Taking formal photos of seniors has always been one of my favourite times to shoot. There is so much planning that goes into this special day. Graduates have probably been thinking about this moment since they first started high school! It’s a significant milestone in a young person’s life, marking the transition from childhood to adulthood. For parents, it’s a time filled with mixed emotions. They feel pride in their child’s achievements and excitement for their future, but also a sense of nostalgia and change as their child steps into the adult world. This moment is truly unforgettable for everyone involved.
My style – I want my seniors to feel like they are in their own fashion shoot. It’s important to me that they feel truly special and unique during the session. Since most aren’t comfortable in front of the camera, I strive to make the experience as easy and enjoyable as possible. I provide direction to help bring out the best in them, ensuring they feel confident and at ease. My goal is to capture their true essence while also elevating the images with a subtle touch of style and elegance. I aim for my photos to be timeless, avoiding any clichés that might make them look dated. Each image should reflect a sense of sophistication and grace, making the seniors feel proud and special. Ultimately, I want every senior to look back at their photos and see a beautiful, timeless representation of themselves.
Posing – this term might sound outdated or old-fashioned, but we are not referring to cheesy, awkward poses. Everyone needs some direction to look their best in photos. Often, something as subtle as a slight adjustment can make a significant difference. In formal photography, getting the pose right is crucial because it contributes to the timeless quality of the image. A well-executed pose can enhance the overall composition, making the photo more appealing and memorable. Therefore, paying attention to posing is essential for capturing beautiful, lasting memories that stand the test of time.
Lighting – There is nothing more important than light! When it comes to formal photos, lighting can be a real challenge. Sometimes, we have to start in the mid-afternoon when the light is harsh and unflattering. This makes it crucial to work with the available light and understand how to make the best use of it. Knowing how to take advantage of the light you have can result in flattering images that stand out.
My formal sessions are always taken on location. I have the skill to utilize full sun effectively or find a great spot with beautiful, filtered light. Whether it’s a sunny day or a cloudy one, I know how to make the light work in our favour. This ensures that every photo session results in stunning, high-quality images that capture the essence of the moment perfectly.
Cool cars and fast horses! – One of my favourite things about formal time is all the awesome cars! I love lighting the cars to bring out the shine. Being in a rural area, many of my seniors also like to get some images with their horses. These usually turn out to be some of the most relaxed images as my seniors feel at home with their horses. The bond between them and their horses is evident, making the photos even more special. Whether it’s the sleek lines of a car or the majestic presence of a horse, capturing these moments is always a joy.
Family – Senior formal photography is also another great opportunity to capture images of the family. We can record special moments between mum, dad, siblings and even grandparents.
Location – I travel around the Central Queensland region for senior formal photography. Emerald, Blackwater, Capella and Springsure are my closest towns but I am more than happy to travel further afield to Rockhampton, Clermont, Biloela and anywhere in between!