Making a Memory: 5 Fun and Unique Senior Portrait Ideas

By the time a high school student becomes a senior, they’re ready to reflect on their hard work while looking forward to the future. The right senior portraits can capture those feelings and preserve them forever.

However, without going in with a plan, senior photos can turn out awkward and uncomfortable looking. So what can you do to make the photoshoot as painless as possible?

Keep reading to learn about five different senior portrait ideas that’ll eliminate awkwardness and make a senior feel confident and comfortable.

1. Simple and Comfortable: Take a Seat

When you first get started taking pictures, most people will feel a little camera shy. To combat that, consider finding something for them to sit on to help them feel comfortable.

Starting with a sitting pose will help them relax and get ready for some of the other poses that are to come. Snaps some pictures, show them to the senior, and watch their confidence grow. They’ll sit up straighter and smile wider.

2. Strike a Power Pose

Once the senior feels confident, you can move on to different standing poses. These can be a good chance to try and help the senior feel confident and empowered.

Try out some different power poses, then move into traditional smile shots. To help them smile, try to find some different ways to get them laughing. A fake smile is obvious and can ruin even the best senior pictures.

3. Anchor Down With a Lean

Not looking like they have something to do can plague subjects in photos. By having them lean into the shot, you’ll help them feel comfortable and end up with a natural-looking shot.

Leaning poses work best with 3/4 body shots. Try to capture lines and contrast in the background by photographing in front of places like a fence.

4. Spice Things up With an Action Shot

Getting seniors moving and then snapping shots can be a great way to bring some life into the shots and capture their joy.

Try to incorporate the location when thinking about different movements to do. For example, this can include jumping in a field or passing the ball on a football field. Consider choosing a location that’s meaningful to the senior.

5. Bring Some Drama With an Over-the-Shoulder Shot

An over-the-shoulder-shot can be another great way to make photos appear lively and eliminate any awkwardness.

These sorts of shots are a great way to highlight the subject’s eyes, eyelashes, and expression in general. Shoulder shots also help with posture, and let a little bit of attitude shine through.

Try These Senior Portrait Ideas to Make Memories That Last

High school is an awkward time for many, which can make it difficult to take senior portraits that are fun to look back at years later. However, by trying out some of the five senior portrait ideas mentioned in this guide, you’ll be able to bring out any senior’s confidence and personality.

Do you now have a better idea of some different senior portrait ideas for guys or girls? Before you go and start planning some different poses and locations for the shoot, make sure to take a look at some of our other blog posts for more guides and tips.