Senior Pictures and their Importance | Tips and Tricks

Why Senior Pictures Are So Important

Whether it was last year or twenty years ago, chances are you remember taking those senior pictures. They didn’t seem like that big of a deal and for some they may have been rather boring. Typically, you got all fancied up and maybe even brought a change of clothes or two while mom tagged along to the local photography studio. Ladies wore a nice dress and the guys put on a suit. Then you waited for those wallet prints that mom would send out to all of your relatives with your graduation announcement.

Over the years, the world of photography has gone from film and dark rooms to digital and fully edited.Things have changed a bit when it comes to senior portraits, too!

There are a lot of things that make the senior year special. It’s the last year of high school… the last year with friends… and possibly the last year at home with mom and dad. It’s all about celebrating this leap from childhood to adulthood. A life stage change. A milestone to beat all previous milestones. Senior pictures are all about documenting that life stage in a way that you can always remember and treasure the person they are right here, right now.

How Do You Choose the Photographer Who is Right for You?

Model Rep for Senior PicturesMuch like any other life event, you should consider your choice of senior portrait photographer the same way you would consider one for newborns, a wedding, or the annual family portraits. It is important to consider the style of the photographer, their personality, and yes, even what they have to offer you.

One of the biggest mistakes people make is simply comparing photographer’s prices on paper.  There are a lot of things that determine what a photographer charges, and so simply comparing pricing doesn’t help you understand that.

What to Look For in a Senior Picture Photographer

Here is a list to guide you:

1.  Style – Be sure to view their portfolios, website, blog, facebook page and any other display of their work whether online or in person. Get a feel for the style of the photography you want and then match that style with the photographer of your choice.

2.  Review Their Bio – It is important as well to learn a little bit about the photographer. Find out why they do what they do and discover their approach to their photography business.

3. Understand Their Experience – A photographer with years of experience is often more expensive than someone just starting out.  That makes sense, right?  It should show in their work as well.  Many people think that because they have a great camera they can take great pictures. There is so much more to professional photography than that. Your photographer should have credentials they can share with you as well.

4.  Word Of Mouth – Be sure to look into reviews and talk to your friends and neighbors. Word of mouth is a great way to find potential photographers in your area.  Happy clients like to share their experiences. Unhappy ones will gladly share experiences to avoid friends and family members going through the same experiences.

5.  Products – Look at what is offered by the photographer. Make a list of what is most important to you.

6.  Set A Budget – Do your budget homework at home. This is often a major purchase. Go into your search and consult knowing exactly what you can and are willing to spend. Once you have those numbers in mind, look at the packages and pricing to find a fit you like. It’s always a good idea to speak with the photographer directly. You may find they are willing to provide unadvertised promotions.

7.  Availability – For senior pictures, you may find this to be less difficult than for a major event like a wedding. However, it is still something that needs to be considered, especially if your school year end or photography deadline is quickly approaching.

Your Final Selection

Try to narrow it down to 2-3 photographers. If you still don’t have enough to go on to make a decision, you can do one of two things:

1.  I always suggest Senior Pictures at Harry Myers Parksetting up a time to talk to the photographer by phone or in person to ask any additional questions before booking your appointment, and

2.  Trust your gut and pick the one you think is right for you.

Are you looking for a senior picture photographer? Be sure to check out our senior picture packages. Schedule your Complimentary Consultation today to determine if we are a good fit for your needs.

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