Now featuring a variety of poses and looks, the senior photo has come a long way from its days as a mere headshot in the yearbook.

Sittings are booked with professional photographers and on-location shoots take seniors across Southeast Michigan. Knowing that senior photos will be on the summer to-do list for many in the Class of 2013, Patch asked Macomb Township photographer Stacy Shaeffer, owner of Stacy Shaeffer Photography, to share a few tips on what to do ahead of time to ensure the best shots on picture day.

Before you meet with your photographer, Shaeffer says "definitely have an idea in mind of what you want." This includes ideas about location.

Location, location, location

Shaeffer loves taking her seniors "off the beaten path" to a setting that "shows their independence and their coming of age." She says seniors should pick locations that highlight their personality.

"If you’re edgy, let’s shoot that edge in front of a graffiti wall downtown. If you’re a country girl, let's go to the barn with your white lacy dress and cowboy boots. Be secure in who you are and don't be afraid to show that in front of the camera."

Some of Shaeffer's favorite locations around Macomb include:

• The island bridge over the water near the condos at Lakeside Mall. "The island is full of woods. It reminds me of where the wild things are."

• The abandoned schoolhouse on Mound Road, south of 31 Mile Road in Romeo. "It's an old 1800s schoolhouse that they never tore down. It's absolutely stunning out there with gorgeous trees, wheat grass and hay."

• The abandoned barn on 24 Mile Road bewteen Card and Romeo Plank. "If you walk around the barn, there are still some haystacks and with all the old wood, it offers a lot of variety."

• The Mall at Partridge Creek at or after dusk.

• George George Memorial Park on Moravian Drive in Clinton Township.

BYOP (Bring your own personality)

Whether it's your varsity jacket or the love of your life (car or significant other), Shaeffer says the best senior photos are those featuring items that represent "who you are right now."

"Whatever brings out your personality," she said. "Don't go buy a new dress, wear what you wore to the party last Friday. Wear what you're comfortable in."

Shaeffer recommends that her clients bring a variety of items and looks that complement the diversity of their personality. Some of these include:

• Sports gear for the athletes
• Instruments for the musicians
• Sunglasses that will reflect the wearer's surroundings 
• A friend, significant other or pet
• A classy outfit, as well as something laid back

Find Shaeffer and other area photographers in the Macomb Patch business directory.

Already take your senior photos? Upload them here!