E1: How To Make High School Seniors Feel Comfortable During A Session
Posing Tips for Senior Photography: Help Seniors Feel Confident
Senior photography isn’t just about taking pretty pictures—it’s about making sure your clients feel comfortable, confident, and like the absolute best version of themselves. Because let’s be real, if they’re stiff and awkward, it’s going to show. And we’re not about that life.
Why Comfort = Confidence (and Better Photos!)
Ever been halfway through a session and realized your senior looks like they’re starring in their own personal anxiety dream? Maybe they’ve never been in front of a professional camera before. Maybe they’ve been scrolling Instagram and now feel like they’ll never look as polished as their friends. Maybe they just have no idea what to do with their hands (relatable).
No matter the case, your job is to help them relax and enjoy the experience. The more comfortable they feel, the more natural their expressions, the better their poses, and the more they’ll trust you to capture something they love.
How to Turn Stiff & Nervous into Confident & Photogenic
Sarah and I have spent years perfecting how to get our seniors out of their heads and into their best selves on camera. Here’s what works:
1. Break the Ice Before They Arrive
I send a video walkthrough before the session so seniors know exactly what to expect. Sarah hops on a 15-minute pre-session call with them and their parent to talk through everything from outfit choices to locations. Whether it’s a call, a guide, or a video, setting expectations before the session makes a huge difference in reducing nerves.
2. Use Questionnaires to Build a Connection
We send out pre-session questionnaires with fun, low-pressure questions like What’s your go-to hype song? What’s your dream vacation? How would your friends describe you? These not only help us connect with our clients, but also give us insight into their personalities so we can tailor the session to them.
3. Music Changes Everything
Silence is awkward, and a great playlist can completely shift the energy of a session. That’s why we always ask about their favorite songs and then play them throughout the shoot. It helps create a fun, relaxed environment and gets them to let loose.
4. Start with Movement-Based Poses
Rather than making them stand still and feel self-conscious, we kick off sessions with movement. Walking, twirling, adjusting their jacket—simple prompts to ease them into the flow. Movement helps them relax, feel more natural, and get into the rhythm of posing without overthinking.
5. Hype Them Up (Genuinely!)
Think of yourself as their personal confidence coach. Compliment them, reassure them, and make sure they know when they’re absolutely nailing it. Some go-to phrases that work every time:
- That’s amazing—don’t move!
- This lighting + you = perfection.
- Oh my gosh, Vogue is calling.
- Wait ‘til you see this one—you’re going to love it.
And don’t just say it—show them! Flipping the camera around and letting them see how great they look builds trust and excitement instantly.
6. Make Their Session Feel Personal
This isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience. If they’re an athlete, incorporate action shots. If they love the outdoors, take them to a scenic spot. If they’re shy, adjust your energy to be more calming. The more personalized the session, the more natural and relaxed they’ll feel.
Ending on a High Note
The last few minutes of a session matter just as much as the first. Wrap things up with enthusiasm—show them a sneak peek, tell them how much fun it was, and let them know they absolutely rocked it. And don’t forget to send a sneak peek within 24 hours! Keeping the excitement going ensures they’ll be even more eager to share their photos.
Your Action Step
Try adding one new icebreaker or prompt at your next session and see how it changes the energy. Need help prepping your seniors? Grab my free senior questionnaire—it’s a game-changer. Link in the show notes!
Ready to Elevate Your Senior Sessions?
If you’re tired of stiff, awkward photos and want to start delivering fun, personality-packed sessions, Raw Edit has your back. Subscribe, binge the episodes, and let’s make magic together. 🎧🔥
📄 Free Resource:
Grab Kellie’s free senior questionnaire to help prep your clients for their session: Download Here
Grab Sarah’s free post-production workflow guide to streamline your post processing. Download Here
🎧 Hit play and let’s get RAW.
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About Raw Edit
Hosted by Kellie Rochelle and Sarah Monson, two photographers who have been through all the highs and lows, this podcast is your safe space for honest conversations about what it actually takes to thrive in this industry.
Each week, we’re bringing you behind-the-scenes stories, industry insights, and hard-earned lessons—so you can skip the mistakes and fast-track your success!
🌐 Connect with Us:
Kellie Rochelle Photography
- Website: https://kellierochelle.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellierochellephotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kellierochellephotography/
Sarah Monson Photography
- Website: https://smonsonphotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahmonsonphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SarahMonsonPhotography
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