Army OCP Portraits: Kayla’s Transition From Active Duty
Updated: Oct 10
Which uniform would you choose to remember your service? For Kayla, it was the Army OCPs she wore to work. Her session is a good example of how a working uniform can belong in a carefully made personal portrait.
I’m Austen Hunter of Austen Hunter Photography, a Pensacola military portrait photographer and the 2024 Navy Civilian Photographer of the Year. Here’s a look at Kayla’s photographs and a few things to consider if you’re planning your own.
Key Takeaways
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Kayla’s Army Portrait Session
Kayla, an Army dental hygienist, traveled from Georgia for her session after concluding her active-duty service. She chose OCPs because that was the uniform she felt most comfortable in as she transitioned to civilian life.
We made portraits with the flags and a second set seated against a plain background. You can see how much the treatment changes the result: the flags give context, while the seated portraits leave more space around her and place the attention on her expression. The close smiling portrait brings another side of her personality into the set.
Choosing OCPs for Your Portrait
Dress uniforms are a familiar choice for milestone photographs, but they aren’t the only way to tell your story. If your OCPs are what you associate with the people, work, and daily routines of your service, that’s worth considering for a personal portrait.
I’d start with the photograph’s purpose. Are you picturing a framed portrait at home, a gift for your family, or an image marking your transition out of the military? My complete guide to military portraits walks through those decisions.
Before the session, check the uniform’s fit, condition, and details against the Army’s current uniform guidance. A lint roller and a check for loose threads are simple preparations that help. My military portrait preparation guide covers the rest of the session planning.
“When service members reach a transition point, they deserve more than a quick photo. They deserve a portrait that honors the years they’ve given and the identity they’re carrying forward.” — Austen Hunter
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Choose OCPs Instead of a Dress Uniform?
Yes, we can plan a personal portrait around your OCPs. Choose the uniform that fits the story you want to preserve, and check your service’s current wear requirements. If you want more than one uniform photographed, discuss that when planning the session.
Is This the Same as an Official Military Photograph?
A personal portrait and an official submission can have different requirements. If you need an image for an official purpose, send me the current written specifications before booking so we can confirm whether the session is suitable.
When Should I Schedule Around Leaving Active Duty?
Start with your move, separation, or event dates and tell me when you need the finished images. Leave room for the session, image selection, editing, and any print order. The right timing depends on what you need delivered.
Plan Your Military Portrait
If you’re preparing for a transition of your own, tell me what you want the photographs to remember. You can review my military portrait sessions, then send an inquiry with your timing and uniform ideas.
