Senior year is an exciting milestone, however that excitement can slowly fade during the search for the right senior photographer. There are hundreds of choices, from hobbyists to professionals, with each offering a range from digital “shoot-to-share” packages to more exclusive high-end boutique services.
With such a large number of senior photographers available, it will not be hard to find someone to capture senior portraits for your family. However, because this is a once in a lifetime celebration for high school seniors, you don’t want to just pick a name from your internet search. You also may not want to choose someone because a friend chose them. What works for them, may not be a good fit for you. Instead, aim to choose a photographer whose style, offerings, and perspective on value align perfectly with what your family is looking for.
To help you navigate this important decision-making process, here is a three-step guide to finding the right photographer for your senior portrait experience.
Review the Senior Photographer’s Style
Parents and seniors hardly share the same style, which is kind of expected and 100% ok! Seniors often want images that are vibrant and fun with color pops and editorial feels that cater to their social feels. Parents, on the other hand, lean towards those ultimately timeless images that won’t feel dated in the next decade. When searching for and choosing your photographer, inquire on how they handle this dynamic. You want to hire a professional who expertly bridges the gap between the two different styling approaches. The right photographer will be able to design a senior session where the two styles can live together in the same gallery, without sacrificing one style for the other.
Look for What You Want, Not Just What They Offer
There are many families who are looking for a quick portrait process. Something with a standard backdrop, a single outfit, and a digital gallery complete with traditional photos of their senior. If this is what you’re looking for, then a boutique photographer may not be the best choice.
But, if you are looking for a professional to handle every stress-inducing detail of the session, look beyond just a photoshoot. Whether it involves location scouting, wardrobe assistance, or even live gallery viewing sessions, it should be seamless. If this is your aim, you want a full-service boutique photographer who readily builds a relationship with your scholar. If offered, take advantage of the complimentary consultation. This opens a door to ask questions and truly meet the photographer. Ultimately, it helps you decide whether to move forward before making a monetary investment.
Prioritize the Value of Your Investment
Finally, consider what happens after the last camera click. We know that we are currently in a time of digital dominance. Even so, a milestone as precious as senior year should not dwell solely on a fragile hard drive or cloud server. If your interest rests with digital files only, there are many photographers who are eager to work with you.
However, if you prefer a high-quality return on your investment, you will want to search for a brand that places priority on transforming your favorite images into custom products such as: heirloom albums, modern framed wall art, and other custom items. A boutique photographer will honor your family’s legacy with tangible products that you can enjoy for generations to come.
Can we be of service to you? At Marcella Colette Photography, our full-service boutique approach values quality over quantity. We handle every detail with you in mind. And, we intentionally collaborate with you to bring your photo vision to life. If you’re looking for a great return on your investment, you are in the right place. We look forward to working with you.
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