It’s that time of year again when the upcoming senior class get’s prepared for their last year as a High School student. As we all know, senior portrait sessions are huge part of kicking off the school year. So, while we are all in full swing with senior portrait sessions, Kelly from Kelly V Photography thought she’d offer some suggestions for the guys when preparing for their upcoming sessions.

Kelly says, “I think a common misconception is that men don’t care how they look, when really, most of the guys I shoot bring just as many outfits to their session as the girls. Although you’ll naturally gravitate toward your favorite things in your closet, be sure to choose a variety of looks, too. Even one dressier outfit will help round out your photos.

In the first outfit below, I took a classic button-down shirt and made two completely different looks with it. One is dressy, one is more casual. For the casual look, I’d recommend rolling up the sleeves. But if you choose to go the more formal route and you’re looking for funky ties, check out the shopping list. I found a site that’s FULL of them.

While you’re packing, don’t forget to choose something that’s just, well, you. If you wear crazy graphic T-shirts, bring a few. If color is your thing, don’t shy away from it.

And be sure to bring a variety of shoes, too. Different looks need different finishing touches. Ties just don’t go with flip flops. Unless that’s your thing!”

OUTFIT #1

Casual version
Shirt: Gap, $32.99 (sale)
Tee: Gap, $16.50 (two or more $12.50 each)
Jeans: Gap, $64.50
Shoes: Sketchers, $59.00

Dressy version
Shirt: Gap, $32.99 (sale)
Khakis: Gap, $44.50
Shoes: Sketchers, $54.95
Tie: Zazzle.com, $31.75

OUTFIT #2
Jacket: Abercrombie & Fitch, $100
Plaid shirt: A&F, $60
Jeans: A&F, $98
Belt: A&F, $48
Sandals: A&F, $48

OUTFIT #3
Hoodie: Old Navy, $24.50
Reversable shorts: Old Navy, $15.00 (sale)
Etnies tee: Pac Sun, $28.00
Shoes: Journies, $59.99

From the moment that they met, Stephanie knew one day she would marry her new found love Ben. The thought of love at first sight, might be hard for some to believe, but it’s magical when you know you have found the one you couldn’t imagine being without. For these two, it’s so apparent that they were meant to meet and fall in love. There are no words that could explain their connection, but it’s not needed because it’s seen in his eyes when he looks at her and when she smiles he immediately follows.

From the moment I arrived, I knew the day was going to be beautiful. The room was full of family, friends, and laughter. It was a day to remember and that’s why I love doing what I do. Capturing the moments, and love between two people on their wedding day…Doesn’t get any better than that!

Ben and Stephanie were fabulous to work with and I am was thankful to be a part of their special day. I hope you all enjoy the sneak peek of Ben and Stephanie’s magical day!

From the moment I picked up my camera, I knew I wanted to share my passion for photography with those around me. I feel so blessed to do what I love and I now want to pay it forward to those have the same passion for life as I do.

This year I have decided to share my love for photography with one very special couple on their wedding day. For this year’s Wedding Day Giveaway, I will be awarding one lucky couple eight hours of wedding coverage, a $250 print credit, and a cd of all edited images from your special day to share with your family and reprint as you please!

For those who are getting married in 2011 the rules are very simple…

1) Wedding date must be in 2011

2) I must be available on your wedding date ~ If I am already booked on your special day, I will let you know as soon as possible.

3) Your wedding can be ANYWHERE! If outside (within 120 miles) of my normal wedding markets Charlottesville, VA and Paducah, KY travel expenses will need to be paid for.

4) The lucky couple will be chosen by me and announced on August 25, 2010. Closing date is August 10, 2010 so make sure to get your entried in by 12am ETS.

How to Enter…

1) Send your entries to stephanie.reeder@hotmail.com

2) Tell me your story and why you believe you deserve to win the Wedding Day Giveaway.

3) Please also include all the wedding details such as date, location, venue, and wedding party details.

4) Submit a photo of both you and your fiance.

To those who are ready to enter, I look forward to reading your stories and possibly working with you in the near future. It is my passion to tell a story through my lens and I hope those who enter have a beautiful story to tell. Best of luck to you all!