Senior Portraits In The 518: What Every High School Senior Should Know

Senior year has tons of milestones—and senior portraits are one of the biggest. Senior Portraits have come a long way!  Senior Pictures aren’t just for the yearbook; they are a way to capture who you are at this moment before graduation, college, or whatever you may be planning next. If you’ve never done a professional photo session before, don’t stress out. Here’s everything you need to know about Senior Portraits in the 518 to feel confident and prepared.

Why Do Senior Portraits?

Senior portraits mark the end of your high school journey and the beginning of a completely new and exciting chapter. They can be used for:

• Yearbooks
• Grad announcements and Thank Yous
• Family keepsakes
• Social media and personal memories

Years from now, these photos will remind you not just of how you looked, but who you were.

When Do You Schedule Senior Portraits?

Most seniors schedule portraits during the summer before or early in the fall of Senior Year.  This timing is important because it:

• Avoids yearbook deadline stress
• Gives you more flexibility with dates and times
• Allows you to choose outdoor locations before cold weather hits

👉 Tip: Find out about the school about yearbook photo deadlines early so you don’t miss them.

How to Choose the Right Senior Photographer

Not all photographers are the same. When choosing one consider:

• Style:  Look at their portfolio to see if you like their style (natural, dramatic, bright, moody, etc.)
• Ask what’s included in the session (number of outfits, how long is the session and how many locations are included)
• Check reviews

Note:  Some schools also partner with specific photographers specifically for the “official” yearbook photos, so be sure to confirm requirements.

What to Wear (and What to Avoid)

Your outfit should feel authentically you.  But also know that these photos will be enjoyed not just now, but years from now.  So be sure that there is at least one clean, classic look that you won’t cringe looking at 20 years in the future.

Good choices:

• Solid colors or subtle patterns
• Clothes that fit well and feel comfortable
• Layers (jackets, cardigans) for variety

Try to avoid:

• Wrinkled or uncomfortable clothing
• The wrong undergarments
• Poorly fitting clothing

Bring 2–3 outfit options if possible—casual, dressy, and something that shows your personality.  Layers are also a fabulous way to get a wide variety in your Senior Pictures.

Senior Portrait Hair, Makeup, and Grooming Tips

• Get a haircut at least a week before your session (not the day before).  Same for color/highlights, etc.
• Keep makeup natural unless you’re experienced with heavier looks
• Bring hair products, lip balm, and a brush for touch-ups

The goal is to look like the best version of yourself, not someone totally different.  If you like, we are happy to recommend Hair and Makeup Stylists in our area.

Locations and Props For Senior Sessions

We offer studio sessions, outdoor shoots, or both. We can even do the traditional formal Yearbook photo in our studio.  Popular outdoor locations include but are not limited to:

• Parks and nature trails
• Urban areas or downtown streets
• Your school or another meaningful place

Props are optional but can be fun if they authentically reflect your interests—sports gear, instruments, books, or even a pet.

How Much Do Senior Portraits Cost?

Prices for Senior Portraits can vary depending on:

• Session length
• Print and digital packages

Always ask what’s included before you book your Senior Portrait Session to be clear on what is and what is not included.

Day-Of Senior Session Tips

• Get a good night’s sleep
• Eat beforehand—Hangry is not a good look!
• Lay out all your outfits and props the night before.
• Make sure all your outfits are cleaned, pressed and you have all components
• Arrive on time to your appointment to avoid stress
• Trust your photographer to bring out the best in you

Feeling nervous is normal, but confidence builds quickly once you start.

After Your Senior Session

With our studio, you will come back about a week after your Senior Portrait Session to view your photos.  We help guide our clients with the following:

• Narrowing down your yearbook submission
• Decide what products or digital images you would like to purchase

Final Thoughts On Senior Portraits In The 518

Senior portraits should be about more than just looking good.  They should be about celebrating who you are right now. Avoid stress by planning ahead.  Most of all be yourself, and enjoy the experience. This is your moment, so make it count.

Good luck, seniors—and congratulations on making it this far 🎓📸

Be sure to check out our post on the Hottest Senior Portrait Trends, as well as our Senior Portrait FAQs.

To schedule an appointment, please fill out our Contact Form today.