First and foremost, have fun! You are going to look great and you’ll have a great time. That’s why you chose Becky Bernard Photography.

 
Relax. I like to think I am rather cool and easy to get along with. Plus, I will help you with posing, so there’s no pressure on you.  I have spent years studying poses, lighting, composition, etc. to make sure you look your absolute best in your photos.

 
You’re unique and beautiful.  I have some basic guidelines for styling but be yourself in how you dress. Wear clothing that’s stylish and put a lot of thought into your choices. This is a unique opportunity and I want you to look amazing!  I love helping seniors with styling so please don’t hesitate to ask for a consult. 

 
I love accessories in sessions.  They really complete your look and can be the aspect that gives your shoot a “wow” factor.  So bring lots of accessories such as hats, headbands, scarves, jewelry, statement necklace, sunglasses, jackets, shoes, etc.  Even if you don’t think you will use it, bring it.

Bring lots of outfit ideas.  Although we probably will not get to everything, we can choose what will be best with different locations and backgrounds.  Better to have it and not need it then to need and not have it.  Please make sure clothes are grouped together by outfit to making changing faster and on hangers.  Also, clothes should be clean and wrinkle free. You may need to get that dreaded iron out.   Make sure you have tried on clothing before session to make sure it fits well and you feel comfortable in it.  In cooler months, don’t be afraid to layer clothing.

Avoid makeup with an SPF because it tends to create a shine. Summer shine can be controlled by using translucent powder that knocks out shine without adding additional color.   If you are not comfortable doing your makeup, I suggest going with the hair and makeup add-on.  I use an amazing salon that does a great job with hair and makeup so you look your best.  They are very busy so if you want this option, please contact them well in advance to schedule. Their contact info is on the bottom of the hair and makeup page.

Eyebrows- I recommend two to three days before your session, have your eyebrows groomed. Doing so a few days in advance will allow any redness or irritation to subside before your senior session. Having well groomed eyebrows is key to having a clean, polished, eye catching result to your makeup.

Exfoliate your lips.  Follow up with light moisturizer and lip balm.
 
If you wear glasses, I am sure you know that they often produce a glare if they are not glare free lenses.  If your glasses are not glare free, I suggest going to your eye doctor and getting your frames without the lenses.  I actually done this for my senior session, way back in the day, because I didn’t want a glare.  My eye doctor was more than happy to accommodate this request and I was able to get my exact frames to use for the day at no cost.  My pictures turned out flawless and you can’t even tell they had no lenses. 

 
Acne, no problem!  Makeup helps a lot here, but I do retouch your photos, so please don’t be concerned about minor breakouts. I have you covered! If your acne is more severe, you’re still okay.  I am happy to help you out with some extra retouching.  My policy is, if it is permanent, such as a birth mark, scar, mole, etc…. I do not edit it out.  Things I do edit would be acne, bruise, scrapes or cuts on skin. If you have any special requests regarding editing, please let me know before-hand. 
 

Adding layers also means that we can REMOVE layers to create multiple different looks with just one outfit. Play with textures.  Sometimes textures like sequins, furs and sparkles can be considered “daring” or “over the top” but, in portraits, they are the BEST! Adding texture to your outfit makes the biggest difference, and it prevents the images from looking dull! Combining textures that you may not normally use together like sequins + cable knit sweaters or leather + fur make GREAT pairs!  Lastly, bright and bold colors photograph well.  Make sure you have tried on clothes prior to session.


If you’re self-conscious about your arms, avoid sleeveless shirts as they tend to make arms look fuller.  Keep in mind, some schools have regulations regarding yearbook photos and will not accept sleeveless shirts as well as other criteria.  Make sure you bring at least one outfit you know meets all requirements for yearbook. 


If you’re comfortable in dresses, bring them! They photograph really well and offer a nice variety from your other casual clothing choices. We can mix dressy and casual dresses for some great looks. (Dresses are my personal fave.)


I cannot say it loudly enough. Wear heels! Whether pumps or boots, dressy or casual, plain or sassy, heels really make you stand out and look glamorous.  Please, do not wear flip flops.  Flip flops DO NOT photograph well.  Flats can also work well if you mix them with the right outfit.

Makeup that is well done is one of the best preparations you can make for your session. It will even out skin tones and help give your photos that extra pop for a model-like look. Even if you don’t normally wear makeup or wear very little, take the time to do it well and your photos will look their best.  Makeup should only be slightly heavier than normal. Mascara should be clean and not clumpy.  

Please make sure the colors of your undergarment coordinate well with your outfits and don’t show through your clothing. If you need a strapless bra, please bring one to your session. Tucking or moving straps will not always work or give the most pleasing look.  Check ahead of time to ensure that undergarments don’t leave unpleasing lines underneath your clothing.​

Your hands will be on or near your face in many of your images.  If you paint your nails, make sure they’re done well for your session. Chipped nail paint will show and distract from you. Avoid bright colors that will distract from you and may not work with all your outfits. Instead, opt for basic or natural tones. French manicures, light/natural colors and even nails with no color at all photograph best!!

 
Feel free to bring props and whatever represents you to your session.  This can include instruments, sports equipment, uniforms, pets, books, etc.  Feel free to include a sibling, parent, or boyfriend/girlfriend if you like at no additional charge.  This is your session.
 

Bring a hair brush to the session.  The wind can sometimes play havoc on hair as well as the Indiana humidity especially in the months of July and August. 

 
I have found that curled hair often photographs well and holds up against the wind and elements outside better than straightened hair.  Feel free to bring a hair tie in order to change your hairstyle in the middle of the session such as a cute fishtail braid just to mix things up.   Consider having hair professionally done if your hair does not hold curl well especially during humid months.