With some preparation, a friend or relative can take your senior photo.
Your final year of high school is here, and it's time to think about your senior photo. While senior portraits have become a time-honored tradition to mark the end of 12 years of education and are a valuable keepsake for family and friends, they can be expensive. However, they don't have to be. With a little planning and a digital camera, a friend or family member can take that senior portrait for you.
Instructions
1. Determine how your senior photo will be used. If it will be your senior yearbook photo, check the requirements for background, dress, format -- vertical or horizontal -- and color use. If your photo is only for family and friends, plan on more informal dress, background and props, such as with a pet or in sporting gear, that reveal the real you. Allow enough time to meet any deadlines.
2. Use a digital camera that is at least 3.0 megapixels. Do not use a cell phone to take your photo since most phones do not have enough resolution and will not give you the quality you desire.
3. Make a list of possible photo locations. Consider outdoor places with colorful foliage or buildings with interesting textures. Look for arches, doorways and windows that provide a natural frame and direct the viewer's eye to you. Avoid spots that appear "cluttered." If you need to take the photo inside, use a dark wall or background so shadows from the flash will not be visible. Use natural lighting whenever possible.
4. Bring two or three outfits with you so you can select the best color and style for each location. Don't forget accessories, such as scarves and jewelry. Use different poses, but check that they look natural.
5. Unload the photos to your computer when you are finished, Crop your photos as needed, use some visual effects, such as sepia tones or spot coloring, then select the best ones. If you do not have an adequate photo printer, send your photos to a commercial photo finisher for copies.
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