SENIOR portraits AND GRADUATION photography

Like many things, the key to a great photoshoot is preparation. Being organised and ready to go means that your photoshoot likely will turn out exactly as you wish. But it also makes the sitter feel more relaxed and comfortable in front of the camera, knowing that they will look their best. With my senior portrait photoshoots I always conduct a consultation with the teen and parents beforehand so I can guide and advise, while also find out what the teen wants from their photoshoot. This really helps things run smoothly on the day and ensures the senior has the photoshoot of their dreams.

The first thing in preparing for a Senior Portrait photoshoot is deciding on the location/s. Some teens will wish to make the most of our London location. So we will ensure that special or famous sites in London feature as backdrops in their senior photoshoot. Whether they wish to have portraits made in front of the major tourist sites or simply using urban landscapes which clearly reference London such as the colourful houses in Notting Hill, the stucco fronted victorian villas of Kensington or the georgian facades of Shoreditch. Or we can conduct a photoshoot in one of London’s famous royal parks. Anything is possible, including a studio photoshoot in my West London studio if that is what is desired.

Next, we think about whether they would like to be pictured doing something they love. Such as singing, dancing, playing an instrument, listening to music, playing a sport, chilling with a family pet. And we incorporate this into our plan for the senior photoshoot.

Then we discuss outfits. Often we do a casual look followed by a more formal outfit. And then we have a think about what might be worn in the portraits featuring any hobbies or activities. Professional styling is avaialable from Rosanna, the stylist we work with, if desired.

And finally, professional hair and makeup is always a good idea. It just ensures that the senior looks their best on the day and gives a little confidence boost, which comes across in the portraits. This is something we can arrange if desired.

At Serena Bolton Photography we are able to adapt our offering to meet our clients’ needs. And while traditional British schools do not have a history of big ‘graduation’ ceremonies and parties, London hosts a number of International schools and an American school where things are a little different. And there are several universities in London having bigger graduation celebrations as well. However, not many photographers in London are aware of this demand and so after receiving enquiries for this type of photography from our American and other international clients, we have developed our offering to suit. 

We can attend the actual graduation ceremony (if allowed by the institution) and capture portraits of the graduate receiving their diploma. But beyond the ceremony, this is the perfect opportunity is to capture beautiful portraits of the graduate and their family at this special time. Some families organise private garden parties, or hold special dinners in a restaurant or even boat rides down the Thames. We have accommodated all of these in the past. So whatever your plans are for your special occasion, we will accommodate you and give you wonderful portraits that will delight you for a lifetime.