Are you a high school senior thinking about graduation photography? Since you only get to be a high school senior once, you might be wondering about senior pictures. This article will answer some common questions you may have about senior photography.
When Should You Plan to Have Your Senior Pictures Taken?
We typically take senior pictures in the summer between your junior and senior year of high school. While some students wait until school starts, others have senior photography done as late as December. However, it’s essential to check your school yearbook deadline first and work backwards from that date. Find out how long it takes to see proofs from the photography shoot and how long it takes for your senior pictures to be ready after you order them. The main tip is: Don’t wait until the last minute. If possible, schedule your senior pictures in August or September to ensure they’re completed in time for the yearbook.
If you prefer fall colors, plan your senior portrait session for early October. This should allow enough time to receive an online proof gallery and make your yearbook selection. Be mindful that some yearbook deadlines are in October. For the yearbook photo, you typically don’t need to order all your pictures right away. Once you select your yearbook photo, I will retouch it and send it to the school, so you don’t have to wait for a complete order.
Where Should You Have Your Senior Pictures Taken?
Senior portraits can be done in an indoor studio or outdoors. Many seniors prefer outdoor sessions. When I photograph high school seniors, we often shoot in downtown Northfield or at one of the local colleges or green spaces. Northfield offers many beautiful locations. Over the years, senior pictures have become more natural and less formal, allowing for more creative locations and various backgrounds at no additional cost.
Can You Bring Friends Along For Pictures?
Absolutely! You can bring friends or family members to your session, and we can even take some photos of you with your friends. I’ve also done sessions with multiple seniors together, so if you want to include a friend, let me know.
Props For Senior Pictures?
If you play an instrument, participate in sports, have a hobby, or have a pet, feel free to bring items that reflect your personality. I always make sure to capture some photos with these items to give you great options for your senior pictures. Bring your pet along, too; we can get some fun shots of the two of you.
Other Details
Once the photographs are completed, you will see your pictures in an online photo album within two weeks. This album can be shared with others, so your family and friends can view them as well.
When viewing the online pictures, select your favorites and narrow them down to about a dozen. Many seniors find it challenging to choose because there are so many great pictures, which is exactly what I try to provide you. For your yearbook photo, choose a closer shot to ensure your face is clearly visible. For the other pictures, decide which ones you like best for wall prints, gifts, and graduation invitations. You can order as many senior pictures as you like!
What About Graduation Invites From Your Senior Photography Session?
There are many great options for graduation invitations. I recommend ordering 5×7 press-printed invitations for your graduation party. We c an customize these high-quality invites with your favorite photos and personalized text. This is a great way to share your beautiful senior photos with others, and the recipients can keep them as mementos. There is a style for everyone among press-printed invites.
These are some key points to consider as you prepare for your senior photography experience. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. I’d love to help you get answers to your questions. View more samples and see the senior photography pricelist.