Senior portraits mark one of the most significant transitions in a young person's life. The photos taken during this time will be looked at for decades, framed in family homes, shared with grandparents, included in graduation announcements.
That kind of significance means I approach every senior session with real intentionality. I want images that feel authentic, not forced. Confident, not stiff. Fun, while still being timeless.
Here's what I've learned after shooting dozens of senior sessions:
Location matters more than you think. I always ask my clients about places that are meaningful to them: a park they grew up in, a sports field, their favorite coffee shop. When a location has personal resonance, that feeling comes through in the photos.
Outfit variety creates visual interest. I recommend 2-3 outfit changes, mixing dressy with casual. Start with whatever feels most "you" so we can hit our stride before moving on to other looks.
Movement creates life. My favorite senior portraits aren't the posed ones. They're the moments between poses, when my clients are walking, laughing, or just existing naturally in the frame.
Relax into it. Most people feel awkward in front of a camera. That's completely normal. My job is to make you forget you're being photographed.