With so many photographers out there it can be overwhelming to find the right one for your senior. And, typically, it’s a big investment. It's an important milestone and celebration of your kiddo coming into their own.
So to help in your search to find the perfect photographer match, here are some tips I’ve come up with after both shooting senior sessions and having my own session done.
1) Referrals From Friends
Some of your friends may have already taken their senior photos. Ask who they used, if they like the photographer’s personality, if they like the pictures, etc. Be sure to also cover the important facts like:
o Did they get their images when promised?
o Were they happy with the quality.
o Would they use the photographer again?
Someone who has gone through the entire process with a photographer will be able to gauge the experience from start to finish. That being said, don’t choose a photographer just because your friend did! Your needs could be very different than theirs. Which leads me to point two…
2) Not All Photographers Are The Same
Photographers are unique; they have their own style and it’s evident when comparing their pictures to others.
o Is there pose variety?
o Do you want light and airy or dark and moody?
o Do you want posed expressions or candid shots?
Choose a photographer who specializes in what you want; do not settle.
3) Go Check The Photographers Previous Work
Find their online gallery or ask to see some previous sessions.
o Does the editing look natural or more fake porcelain doll-like?
o How about the poses? Candids are fun and important, but a true professional photographer will know how to use light and shadow and how to pose a person to look their absolute best for their body type.
o Are their images sharp and in focus?
o Look at the background of the images. Are there any distracting elements randomly sticking out of heads?
o Can they use light well? This is most noticeable in the eyes. They should sparkle!!
o Were they able to tell a story? Do you feel like you got to know the senior from that session just by looking through their gallery?
4) Price
Price is a big factor, and most often it’s the deciding factor. Your senior pictures are an investment but there is no reason to spend an uncanny amount of money for them.
o What are you getting for that price?
o Is editing included (most all photographers touch photos in this day and age but it is still necessary to check)
o Are there different sessions to choose from?
5) Get To Know Your Photographer
Be sure to visit the photographer's about page on their website. You can usually get a good sense of their personality there. Check out their blog and social media pages too.
o Do you like them? Have things in common?
o Feel like you could be friends in real life? If yes, you are usually on the right path.
The clients that I click with best are the ones that feel like they know me before we even meet in person for the first time. And we usually end up being friends. If you are still unsure if you "click", schedule a phone call to chat. If you don’t feel a connection, move on down the road. You want to feel confident and comfortable with your photographer!
6) Most Importantly , Trust Your Photographer
If you feel the need to send your photographer a Pinterest board with exact poses for them to follow, you probably don’t trust them. Now don’t get me wrong it’s ok to have inspiration, but do not expect exact poses or pictures. Your photographer should have a vision for your senior. And if you’ve chosen the right photographer you will trust them and their vision
Once you find a photographer you love, stick with them! I love documenting all the siblings' senior year portraits as families grow through the years. I love when everyone is excited to see me, even though I may only see them in person every few years. And I feel each session gets better because I am connected with that family on a deeper level every time we shoot. There is nothing better than feeling as if you are a part of that family.
So there you have it. I know it can be intimidating and a little stressful. There's a lot to consider, and I know you only want the best for your baby. All that being said, I would love to be your photographer! If you are interested in a custom session for your senior, please let me know :)
