Congratulations on becoming a senior! This is an extraordinary time in your life. You are going to make so many unforgettable memories throughout the year and you’ll want to capture these moments with one-of-a-kind portraits.

Have you considered hiring a professional photographer? I know you might be tempted to ask your friend or family member to take some photos of you, but they simply won’t be able to give you those magical shots that a professional photographer can. 

Choosing the right photographer can be overwhelming because they are all so different from one another and have so many different styles. Don’t worry, I’ve got your back! I’m here to help navigate the process of choosing the right photographer for you.

Here are 8 things to consider when selecting the right photographer for your senior portraits:

1. Look for a photographer that specializes in senior portraits: Be certain to select someone that has experience working with seniors and teens. They know how special these times are and will be able to make you feel comfortable, confident, and radiant in front of the camera. They have the passion to empower you and make you shine and have the skills to capture all the different sides of you. 

2. Focus on the experience: Understand what services are included with your photoshoot. Does it include professional hair and makeup? Does the photographer guide you with what to wear or have a style closet? Is the photoshoot designed around you and how you want to be photographed? Do they offer the print products that you are looking for? Not all photographers provide the same experience so make sure you understand what is included in their offer and, especially, what is not.

3. Do your research, involve your parents and ask your friends: Look for good customer service. Word of mouth is one of the best ways to get an honest opinion. You can start by asking your friends and family but also read the reviews and testimonials. This way you can get a good idea if the photographer will deliver the experience you want.

4. Get to know your photographer: Do you know the person behind the camera? Go to the “About Me” page on their website to learn a little more about them. Also, follow them on social media for a look at behind-the-scenes, stories, and posts. This will give you a glimpse into who the photographer is in real life. Your photographer should be someone you want to work with and makes you feel comfortable in front of the camera. Someone you can have fun with throughout your portrait experience but will also be able to capture your true beauty and authentic personality.

5. Hire a professional: Senior year only comes once in a lifetime. Why not hire the best professional to document this important milestone?  Remember, it takes more than just fancy gear to take a good photo. When you work with a professional photographer, you will benefit from their years of experience, including knowing how to work with natural and studio lighting, where to find the best locations for your shoot, and how to compose a great shot.

6. Photography style: Remember, professional photographers are people, too! They all have different personalities, styles, and techniques. I recommend visiting the photographer’s website and looking at their gallery. Make sure you resonate with their works by looking at the way they use lighting, posing, color, and composition. Some photographers are light and airy, while others can be dark and moody. Find the style you love and a photographer who can deliver it, this way you’ll be able to go into your photo session confidently knowing what to expect. 

7. Editing is Key: This is a big one!  Editing style can make or break an image. When it comes to retouching, ask your photographer how they handle blemishes, texture, and redness in the skin. Make sure you choose a photographer who isn’t going to over-edit your images!  Your senior portraits should look like you and not like a doll with plastic skin. 

8. Investment: When choosing a professional, you will get products and prints that will last for years to come without peeling or fading. Make sure you don’t settle for just digitals because technology changes like the tides. Do you even remember floppy disks? One day you’ll wake up and your digital storage solutions will be outdated or obsolete. Or worse, your drive will crash and all those memories will be gone forever. I recommend looking for a photographer who offers high-quality products like photo books and wall prints in a variety of sizes. They will last a lifetime and will be enjoyed for years after the digital version is gone.

For my final advice: Ask questions to whomever you choose to work with and make sure they understand what your expectations are. These are your senior photos and they will be around for a long time, so you will want to make sure they are what you envisioned!

As always, I’m here to help you create your ideal Senior Portraits!

With Love,

Mariela

Discover the secret to capturing your unique personality and style through senior photos. Follow these top five tips + tricks for choosing a photographer based on their artistry, editing skills, experience, and budget