As your senior photography session approaches, you’re probably thinking about outfits, hair, makeup and yes, your tan. I often get asked, “Should I tan before my photos?” It’s a great question, and here’s what I always tell my seniors.

First, remember that your natural skin tone is beautiful. Many seniors choose to tan because they feel it will give them a healthy glow in photos. While a slight natural tan can look great, there are important things to consider:

Spray tans can photograph orange. Even the best spray tans often photograph warmer than they appear in person. Cameras pick up undertones in a way our eyes don’t, especially in bright light or with flashes. If you do decide on a spray tan, avoid getting it the day before your session. Aim for 2-3 days prior so it has time to settle and you can exfoliate any areas that look uneven.

UV tanning risks aren’t worth it. Besides the long-term health risks, traditional tanning beds can dry out your skin, causing it to look textured or flaky in close-up portraits. Makeup also doesn’t sit as well on sunburned or overly dry skin.

Embrace your natural glow. As your photographer, I promise your natural skin tone photographs beautifully. I edit images with your true tones in mind, ensuring you look radiant and authentic to who you are right now.

Ultimately, if tanning makes you feel confident and you’ve done it before with results you love, then go for it carefully. If you’ve never tanned before, your senior photos may not be the time to experiment.

You are enough exactly as you are. Choose confidence and comfort over trends, your future self will thank you when looking back at these memories. Let’s talk more and book your session today.