Let’s be honest, I feel like the word “prop” is beginning to teeter on the line of ultimate cheesiness when it comes to senior portraits. At every consultation, I ask my seniors if they plan on bringing any props to showcase their style, personality or hobbies.  Some of them (and their moms) immediately think of a few things, like favorite childhood pastimes, current obsessions, and things from school clubs. But most of the time the reaction I get is a curled Elvis-like lip and a scrunched up nose that screams “EW, that’s totally lame!” While this makes me a bit sad, I can completely understand it with the seemingly prop over-doneness in the former world of senior portraits.

So, how do you encourage or reinvent a “prop” when it comes to offering variety in senior sessions? Use their wardrobe selection to inspire you!!! Especially with the fall (almost winter for some of you!) weather being in our midst, it is THE BEST time to use those gorgeous fall fashion pieces to change it up when it comes to posing, styling + photographing your senior!

Think big cozy scarves they can snuggle their faces in, adorable felt hats to peek out from under, chunky layered necklaces to play with, deep red lipsticks to create drama, and fun oversized sweaters or jackets to wrap up in!

And the fun thing is that most of these pieces can actually be used in senior sessions year round! Swap out the thick scarf or jacket for a sheer shawl, the felt hat for a straw fedora, the chunky necklaces for some fun bangles or earrings, and lighten up the lips with neon pink or nude lipsticks! So much fun!

 

Madison Luikens of Madison Cary Photography in Midland, Texas, is a senior portrait photographer, fashionista and Seniorologie Tour Texas Alumna.  Madison brings her unique style to each Fashion post and we are so happy to have her share her tips for Senior Style.