Choosing the Right Senior Photographer - Fun and Games Photos

If you’ve scrolled Instagram or TikTok for any length of time, you know that there is a photographer nearly everywhere you turn! With the rise of smartphones and good digital cameras, many people decided to take on hobbyist photography, and several are now offering senior photos. And while you may know lots of photographers (or even have a family member offer to snap some images), how do you know who is right for you and your senior? How do you know who is worth your hard-earned investment? There are many, many photographers available these days, but only some that are going to be able to capture the heart and soul of your senior. Here are some things to know in your search for “the one”!

-Know your child and yourself: If you are the parent of a high school senior, you are likely the person who knows them best. Are they highly-invested in the process, and already choosing outfits? Are they hesitant to even have their photo taken? These are important considerations as you begin the process of choosing the photographer who will capture their journey. Sit down with your graduate, and have an open conversation about what they (and you) are expecting or hoping for. Discuss things like the budget, and ask them if there is a photographer they want to use. They may surprise you by already having done some research on their own, or suggest a photographer that their friends used. Listen and have an open mind without a lot of expectations or pressure, and hear what they are dreaming up.

-Begin reviewing the options: When looking at photographers, their website and social media is the best place to start (you can find our Instagram here). It will show you recent work and give you an idea of their overall style. A strong photographer will have a consistent style, crisp and clear editing, and a variety of poses and subjects so you can see lots of aspects of their work. They will also be unafraid to walk you through a portfolio or other showcase of their recent sessions! If a photographer has inconsistent style or editing, it may be a sign of inexperience or a lack of range. You definitely want to see a “signature” style even with differing poses, outfits, and locations.

Get the details: It’s important to ask about investment and timeframe when choosing a photographer. Keep in mind that you may need certain photos for graduation announcements, so you want to be sure to book well ahead of time and find out the turnaround. It’s also important to find out an average investment with the photographer you choose. Although they may have varying packages, asking what a typical client spends is a good way to gauge how much you should estimate. It’s also essential to find out what availability they have, and how it will work with your own scheduling around sports, senior projects, or college visits. Lastly, find out how many locations and outfit choices you will get with your session.

Get to know your photographer: One of the biggest components of a senior session is the rapport and trust between the client and photographer. That’s why it’s important to ask questions of your photographer, such as “What do you have in mind for my senior session?”, “How do you describe your style?”, and “Why do you do senior photography? How will you tell my story?” These kinds of questions help you see the heart of the photographer, and oftentimes, you’ll find your values align and you both have the same goal in mind! Remember that stylish senior photos that capture your personality will commemorate your senior year in a way that a stiff, posed yearbook photo never can.

Your senior photographer is capturing an important time of your life, one that you’ll never get to repeat. That’s why it’s important to find the one that can tell your story best…the one who gets the real you! We would love to work with you, and we believe that we can capture the things that make you feel alive and that bring you joy…it’s what we do best!

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