Looking for your perfect senior portrait experience? Let’s talk about what you’ll want to consider before choosing your photographer.

Vibe Check

Take a deep dive into all of the work they’ve published. This includes their website, blog, Instagram, and any other portfolio they have published. The work you see will be the work you can expect for your session. Photographers, like artists, spend their careers finding and perfecting their style and voice through posing, shooting technique, and editing style. For example, some photographers focus on classic poses with soft lighting, while others may incorporate vibrant colors, unique angles, and dynamic compositions.

Editing & Post-Production

Do they keep their image colors true to life and timeless? Or do they use trendy filters? Which one are you looking for? The post-production process plays a significant role in the final outcome of your senior portraits. 

Consider the photographer’s editing style and what level of retouching is included in their packages. Is skin retouching included? What about flyaway hairs, image distractions, or temporary imperfections? 

What is the turnaround time for receiving your images? A photographer who is transparent about their editing process and timeline will help set realistic expectations and ensure that the final images meet your standards.

Specialization

How much experience do they have? A seasoned senior portrait photographer will have honed their skills in working with teens and understand how to make you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. They’ll be more familiar with the nuances, locations, poses, and techniques. Choosing a photographer with the right experience ensures a smooth, professional session and high-quality results.

Experience

What type of experience do they offer? Are they a “Turn & Burn” photographer? Someone who shoots your session and delivers photos online with minimal interaction or offerings? Or are they someone who offers a complete experience you’ll remember forever – starting with their network of hair and makeup artists and ending with heirloom products.

Personality and Connection

It’s important to find someone who is not only professional but also approachable, friendly, and able to make you feel at ease. A good connection with your photographer can lead to more natural expressions and a more enjoyable experience. Consider having a pre-shoot consultation to gauge whether you feel comfortable and confident with their communication style and demeanor.

Client Reviews and Testimonials

What do previous clients say about their experience? Client reviews and testimonials provide valuable insights into the photographer’s reliability, professionalism, and the quality of their work. Reading about the experiences of past clients can help you gauge whether the photographer consistently meets or exceeds expectations. Don’t hesitate to ask for references if you want to hear directly from previous clients.

Communication & Planning

Effective communication and thorough planning are key to a successful senior portrait session. From the initial inquiry to the final delivery of your portraits, the photographer should be responsive, organized, and clear in their communication. They should help guide you through the process, including outfit selection, location scouting, and posing ideas. A photographer who takes the time to understand your goals and works collaboratively with you will help ensure that the session goes smoothly and that the final images exceed your expectations.

Investment

Understand the photographer’s offerings and pricing. Senior portrait sessions can vary widely in terms of what’s included, such as the number of outfit changes, locations, prints, or digital files. Ensure the packages align with your needs and budget, and ask about any additional costs such as travel fees, extra editing, or purchasing prints. Transparency in pricing and clear communication about what is included will help avoid any surprises and ensure that you get the best value for your investment.

Availability and Timing

Lastly, consider the photographer’s availability and timing. Senior portraits are often taken during a specific season, and photographers can get booked up quickly. Especially during peak spring and late summer. Start your search early and book your session as soon as you can. 

Also, make sure you understand when you’ll receive the final images, particularly if you need them by a certain deadline for yearbooks, graduation announcements, etc. Understanding the way the photographer works ane their lead time lets you book a session in time for a stress-free experience and ensures you’ll get your portraits when you need them.