– Sponsored news – As a senior, there are many things to be proud about: your grades, achievements, relationships, and your senior picture.

You want it! “Wow! factor”When you have the photo in your hands, it is a great feeling. However, to achieve that effect, you need to do some research before you arrive at the shoot.

To make things simpler, we have four tips that will help you capture the perfect picture. They are timeless and can be used to celebrate your personality.

* Know before you go. You can review a photographer’s online portfolio to determine if the images match your style. Instead of hoping that the photographer will understand your vision, choose a photographer who’s work best reflects it. It will save you and your photographer time and energy if you do your research before the shoot.

* Establish a connection. Photographers who are comfortable with their subjects (in this instance, you) will produce better photos. It is important to meet your photographer before you go to take photos. “Feeling comfortable during your photo session is the number-one most important thing if you want to have great, relaxed photographs,”Michelle Moore of Michelle Moore Photography is from Seattle, Wash. She is a member of Professional Photographers of America, a non profit association.

* Ensure that your photographer is a pro. It’s not something you want to be concerned about. Hire a professional to ease your mind. PPA photographer (www.FindaPhotographer.comThe non-profit website ) allows you to search, sort and locate by specialty, browse portfolios, and even get in touch with qualified photographers in your local area. This association has photographers who have the technical and artistic knowledge to capture your unique personality and make you feel at ease.

* Let your parents have a say. While you may have different tastes than your parents, keep in mind that they control the purse strings. They are usually the ones paying. This should be a joint effort that includes both parents and teenagers. “You’ll want to find a compromise in terms of style and budget; but ultimately, it should be a decision that both you and your parents make,”Moore.

For more information, please visit PPA.com/SeniorTips.com.