Jeff Hartzell Photography

111 Rieger Road

Butler, PA 16001

(724) 283-1743

Senior Portrait Instructions

• If you have not already done so, call the studio to make an appointment. Since I personally photograph every senior portrait, I do require an appointment.
• I spend approximately 90 minutes on each senior portrait sitting. When making an appointment, be sure to schedule your appointment on a day that will allow you to spend this amount of time at the studio.
• After you make your appointment visit the "High School Seniors" category of our web site to choose up to 15 poses that you would like me to shoot.
• Next, you will need to decide on 3 different outfits to be photographed in. Here are some tips on choosing those outfits.

  What To Wear

  • Choose a variety of outfits. It's a good idea to include both casual and more formal outfits in your senior portraits.
    • Girls: I recommend a dress for your formal portraits, long sleeves are best. A sweater or blouse with slacks, or a skirt work well for the semi-formal poses. 
    • Guys: I recommend a sport coat or suit for your formal portraits. For the semi-formal poses, a sweater and dress pants look good. Then for your casual shots, wear jeans or shorts with a casual shirt.
  • Your face should be the focal point of your portraits. Long sleeve solids or very subtle prints are usually the most flattering in portraits.
  • Medium to dark clothes look the best on dark backgrounds.
  • Medium to light colors look the best on lighter colored backgrounds.
  • Earth tones are best for outdoor portraits.
  • Some poses will show your shoes so don't forget to bring shoes & socks that coordinate with each outfit that you plan to wear.
  • Busy patterns and loud colors can be very distracting in your portraits. Avoid large & bold patterns that might tend to draw attention away from your face.
  • Glasses: Check with your optometrist and ask to borrow a pair of frames, or have your lenses removed. This eliminates reflections and distortions caused by your lenses.
  • Don't forget to bring your jewelry, especially your class ring.
  • You should wear your hair in your regular style and should NOT have a fresh haircut. If you need a trim, have it done about a week before.

  • Props can help to show your personality and record the types of activities you are involved in. Be sure to bring some of your own props to your portrait session. Here are some ideas: Musical Instrument, Pet, Sports Equipment, Uniform, Bike, Automobile, Sunglasses, Stuffed Animal.

  
  
• On the day of your appointment, please be prompt for your appointment.  
• A $40.00 Retainer is required at the time of your appointment. This is subtracted from the balance on your order.

If you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Thank you,

Jeff Hartzell Photography