A Guide for Parents & Students

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Choosing a senior photographer is about so much more than just checking a box on your to-do list—it’s about capturing a once-in-a-lifetime milestone in a way that feels meaningful, authentic, and true to your teen. Senior portraits celebrate the unique personality, style, and spirit of your high school senior as they stand on the edge of a brand new chapter. Whether your teen is camera-shy or can’t wait to pose, the right photographer will make them feel seen, celebrated, and confident every step of the way.

But with so many photographers out there, how do you know who’s the right fit? This guide is here to help parents and students navigate all the important things to consider—from artistic style and session experience to budget, products, and personality fit. Whether you’re just starting your search or narrowing down your options, these tips will give you the clarity and confidence to choose a photographer who will capture this exciting season with heart and intention. Let’s dive in!

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📌 Table of Contents

• Start With the End in Mind
• Consider Style and Aesthetic
• Look at Experience and Specialization
• Session Experience Matters
• Read the Reviews
• Understand Products and Packages
• Budget and Value
• Plan Ahead for Scheduling
• Connection Is Key
• Important Questions to Ask

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Start With the End in Mind

Before you start searching, take a moment to talk with your teen about what they want from their senior session. Do they imagine cozy fall photos in a field of golden grass? Something artsy and editorial in-studio? Urban, natural, classic, colorful? And just as important—where will these images end up? Whether it’s a custom-designed album, graduation announcements, or a statement piece for the wall, knowing your goals will help you choose a photographer who can deliver exactly what you’re dreaming of.

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Consider Style and Aesthetic

Every photographer has a unique style. Some specialize in light and airy looks, others in rich colors or moody edits. Spend some time scrolling through potential photographers’ websites and Instagram feeds. Does their work feel like something your teen would love? Does the editing feel consistent across their portfolio? When you choose someone whose style already matches your vision, you’ll love the results even more.

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Look at Experience and Specialization

Not all photographers specialize in senior portraits—and that matters. A seasoned senior photographer knows how to pose and prompt teens naturally, understands how to help them feel at ease, and is familiar with things like yearbook submission deadlines and what locations work best for certain seasons. Experience makes a big difference in how smoothly the entire process goes.

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Session Experience Matters

A great session is more than just showing up and smiling. Many photographers offer styling advice, wardrobe help, and guidance on everything from choosing locations to what to expect on the day. Some even offer professional hair and makeup add-ons. Ask about the level of support you’ll receive. A relaxed, well-prepared session makes for more confident and genuine photos.

With Shelley Schaffer Photography you will receive several touch points and consults leading up to picture day. I do not just show up and shoot. Together we will have hammered out several details prior our session date so everyone is on the same page and knows what to expect.

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Read the Reviews

Word of mouth is everything. Look for testimonials on Google, the photographer’s website, or social media. What are other parents and seniors saying about their experience? Pay attention to comments about how comfortable they felt, how much fun they had, and whether the photos turned out better than expected. Those real-life stories say a lot.

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Understand Products and Packages

Photographers offer different types of packages—some are all-inclusive with digitals and prints, while others separate the session fee from the ordering appointment. Think about what’s most important to you: do you want high-resolution digital files? Archival quality wall art? Albums or grad announcements? Also consider product quality—professional print labs used by photographers offer a level of quality you can’t get at consumer print shops.

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Budget and Value

Senior portraits are an investment, and it’s worth understanding what’s included in the pricing. Ask for a full breakdown of session fees, digital files, prints, and products. While it can be tempting to go with the lowest price, value matters more than just cost. You’re investing in a once-in-a-lifetime experience and artwork that will last for generations.

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Plan Ahead for Scheduling

Senior sessions tend to book up early—especially during popular times like fall and spring. It’s best to book a few months in advance to ensure your preferred date and to meet any yearbook deadlines. If you want outdoor photos with golden leaves or blooming flowers, timing is everything.

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Connection Is Key

At the end of the day, the most important thing is how your senior feels in front of the camera. The best photos happen when they feel relaxed, seen, and celebrated. Many photographers offer consultations or discovery calls to see if it’s a good fit. Trust your gut—if the vibe feels right, you’re in good hands.

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Important Questions to Ask

To help you make your decision, here are a few smart questions to ask potential photographers:

• How long is the session, and how many outfit changes are allowed?
• Are hair and makeup services available or recommended?
• What’s included in the session fee?
• How and when will we view the images afterward?
• What happens if we need to reschedule due to weather or illness?

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Final Thoughts

Choosing a senior photographer is about finding someone who can turn this milestone into a lasting memory. When you find the right fit—someone whose style you love, who understands your vision, and who makes your teen feel amazing—you’ll end up with photos that feel truly them.

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💬 Ready to Learn More?

If you’re just starting your search and want a personalized, full-service senior portrait experience here in Northern Colorado, I’d love to chat with you! Feel free to get in touch here or send me a message to learn more about session availability.