You are about to discover the power of a high school senior’s senior portrait. Stressed out about what to wear? Don’t worry about it. I, Will, owner of Will Sundquist Photography, have years of experience and can help you create a look that will knock your socks off. My unique style and artistic eye gives every photo session that extra little something special. If you are ready to take your photography to the next level and capture the moment, contact me today!

What to wear for you senior portraits.

This will depend on the season but thankfully, the Bay Area offers incredible weather all year round. If you choose to have your senior session in late spring or summer, I’d suggest wearing thin and breathable clothing. If you choose to photograph in the fall or winter months, you may want to bring a light jacket or a scarf. Also, if you decide to have your senior portraits done at a coastal location such as Santa Cruz, Capitola, Carmel, or Big Sur you will definitely want to bring some layers as the winds can pick up quickly. 

We also offer indoor senior portraits at the Will Sundquist Photography Studio in downtown Morgan Hill, CA. Thankfully we have an air-conditioned studio to keep you cool during the summer months and a blazingly warm heater to keep you comfy during the chilly winter months. 

How to pose for your senior portraits.

Posing can be one of the most difficult parts of a photography session but thankfully I have many years of posing experience. I will make sure to put all your posing anxieties at rest and I will guide you in many natural poses that you will make you feel comfortable and awkward free.

Lighting for your high school senior portraits.

After you decide on where you will be taking your senior portraits, it’s time to choose the right lighting. If you are taking your photos outside, we will want to schedule a morning or early evening session to make sure we capture the best lighting. Mornings and evenings provide the softest lighting that creates amazing skin tones and pastel like colors of the surrounding landscape. If you decide to do an indoor studio session, our quaint portrait studio in downtown Morgan Hill, CA will provide all the flattering lighting and backdrops to give you all the best timeless portrait looks needed. 

My favorite Bay Area locations to take high school senior portraits.

Bridges – Not only are they beautiful, but they are also a great place to take senior portraits. If you are looking for a location with an interesting light, a bridge will give it to you. A popular bride is located at the Vasona State Park in Los Gatos, CA. 

Forrest – If you are looking for a classic look, take your senior portraits in a forrest. You can use the classic “stonelane” look to add a rustic touch to your photos. A popular forrest location is the iconic Mt. Madonna redwood grove on the border of Gilroy and Watsonville, CA. 

Water – If you are looking for a location that is a little more exotic, take your senior portraits by the water. You can also use the reflections from the water to add a beautiful light to your photos. Favorite water locations are Carmel, Santa Cruz, Capitola, and Big Sur, CA. 

My favorite props for high school senior portraits.

Books – If you are looking for a unique prop that also serves a purpose, consider a book. You can write messages or put pictures in them for that extra something.

Candles – Another classic prop that you can use for senior portraits. They give your photos that romantic, vintage feel that you are looking for.

Cars – Old cars will give your photos a classic feel that is hard to match. You can use the scent of old leather or the sound of the engine to set the right mood.

Instruments - If you happen to be musical and find a particular instrument that brings you joy, bring it along, we will capture some fun photos with your gear.

My favorite tips to getting awesome senior portraits.

Tip #1. Make sure you look at (and enjoy) your reflection. You never know what you might find!

Tip #2. Smile while you are taking your senior portraits. It will make the photos come out nice and bright.

Tip #3. Keep your pose loose. Do not be afraid to move a little bit. I will make sure to help you keep your poses interesting.

Tip #4. Do not forget to have fun! Even if you are not having fun in real life, it shows in your photos.

Final thoughts.

I always tell my clients that their senior portraits are a snapshot of their time in high school. This is your chance to show the world what it is like to be you and have fun doing it! Whether you are looking for photos that are bright, airy, or full of color, I can help you create a look that is uniquely you. Contact me today to get started on creating beautiful senior portraits.