Why Senior Photos Don’t Have to Be Awkward (And What You Can Expect Instead)
Worried about looking awkward in your senior photos? You’re not alone. It’s one of the top concerns teens share with me. They worry about awkward poses or, worse, cringing at the photos later. I get it. In fact, I think that feeling is just part of growing up.
Here’s the thing… when my daughter was younger, she was embarrassed by her unicorn-themed bedding. She didn’t want her friends to think it was “baby stuff.” But when she picked it out at 5 years old, she loved it. As we grow, we outgrow some things, and that’s okay! Change is natural. Just like with your senior photos, they will be a snapshot of you in this moment. They won’t be cringey because I’ll make sure they’re you, but you have to promise to also recognize you might change and like different things at later points in life.
What Most Seniors Want (And How I Deliver That)
You want photos that actually feel like you. Not stiff, posed, or awkward. Just natural, fun, and expressive.
I’m with you on this one. That’s why I don’t show up with a script or try to direct a commercial. (Been there done that!) Instead, I’ve created a system of personalized prompts, printed on cards that you get to choose during your session. You’ll draw a card and get an idea, and that’s when the lightbulb comes on. Suddenly, you’re not worrying about what to do next… you’re moving, laughing, and feeling totally present.
And yeah, we’ll still get some posed shots, but they won’t feel stiff. My job is to guide the energy of your session and help you show up as your best, most authentic self.
What Is Prompting, Anyway? (And How It’s Different From Posing)
Prompting is basically the cooler, more relaxed cousin of posing. Instead of saying “stand like this, tilt your chin, now smile… no, not that smile,” I give you something to do or think about.
It’s less “freeze in this position” and more “here’s an idea… now run with it.”
Posing says: “Stand here, look this way, and try not to blink.”
Prompting says: “Pretend you’re celebrating something huge” or “Walk like you own the place.”
With prompting, you’re moving, laughing, reacting. Even when you are still, it doesn’t feel stiff because you’ve got something going on in your head or heart that gives the photo life. And when we do pose, it’s with purpose. I guide you into it in a way that still feels connected, not robotic.
How Prompts Make It Personal (And Help You Forget the Camera’s Even There)
The prompts aren’t random. I design them around you, your vibe, your energy, your story. Before your session, I learn what makes you light up and what makes you feel the most “you,” and then I craft prompts that fit. I love using things that teens share that they love… like favorite movies, tv series, or books. Those always make for some good laughs.
Some are playful, like:
➡ “Walk toward me like you’re storming off in a dramatic teen movie.”
➡ “Do the most ridiculous model face you can think of.”
➡ “Spin around like your tv crush just called out your name.”
Others are more reflective, like:
➡ “Close your eyes and think about where you want to be in a year.”
➡ “Show me your haughtiest let them eat cake look.”
You pull the prompt cards yourself during the session, so there’s a sense of surprise and ownership. It’s interactive, low-pressure, and fun. It breaks the ice. It takes you out of your head. And before you know it, you’re not posing… you’re moving. The session feels less like a photoshoot and more like a fun experience with a friend. You’re not just standing there, you’re moving, laughing, and having a blast!
Ready to Make Your Senior Session Fun and Unique?
Let’s create photos you’ll love and memories you’ll cherish. Ready to make it happen? Book your session today, and let’s get started!
(Need more tips? Check out my Senior Prep Guide for everything you need to know to prep for your shoot and feel confident.)
