. . . but I won't do that

A senior portrait should be fun to take and fun to look at. I love getting ideas from fellow photographers, and I am excited to try new things, especially when my clients come up with ideas.

But there are some things that I would steer seniors away from, no matter which photographer you choose.

1. Railroad tracks

Sitting, standing, or walking on railroad tracks -- ANY railroad tracks -- is dangerous and illegal. Period.

A photographer who suggests this is irresponsible and is putting you and themselves in danger.

The idea is to symbolize that you are beginning an exciting journey. But honestly, at this point it is not new or exciting. There are better ways to show that you are looking forward to the future.

BETTER IDEAS: In some cases, if you and your photographer are VERY careful, a quiet roadway or a crosswalk will work. If you MUST have railroad tracks, many photographers can place you on a public domain photo -- like the one above -- in post-editing. But I would rather work with a client to come up with something more original.

2. "Bare Feet Up"

You've seen this one -- lying on a grassy area, hands under your chin, legs bent at the knees and feet crossed. I don't have anything against it except that it's overdone. Some seniors look amazing doing this, and I saw one recently that I loved. But often, the teen looks uncomfortable, and it shows.

BETTER IDEA: Focus on a pose that feels natural to YOU. Be willing to try poses the photographer suggests, but come up with some of your own. Be flexible, and have fun!

3. Old, rusty truck

Okay, if it is YOUR old rusty truck, that works for me. And it does give a photograph a rural feel. But if you live in a city or suburb, rive a compact car, and listen to hip hop, then a rusty truck is not saying anything about you -- and the whole idea is to express who YOU are at this time in your life.

BETTER IDEA: Find an area that speaks to you. It can be a park or downtown, your high school or college campus, the football field, or your back yard. If you live in a rural area, then by all means, use the tractor or barn!

4. Your new ride

I'm not a big fan of senior portraits with new sports cars. Most people have cars for a few years and then move on. It's unlikely that your most important memories or values are tied up in an automobile, no matter how expensive it is. You senior portrait should advertise YOU, not your ride, as much as you love it.

BETTER IDEA: If you replaced the engine and repainted a classic car yourself, then go for it! You've put in your heart and soul, and who knows? You may be passing it along to a nephew or granddaughter someday. If you want your car in the photo, just work with your photographer to make sure that YOU are the star, not your Porsche.

5. "New" clothes or makeup

You wear a hat? Cool! Lots of black eye makeup is your everyday look? Great! That's how you should come to your senior portrait session. The idea is to show YOU. If you use a stylist or makeup artist, talk to them about how you normally express yourself. If you are wearing makeup and fashion that is not you, you won't end up liking the result. And be aware that glittery makeup or large jewelry might cause distracting reflections.

BETTER IDEA: I tend to like photos that feature solid colors in clothing and makeup on the natural side, but I love portraits with dramatic hair and makeup if it is authentic to that person.

6. Any pose that seems awkward

Photographers should come with ideas for posing, but the best ones know that an uncomfortable subject will probably LOOK uncomfortable. Work with your photographer to come up with poses that are natural. Don't try too hard to look like a fashion magazine -- their job is to sell clothing. A senior portrait should show the amazing PERSON you are. Arching your back, playing with the tips of your hair, or framing your face with a bent arm may come off as overly posed.

IDEAS: Be aware of your body. Take a deep breath if you feel your shoulders tensing. Keep your arms and hands relaxed. Have fun!

NOTE: The photos in this post are NOT my work. They are in the public domain and used to illustrate my points. Google "senior portraits" to see lots of ideas and figure out what you like or don't like.