About Me: I'm Chelsea Zettler and I am the lady behind the lens. I'm stationed in little ole' Sesser, Illinois, where everybody knows everybody. I specialize in senior photography but enjoy photographing women of all ages, as well as their gorgeous families. The reason I do what I do is, I love making women of all ages see just how beautiful they are. It's so important for a women to feel confident in her skin. Especially those young women who are about to embark on the huge adventure of life after high school. A confident women can do anything she puts her mind to and that's why I've made it my mission to spread confidence through my photography.
When I'm not behind the camera or sitting at the computer editing, you can find me hanging with my very own little ladies and my handsome husband/photography partner. We're "running through fire" with two toddlers, just 22 months apart. Some call us crazy for having them so close. And, we mostly agree! My family is the glue that holds all of my crazy together, though. And trust me, it's a lot of crazy!
Tip 1
Dress your best!
- When you're confident in what you're wearing it truly shows!
- Too many patterns can draw the eyes away from your gorgeous face. So, keep it simple!
- Something casual, something dressy, something form fitting, something with a looser fit, something that's YOU!
- Cameras can wash your skin out. To look your best, it's important to wear at least a little blush and mascara. If you can, this is a really great time to splurge on professional hair and makeup. It really makes a difference.
- Layering colors and textures adds interest to the most basic of clothing, no matter the time of year. And an added bonus, dressing in layers allows you to save time, by changing your clothing without finding a dressing room.
- Adding a matching necklace, earrings, or scarf not only gives your outfit more personality but they also act as a fun prop during closeups.
Tip 2
Location, location, location!
Choose A Location That Fits You
- Do you love being outdoors? Or is your style more urban? It's important to find a place that fits your personality.
- Save time at your session by choosing a location with many different background options. But keep in mind that it's best to avoid distractions in the background. (For example, try to avoid high traffic areas where people or vehicles may be in the background.)
- Consider the time of day and lighting when choosing your location. Early morning or late afternoon/evening sessions usually make for the best lighting.
Tip 3
Wait on drastic changes!
- Thinking about chopping off your hair or going for a new color? Just in case something goes totally wrong, schedule these changes at least a week before your session or wait until after. You're better to be safe than sorry.
Tip 4
Practice makes perfect!
- Researching ideas and poses, that you love the look of, will make you feel more comfortable when your photographer directs you during your session.
- Although it may feel silly, once you find poses you like, practice them in front of a mirror. This way you'll know exactly how the pose is supposed to feel and look.
Tip 5
Get to know your photographer!
Not All Personalities Mesh
- Sitting down with your photographer before your session can be the difference between a seriously amazing senior session and an awful uncomfortable experience. Make sure your personalities match up so that you can focus on YOU during your session and not how much you're hating the experience.
What's Your Style?
- Not all photographers shoot the same. Research your photographer's style before you book them. If you don't see the look you're going for, it's very unlikely that you'll achieve that look with that photographer.
Before every senior session with Chelsea Rae Photography we sit down and discus your style, your clothing choices, your location options and I get to know you! Your senior session should be all about who you are!
Think Chelsea may be the photographer for you?!
Want to learn more?
Click the link below to schedule your very own sit down with Chelsea Rae Photography to discuss the different senior portrait sessions and availability.