"Adulthood is just a never-ending cycle of pretending you know what you're doing." - Unknown
"When are your senior portraits due?"
I know the frustration, really I do.
Your kid didn't tell you it was school picture day, or worse, that senior portraits are on you to arrange and they are due by the end of the week, assuming you want to make the yearbook deadline.
Sound familiar? We raised three boys, and gave up on the drive-through school portraits by middle school. Towards the end, my boys didn't even bother to smile or make eye contact in the school session because "mom is a photographer, she'll do a better one later..."
But if you aren't a photographer or you can't get them to relax around you, then let me try, I've done this quite a few times.
If you are looking for simple pricing but quality images that bring out your kid's authentic self, then let's talk.
When preparing for your Senior portraits, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
- Q: What are your prices and do I have to buy products or prints?
-A: I am very transparent with all my prices, I have nothing to hide. Check out my pricing here. You have to option to buy digitals and/or products & prints.
- Q: What kind of products/gift ideas do you offer
-A: I have multiple amazing products from canvas, framed art, metal prints, acrylic displays and portfolio boxes. I'll provide you the list after the session.
- Q: Can parents/family attend/watch the session?
- A: Parents you are most welcome to observe, but I would consider not hanging around during the session, unless your Senior really wants you there, I find they generally act differently and relax more when they away from the parents. Want to add a sibling to the session (great holiday photo!) let me know in advance, a flat fee will be charged for each add-on.
- Q: What's the best time to schedule the session?
- A: Think about when your Senior performs best, I'm not really a morning person even after having to be one in the Navy for 3 decades, I also get "hangry" at specific times (thanks again to the Navy). I'll work with you to schedule your Senior to avoid times that might negatively impact their mood. In terms of when during the year, the earlier the better, i.e. July - October, we live on the east coast and the weather for outdoor sessions is limiting in the Spring, before you know it graduation is upon you!
- Q: What should I wear to my session?
- A: Choose outfits that represent you and your personal style and most importantly that you feel comfortable in. I also recommend solid colors and avoiding busy patterns that can be distracting or clash with the background. Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you chose the outside package, we will be walking around Old Town, and nine inch heels on cobble stones aren't ideal....jus' sayin' (or bring extra ones to walk in.)
- Q: Do you offer hair and make up?
- A: I'm a no thrills studio so if you need hair and makeup that's something you'll have to arrange before coming to your session, lucky for you I do have a salon upstairs from me, called Stylists at North. Makeup is a personal choice, if you typically wear it then apply as you would normally but avoid wearing it too heavy as it will be very noticeable in a close up portrait, especially if it starts clumping (mascara). What is too much makeup? It really depends on you, but remember you want to be recognizable.
- Q: Should I shave before the session or get a haircut?
- A: Shave early enough before your portrait session to give your skin time to recover and nicks to heal. Ladies if you are wearing bare arm outfits or short skirts/shorts and usually shave, then don't forget to do so.
- Q: Can I bring props?
- A: Absolutely! You are welcome to bring props that represent your interests or hobbies, this will add a personal touch to your photos and make them more unique. Some examples: hockey/lacrosse/drum sticks, college banner/flag, instrument, letterman jacket, etc. I have a blue cap and gown you can borrow.
- Q: I wear glasses is that a problem?
-A: Please wear your glasses, especially if it's part of your persona. When people describe me, I'm the "curly, crazy lady with glasses" besides I can't see without mine, so I imagine you're in the same boat. I'll make every effort to keep the glare to a minimum.
- Other Reminders:
- Hydrate and get rest before your portrait, my camera sees everything.
- Bring several outfits to choose from so we have options, even if you are only taking one picture, you may be surprised to see that your favorite clothes don't actually photograph well. It’s better to have too many to choose from than not enough. My studio has a private changing room.
- Bring your pressed outfits with you, avoid wearing them or eating in them prior to arrival. Studio lights and an expensive camera will pick up every detail, every wrinkle.
- Don't worry about blemishes or pimples, I can retouch those as if they were never there (included in the package.) Chapstick is recommended for everyone to help keep your lips from looking dry on camera.
- Relax and we are going to have fun (I promise!); your senior portrait session shouldn't be stressful.
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