true to you.

STEP 03

 

During Your Session

You don't have to know what to do with your hands—I promise.


I'll guide you through posing, where to look and how to stand, but we'll also use plenty of movement so your photographs don't feel stiff.


We may walk, sit, play with your hair, look away from the camera, laugh, turn, move your dress or simply take a second to enjoy the scenery.


I'll capture a variety of photographs throughout your session, from wider environmental portraits to closer images that focus completely on you.


Of course, we'll get those beautiful looking-at-the-camera portraits, too.


You Don't Have to Be "Photogenic"

That's not a requirement.


So many people tell me they're awkward in front of the camera or they don't know how to pose.


That's completely okay.


You don't have to perform for my camera.


I'll guide you through the entire session, make small adjustments when needed and give you things to do so you aren't left wondering what's next.


My goal is for you to eventually forget about the camera a little bit and simply enjoy yourself.

STEP 04

 

Make It Personal

This is your session.


If there's something that feels especially meaningful to you, tell me!


For seniors, that might be something connected to your school, sport, hobby or plans for what's next.


For other Just You sessions, it could be something that represents this particular season of your life.


You don't need to bring props just for the sake of having props. If we include something, I want it to have a reason for being there.

Sand, Wind & Water Are Welcome

It's the beach!
Woman in floral maxi dress posing by white balustrade with palm trees in sunny outdoor setting.

Hair may move. Dresses may blow. Little feet will get sandy. Someone may even end up with wet clothes.


That's okay.


Rather than fighting the elements, I like to work with them. Movement and a little bit of beautiful beach messiness are part of what makes your photographs feel natural.


A Note About the Weather


Coastal weather can change incredibly quickly, and the forecast isn't always an accurate picture of what we'll actually experience at the beach.


I keep a close eye on the weather leading up to every session and will be in touch if I have any concerns.


Clouds, wind or the possibility of a brief shower don't necessarily mean we need to reschedule. Lightning, severe storms, heavy rain, high winds or unsafe conditions may require us to make a change.


I'll always make the final call with your safety and the quality of your session in mind.

Most Importantly...


come ready to have fun
Woman in floral white dress with yellow trim smiling on a sunny porch with palm trees.

You don't need to know how to pose.


You don't need to be "good" in front of the camera.


And you definitely don't need to be anyone other than yourself.


I'll take care of the guidance, posing and little details along the way.


You just get to enjoy the experience.

 

Easy, Natural & You