3 Tips on How to Choose Your Senior Photographer

Getting ready to graduate? I’m going to give you 3 tips on how to choose your senior photographer. First thing you’re thinking about is usually your photos. You’ve gotta have them for so many things – yearbook, announcements, grad party, family, etc. The list goes on. BUT…before we get into what this post is about, let me take a second and say, CONGRATS! 

You did it! You’re here! It’s finally your senior year and it’s your turn. That means you’re at the beginning of closing one chapter of your life and moving on to the next. I’d bet money that you’re so excited for this journey to be complete. You’re ready to take the next step, but there are several things you may be nervous about too. College, moving out, making new friends, jobs, etc. Let me tell you one thing: As you start your senior year, do not let your senior photos be something that you’re nervous about. 

You may be feeling that you’re not that photogenic. Other people are, but you’re not. Maybe you feel you’re not that interesting and don’t have a story to share. That you have absolutely nothing to wear. Well, let me tell you something. 

Almost Everyone feels this way. You’re totally normal. 

You do have a story to share! I know you have clothes to wear (or else we’re addressing something else entirely), and the term “photogenic” is somewhat of a lie. It’s a loaded word and a whole topic in and of itself (posing, lighting, camera angle, etc.). 

So, drumroll please, let’s talk about….

3 Tips on How to Choose Your Senior Photographer

1. Style

This may sound obvious, I know, let’s talk about it for a second. When you’re looking for a photographer, make sure you like their style. You like how their pictures make you feel. If you like bright, colorful photos then don’t choose a photographer whose images give off a dark and moody vibe. There’s more to this than purely “editing style”. A photographer’s style includes locations, clothing colors, light priority, and posing – among other things. It doesn’t mean that you can’t wear a dark colors when you like bright photos. I love to pair black clothes with a brighter environment to give it some really beautiful contrast. Your photographer will be able to coach you though this!

2. Communication and Comfort

Have a little chat with your photographer about what you want from your senior session. See if you like them and feel comfortable with them. Ask for location recommendations and see if they’re helpful.

If you feel comfortable with your photographer it will be easier for you to talk with them about things you may feel self-conscious about. It’s important to know because we think you’re flawless. What you’re seeing, we don’t always feel the same way. You want a photographer that you can talk to and who knows how to help in a positive way.  

We want you to feel your very best and information is our greatest ally.

3. Personalization

There are lot of little things that go into your senior session. Do you care about it being super generic, or do you want it to look and feel like YOU? Personalizing your session is such a fun way to make your senior sessions more fun, reflect your personality, and showcase what you love. This could be in location, props, themes, outfits, and products you order.

4. Bonus: Treats!

This is just a tip for you, but after you have your session, get yourself a treat! If you in downtown Ann Arbor, my top choice is always CANNELLE. Oh my goodness, it’s amazing. It’s best to get there early in the day for the best picks, so it’s work going back for. Head there on Washington Street for a beautiful french treat that’s to die for!

If you want to feel amazing in your senior photos and want someone to walk you through the process, let me know! I LOVE making seniors feel amazing in their session, but also afterward when they see their images. I’m your biggest cheerleader!

Check out a downtown senior session HERE