What to Look for in a Senior Photographer


Your senior year is a huge milestone! It’s the season of "lasts" and "firsts" all rolled into one. From last high school dances to first steps into adulthood, this chapter deserves to be captured in a way that feels like you. And honestly, those senior portraits? They’re not just for now. They’ll be cherished images for years to come...


But here’s the thing… finding the right senior photographer can feel overwhelming, right? How do you know who’s the right fit for you?


Why Senior Photos Matter

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of finding a photographer, let's take a moment to talk about why senior portraits are such a big deal.


Senior photos capture this moment in time. They’re your victory lap after years of hard work. Plus, they’re versatile! You’ll see these images on graduation announcements, gifts for family, social media posts, and, of course, framed on your parents’ wall forever (you know it’s true).

I think Senior photos should tell your story. They’re not just about pretty pictures; they’re about celebrating who you are, what you’ve achieved, and where you’re headed.


The 6 Things to Look for in a Senior Photographer


1. A Style That Matches Your Vibe

The first step is finding a photographer whose style resonates with you. Most photographers showcase their work on Instagram or Facebook. Take some time to scroll through their posts, but also look at their portfolios on their websites.

Ask yourself this as you browse:

“Can I see me in these photos?”

“Do I love the mood and feeling these images create?”

"Is this a timeless style, or trendy?"

The right photographer will have a style that feels like home, whether it’s artsy, elegant, or full of personality.

2. A Personality You Click With

This one’s huge. Your senior photographer should be someone who makes you feel comfortable in front of the camera. No forced, awkward smiles here. Instead, think of your shoot as a collaboration where you can be your truest self.

When chatting with potential photographers, keep an ear out for how they communicate. Are they friendly, warm, and encouraging? Because trust me, a good vibe makes a world of difference on shoot day!

3. Versatility and Experience

Flexibility is key when it comes to senior portraits. Whether you want multiple outfit changes, props like your favorite instrument or sports gear, or a location that is special to you, the right photographer will be able to adapt to your ideas AND be able to merge that vision with the technical skill needed to execute on it.

Experience matters. An experienced photographer know how to work with different locations, lighting conditions, and personalities. They’ll make sure your gallery is as stunning as you imagined.

4. Storytelling through posing & styling

Ever had that feeling when you stare at the camera and freeze because you have no idea what to do with your hands? We’ve all been there. That’s why finding a photographer who gives excellent posing guidance is non-negotiable.

A great senior photographer will help you feel at ease while capturing candid moments and perfectly posed shots. They’ll also offer tips on styling to make sure your outfit choices shine on-camera. (Also, shoutout to layering and textures for adding depth to photos!)

Bonus tip: Make sure they’re cool with incorporating personal touches into your shoot. Whether it’s featuring your favorite book, your sports jersey, or that iconic leather jacket, little details make your photos extra special.

4. Rave Reviews & Recommendations

Want an insider’s opinion? Ask for reviews! Whether you’re checking Google, Facebook, or word-of-mouth recommendations from friends, hearing about other seniors’ experiences can be incredibly reassuring.

If people are saying things like, “I felt so confident during the shoot!” or “They really captured my personality,” you know you’re working with someone who gets it.


Questions to Ask Before You Book

Here are some questions to ask when talking with potential photographers:

  • “What’s included in your session packages?”
  • “What happens if it rains on shoot day?”
  • “Do you help with posing and styling advice?”
  • “How long will it take to get my final photos?”

These conversations aren’t just for logistics; they’re also a great way to get to know your potential photographer’s personality and approach.

Your Senior Portrait Journey Starts Here

Choosing the right senior photographer is about finding someone who not only takes great photos but gets who you are. It’s a personal decision, and trust me, when you find the one, you’ll just feel it.

If you’re ready to start planning your dream senior session, I’d love to be part of your story. Whether you’re looking for classic elegance, bold creativity, or something beautifully in between, I'm here to help make it happen.

Let’s bring your vision to life. 🎓✨


I can't wait to take your picture,

~Meg