Your Senior Portrait Session with Amy Quinn Hill Photography
A meaningful tribute to your Citadel experience.
Your journey has been one of growth, discipline, and achievement, leading up to this transformative senior year. I am excited to capture this meaningful chapter through a senior portrait session that not only celebrates your time at The Citadel but also honors the person you've become. Here’s how to prepare for a senior portrait session that is both successful and memorable and reflects your Citadel journey.
Citadel Senior Session Prep Guide
The Weeks Leading Up to Your Portrait Session
Shape Your Vision
This is your time to shine! Think about what you want your senior portraits to communicate—your pride, your journey, and your accomplishments. To help bring your vision to life:
Inspiration: Use Pinterest or other image boards to gather ideas. Pin poses, props, or locations that resonate with you.
Collaborate: Share your ideas with me by sending links or screenshots. This helps us work together to create images that truly capture your vision.
Think about the locations on campus where you want your senior photos taken. Consider iconic spots like Summerall Chapel, the Avenue of Remembrance, the Parade Deck, Campus Entrance, the Ring, or even the Boat Landing.
*If any locations, such as the Barracks, require permission, be sure to obtain it in advance.
Celebrate Your Uniqueness and Passions
This session is all about highlighting what makes you you. Incorporating your unique interests will personalize your photos:
Hobbies and Achievements: Bring items that are symbolic of your time at The Citadel—perhaps books that reflect your studies, athletic gear, or musical instruments.
Awards or Memorabilia: Show off awards, medals, or other achievements that reflect your dedication and hard work.
Uniform and Citadel Spirit: Don’t forget to bring along any Citadel-specific items to celebrate your school pride.
The Week and Day Before Your Session
Prioritize Self-Care
The small steps you take in the days leading up to your session make a big difference in how you feel and look:
Hydration: Drink at least eight glasses of water daily to ensure glowing skin.
Sleep: Prioritize restful sleep so you feel and look refreshed.
Sun Exposure: Minimize time in direct sun to avoid unexpected sunburn or uneven tan lines.
Immaculate Uniform Preparation
Your uniform represents your discipline and pride as a Citadel senior. Ensure it is meticulously prepared:
Press and Polish: Have your uniform professionally pressed and polished to look its best. Don’t forget the ceremonial white gloves for a refined, polished look.
Compliance with Standards: Ensure your uniform adheres to Citadel standards for that polished and pristine look.
Companionship
Consider inviting a loved one or friend to join you at the session:
Emotional Support: A familiar face can help you feel more comfortable and relaxed.
Additional Photos: Capture a few meaningful shots with them as a reminder of the friendships or family bonds that supported you along your journey.
Session Day Preparation & Tips
Start Your Day Off Right
Eat a Light Meal – Have something nutritious to keep your energy up without feeling too full.
Stay Hydrated – Bring a water bottle to stay refreshed during the session.
Arrive Prepared & On Time
Arrive a Few Minutes Early – This gives us time to settle in, review session goals, and discuss any last-minute ideas.
Share Any New Ideas – If inspiration strikes, let me know! We can adjust and make your session even more personal.
Feeling Comfortable & Confident in Front of the Camera
Relax, have fun, and let your personality shine—authenticity leads to the best images. I know being in front of the camera can feel intimidating at first, but don’t worry—I’ll guide you every step of the way.
How to Feel Relaxed & Natural
No Need to Pose – I’ll Guide You!
You don’t have to know how to pose—I’ll provide simple prompts and natural movements to help you feel at ease and look great.Focus on the Experience, Not the Camera
Think of this as a moment to celebrate your Citadel journey. Reminisce about your time on campus, enjoy the surroundings, and let the session be an experience, not just a photoshoot.Breathe & Loosen Up
Take a few deep breaths before we start. A quick walk or shakeout can help release any tension.Bring a Friend or Family Member
If it helps you feel more relaxed, bring someone you trust. They can add to the fun and help bring out natural smiles.Movement = Natural, Candid Moments
I’ll encourage you to walk, shift your weight, or change positions—small movements make photos feel natural and dynamic.Trust the Process
Your personality will shine through naturally. Enjoy the moment, and trust that I’ll capture the best version of you.
Essentials to Bring
Touch-Up Kit – Chapstick, blotting paper, or a small brush for quick touch-ups.
Water Bottle – Staying hydrated keeps your energy up.
Extra Uniform – If you’d like a variety of looks, consider bringing a change of clothes.
Embrace the Moment
This is a time to celebrate all you’ve accomplished at The Citadel. Be proud, smile, and enjoy the experience. This session is a tribute to your hard work and the journey that brought you here!
Capturing Your Citadel Journey with Senior Photos
From your first day to this milestone moment, your Citadel experience is a testament to your perseverance and accomplishments. I’m honored to capture this pivotal time in your life through our senior portrait session—creating images that showcase your character, achievements, and the journey that has shaped you.
After the Session
Within two weeks, I will deliver your fully edited gallery via an online link.
What’s Included:
An online gallery of all the best images from your Citadel senior portrait session with a print release, perfect for announcements, celebrations, and keepsakes. You will have full access to download all of your photos.
Your gallery will remain active for six months on my gallery-sharing service, so be sure to download your images before then.
A $50 print credit to use in my online store for high-quality prints. (The credit is valid for one month after gallery delivery, so be sure to use it and bring your favorite images to life!)
Option to share family members’ emails with me if they’d like access to the gallery for downloads.
I am looking forward to capturing images that showcase your accomplishments and your Citadel experience! Please reach out if you have any questions. I’m here to help you feel prepared and excited for a session that will serve as a meaningful reminder of this important chapter in your life.
