Behind the Lens: What Every Charleston Senior Should Know Before Their Portrait Session

Senior portraits are a rite of passage—part celebration, part reflection, and a beautiful way to mark this moment in time. I love this season. There’s a kind of energy to it—excitement, nerves, and so much joy packed into a single hour.

While most seniors are thinking about outfits, weather, and locations, I’m looking at light, mood, and all the little things that turn a good gallery into something unforgettable. So, here’s a peek behind the lens—what I wish every senior knew before stepping in front of my camera.

1. You Set the Mood, and It Shows

Here’s the truth: the best photos happen when you’re comfortable. Not when you're perfectly posed. Not when you’re trying too hard. Just when you’re you.

I’m not after stiff smiles—I’m after real moments. A glance. A quick laugh. In that tiny second, your shoulders relax. My job is to help you get there. I’ll guide you the whole way, and if it feels more like hanging out than a photo session, I’m doing my job right.

Tip: Show up on time, bring music you love, and take a deep breath. I’ll take it from there.

2. The Best Outfit Is the One That Feels Like You

Styling doesn’t have to be stressful. In fact, the best outfit choices are usually the ones that feel effortless—like something you’d grab on a day when you're feeling your best.

I love textures, layers, and earthy or muted tones. Denim, cotton, linen. Clothes you can move in. And yes, you can absolutely bring a second option. Switching it up mid-session adds variety and gives you more to choose from later.

Skip anything neon, super-tight, or anything you’re constantly adjusting. This is your time to feel confident—not distracted.

3. I Read Charleston’s Light Better Than Any App

Charleston light is something special—but it’s also unpredictable. That dreamy golden hour downtown doesn’t hit the same way at the beach. Tree cover changes everything. A little humidity or haze? Total game changer.

So, when I recommend a certain time or location, it’s not random. I’ve chased light through every alley, park, and shoreline in this city. If I ask to shift your session by 30 minutes or move it across town, I’m thinking about your final gallery, not just my calendar.

4. Planning Is Great—Until It Gets in the Way

I love a Pinterest board as much as anyone. Inspiration is welcome. But when every moment is planned down to the pose, it can start to feel stiff. The best photos often happen in between the ideas—the wind catching your hair, a comment that makes you laugh, the light shifting at just the right time.

I bring structure to the session so you don’t have to worry about what’s next. You bring the good vibes, and I’ll take care of the rest.

5. Editing Enhances, It Doesn’t Change You

I can smooth a flyaway, lighten a shadow, or gently edit a blemish—but my goal is never to make you look like someone else. I want you to look like you. Your best, most rested, slightly sun-kissed self.

So don’t worry about every little detail, but do the basics: clean nails, light makeup if you wear it, and maybe a good night’s sleep. And if there’s something you’re self-conscious about—like braces or a scar—tell me. I’ll handle it with care and without judgment.

6. Posing? I’ve Got You

You don’t need to know how to pose. That’s where I come in.

I read body language and adjust as we go. Whether you’re laid-back or more formal, I’ll guide you into poses that feel natural and comfortable. And if something feels awkward, just say so—I’ll switch gears in a heartbeat. You’re never expected to know what to do. That’s my job.

Final Thoughts from Behind the Lens

Senior portraits aren’t about being perfect. They’re about capturing this moment—this shift from one chapter to the next.

When you show up open, relaxed, and ready to trust the process, the photos reflect that. My goal is always the same: to make it feel easy, to keep it fun, and to give you images that feel like you—exactly as you are, right now.