Tips for Camera Shy Seniors: Making Your Photography Session a Breeze

Embrace Your Unique Self

Hi everyone, I'm Sonia, a senior photographer in the DMV. Here are some of my tried and true, helpful, and quick tips to rely on when doing your senior session. As a senior preparing for your upcoming photography session in the Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC area, it's important to remember that you are capturing a special moment in your life. Embrace your uniqueness and let your personality shine through. Your senior photographer is skilled at highlighting what makes you, well, you! So, relax and let the camera capture your true essence.

Communicate with Your Photographer

One of the best ways to ease your nerves is to have a chat with ME(😊), your photographer, before the session. Discuss your concerns, preferences, and any ideas you might have. A professional senior photographer in the DMV area will be more than happy to accommodate your needs and make you feel comfortable. This open line of communication will help you feel more at ease when it's time to strike a pose.

Choose Comfortable Outfits

Feeling good in what you're wearing can significantly impact your confidence in front of the camera. Opt for outfits that you love and feel comfortable in. Whether it's a favorite dress, a cozy sweater, or a pair of jeans that fit just right, comfort is key. As your senior photographer I can also provide guidance on what types of clothing work best for the camera, ensuring you look your best. During consultation with you I'll discuss this with you!

Practice Posing

If you're feeling particularly anxious about your photography session, why not practice a bit beforehand? Spend some time in front of a mirror trying out different poses and expressions. This will help you get a sense of what feels natural and looks good. And of course, I'm here to guide you and talk to you and show you poses that will work for you. I also like being sometimes unobtrusive and just capture candid shots of you during the session. So if you're a tad shy I'm not asking you to put on a show. It's about letting you be you and that comes down to being your natural self. Either way, my objective is to help you feel confident and boost your confidence.

Bring a Friend or Family Member

Having a familiar face with you during the session can provide a great sense of comfort. Whether it's a friend, sibling, or parent, having someone you trust by your side can make the experience more enjoyable. Plus, they might even help you relax and bring out genuine smiles for the camera. And if you have a social media page, the person you bring to the shoot can take a quick video or pics to show the "behind the scenes" that you can post on your page.

Focus on the Experience

Above all, try to focus on the experience rather than the outcome. Think of your photography session as a fun and memorable event rather than a high-pressure situation. Enjoy the process, laugh, and let your personality shine through. The more relaxed and authentic you are, the better the photos will turn out.

Remember, your senior photographer in the Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC area is there to capture you at your best. I really think most important is that you enjoy this experience, keep in mind that this is going to be fun. With these tips, you'll be ready to face the camera with confidence and create beautiful memories to cherish forever. You ready??? I'm ready, already. 😊

Sonia Greenaway Mickle is a senior photographer and portrait photographer based out of Fort Washington Maryland and Northern Virginia and serves the Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia area. Her goal is to bring out every senior’s personality in their images and she's dedicated to making sure that every senior session is unique and different so that you enjoy your images that reflect you and only you, know that you're special and valued, and experience a fun time. Sonia is now booking the Class of 2025 students for senior sessions, as well as portrait and tween sessions.