If you have a son or daughter in the midst of their senior year, chances are you know how overwhelming things can be. Between classes, athletic meets, rehearsals, tests and the ever-looming stress of ‘what comes next?!’ you very likely already have way more on your plate than you care to deal with. Worrying about senior portraits can feel like an afterthought, one more hassle to have to deal with….or it can be something you can look forward to, if you know how to ask the right questions and find the right photographer for you. If you are currently in search of an Anna High School senior photographer, be sure to consider the following things:
What style of portraits do you want?
Usually when selecting a photographer, the first thing on most people’s mind is what the overall cost will be. No worries, we are going to get there, but before you even think about that, I urge you to step back and envision the type of portraits you would love to receive. So many times when people are unhappy with an experience with their photographer, it simply turns out to be a conflict between what was envisioned and the work that the photographer traditionally produces. So think about what you want. Do you prefer a studio set up with backdrops and props? A rustic outdoor setting? Artificial or natural light? Relaxed or formal? Candid or posed? Be sure to sit down with your son or daughter and discuss these options before you even begin your search. Once you have a good vision in your head, it will be so much easier to find photographers in your area that already specialize in that type of portraiture and simply narrow your options down from there.
Do you have an editing preference?
At the risk of getting too technical, every photographer has their own style of editing. This process is often something that has been developed and is very personal to each photographer, so be sure to search for photographers with a similar editing style to what you are naturally drawn to. The 3 main common ones you will find are classic (colors, shadows and highlights are true to life), light and airy (light, pastel tones, bright whites, low contrast) and dark and moody (earthy tones, deep shadows and contrast). If you are having trouble envisioning the differences, feel free to click the links or do a google search to get a better idea of what each one looks like.
Do you want digital images?
Be sure to ask your prospective photographers whether or not digital images are included in their packages. Some specialize in wall art and albums, whereas others deliver only digital images through an online gallery, and some provide a mix. Be sure to ask what their packages entail, how much additional digital images will cost, and how ordering is done so that there are no surprises at the end.
Which season do you prefer?
Okay, a bit of a no-brainer, but I have to say it anyway. If you are wanting fall colors, or spring blooms or simply needing to get your portraits finished by a certain deadline for yearbooks, make sure to plan ahead! Many senior photographers book up months or even years in advance, so don’t wait until the last minute to start your inquiries. (And a special hint? Summer before senior year is a GREAT time to plan your portraits).
And a few last things to consider….
I promise that just as much as you want an enjoyable senior portrait experience that will be a joy to look back upon, your photographer wants the exact. same. thing. And just as you and your senior are a unique personality, there are so many unique photographers to choose from. Don’t let the choices get overwhelming. Start your search early, and be sure to follow your prospective photographers on their facebook and instagram pages. You can tell a lot about a person’s style and personality simply by following them and checking out the work they put out on a regular basis. Most of the time, you will know it when you find someone that is going to be a great fit. So trust your gut, and be sure to get in touch with them.
And if you are currently looking for an Anna High School senior photographer, I would love to chat! Be sure to get in touch to get a conversation going today!
Christina Freeman is an Anna High School senior photographer serving McKinney, Plano, Frisco, Wylie, Lucas, Celina and other Collin County communities. She seeks to photograph the fun and messy moments that connect us all in our ordinary lives, from the very beginning to the very end. Get in touch if you have loved everything you have seen so far and would love to start a conversation today!