This soon-to-be-graduate’s heart matches his good looks. He was a blast to work with—so easygoing and kind. He was up for just about anything, so we played around with various backdrops for his senior portraits. As the third brother to pose in front of my lens for his senior session, he may have had a little preparation going into his session. However, the three brothers have their own unique personalities, skills, and styles to capture in different ways. It’s truly been an honor to watch this family grow and see these young men so excited for the next step in their lives. In true little-brother fashion, Kyle is not shy and rocked a red paisley-print shirt for his session. Since we used natural backdrops with lots of greenery and downtown murals, the bold color worked perfectly! If you need ideas for graduation pictures, Kyle’s bold session is sure to inspire.

Tip: If you’re wearing a solid color or printed shirt, choose one that matches your eye color to make your eyes pop even more. The blue paisleys on Kyle’s shirt really accentuate his handsome blue eyes.

3 Ways to Personalize Your Senior Portraits

Whether you’re a parent or a teen looking for ideas for graduation pictures, I have a few tips on how to get photos that authentically represent your style and personality—and how to have more fun, too!

Pick a location you love.

The easiest way to be yourself is to immerse yourself in what you love. While senior portraits require some posing, my goal is to photograph the true you. No forced smiles or awkward poses here! Before our session, let me know a few of your favorite places and what you like to do for fun. Does urban energy make you come alive, or do you shine best near a quiet park or hitting the trails? Do you gravitate toward the arts, or do you like the idea of a more industrial scene? Austin has endless location options: bridges, parks & trails, murals, architecture, storefronts, coffee shops, and more! What feels most like ‘you’?

Nail your look.

Have you seen those funny photos of little kids dressed in flouncy outfits picked out by well-meaning parents? The scrunchy noses, folded arms, and deadpan looks say it all. If you don’t like what you’re wearing, your portraits will reflect that. Instead, use your senior portrait session as an opportunity to pick out a new outfit or two you feel amazing in (your photographer said it’s ok 😝 ). But truly, when you feel good in your attire, your portraits will reflect the happiest, most confident version of yourself! It’s easier to strut your stuff when you like what you wear. Are you a sneakerhead? Don’t forget to play up your look with footwear—it can change the vibe entirely.

Do an activity you enjoy.

Feeling a little camera-shy? That’s ok! We’ll chat and move throughout your session, and I’ll guide you through from beginning to end. I have a feeling you’ll warm up in no time. But to break the ice, bring some props or do an activity you enjoy.

For example, if you’re in band, bring your instrument. If you play a sport, bring a ball or some equipment. Items like pointe shoes, letterman jackets, and jerseys are great options to bring along for your photos. You’re welcome to tumble, dance, build, skate, or paint your way through part of our session together. I want to photograph you in your element. Let me know what you have in mind, and we can try to work it into the session!

Senior Portraits by Cory Ryan, Austin Portrait Photographer

Showcase this milestone year with portraits you’re proud of. Get in touch with us to start planning your senior portrait session. Need more ideas for graduation pictures? We’re happy to help!

Follow us on Instagram @coryryanphotography for more ideas and inspiration.