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What to Expect With Senior Portraits?

What to Expect With Senior Portraits?

November 20, 2024

As a senior, you’re probably having a good amount of “Wow, this is not like the movies” moments. No rolling out of bed and grabbing a perfectly toasted waffle, your backpack is actually incredibly heavy, and actually, pop quizzes are very real and very awful, and you groan, “Man, I just wanna get out of here,” 24/7.

While senior year isn’t as romantic as it looks on screen, you’re actually living through something far better than the movies. You’re stepping into a new era—and every day is a milestone carrying you toward your next scene.

And this moment? You’re never getting it back, so it needs to be one you can forever look back on

And you know what the greatest thing you can do for your future self is? Creating a senior portrait yearbook to flip through one day when you’re a high-powered corporate ladder-climber or astronaut or whatever it may be, and you need to be reminded of where you came from and where it all began.

It's All About You: Making You Feel at Home

For many seniors—whether you’re tossing your high school cap or ready to wave goodbye to college—it may be the first time in front of a professional camera. Sure, we’ve all had those random iPhone photoshoots with our best friend at a coffee shop or endured the awkward holiday family pic where your mom insists on “just one more,” but booking a senior portrait session? That’s something different, something special.

My top priority? Making sure you feel comfortable, safe, happy, and confident. Because I’ve been there myself - and I know firsthand how nerve-wracking this time can be. You’re wrapping up years of school, saying goodbye to friends, and staring down an unknown future. But let me tell you from personal experience - booking a senior portrait session is a perfect way to step back, take a deep breath, and celebrate who you are right now.

The spotlight is, rightfully, on you. Maybe you thrive in this light, or maybe the idea of being at the center of a camera screen is a nightmare - either way, every moment of our shoot together is designed to make you feel at ease. I want your voice, your personality, and your unique quirks to come through in every shot. We’ll have plenty of time to talk before the shoot, so I can get a sense of who you are—what makes you laugh, what inspires you, and what you’re passionate about.

I'm here to make this experience as enjoyable and memorable as possible, and I’m always happy to hop on a call to chat things over and hear your ideas.

Difference Between Yearbook Photos and Senior Portraits

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We all know the drill on school picture day: You put on your best shirt, pat down your hair nervously, and step out of your room enveloped in a cloud of hairspray. Then you wait impatiently in line as your classmates shuffle awkwardly in front of you, hugging their elbows and forcing uncomfortable smiles while the photographer impatiently adjusts their chin this way and that. And then, a few weeks later, you’ll stare in horror when you realize your mom proudly posted them on Facebook. 

I ensure our time together is nothing like that. Unlike the hurried, one-size-fits-all yearbook photo, your senior portrait session is all about you. We make sure it goes at your pace, in settings that genuinely reflect who you are. There’s no line of classmates watching you, no rushing—just a relaxed and natural vibe where you can literally let your hair down. Whether you’re sitting under the glow of a Texas sunset, posing around downtown Austin, or smiling in a field of wildflowers, it’s all about capturing the real you.

Booking a professional senior portrait isn’t just getting a few high-def Insta pics; it’s an investment in yourself. Senior pictures let you freeze this important moment in time, capturing your unique personality and story and who you are at this moment in time.

That’s why I value open communication every step of the way. I encourage you to consider me as both your photographer and friend who will listen to your ideas, answer your questions, and make you feel at ease. A pre-shoot chat helps me learn about your interests, school activities, and future plans—so when we get to our session, we’re not just taking photos; we’re telling your story.

What to Wear on Your Senior Portrait Session?

One of my favorite parts about being a senior photographer is seeing the outfits seniors pick for their photoshoots—(and helping you choose them if you need it!) It’s a fantastic way to stand out and express yourself. Choose the right outfits for your senior portrait session —the ones that make you feel amazing and that will spark nostalgia years from now when you can tell your kids, “This is what we wore back then!”

Here’s a quick snapshot of my favorite tips!

  • Neutrals for a Classic Look: Black, white, tan, and grey are always safe.
  • A Pop of Red for Drama: Cherry shoes or a deep red shirt can add a pop of contrast.
  • Nature-Inspired Tones: If we’re headed into the woods or a grassy park, think earthy tones like greens and browns.
  • Bold and Bright for the City: Think tomato red, yellow, or pink for those city pics
  • Comfort First: Trust me, scaling rocks in heels isn’t worth it. Pack some sneakers and change into your heels once we’re there.

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Creative Senior Portrait Ideas:

Your senior portraits should be a reflection of you—your interests, your passions, your future dreams, etc. Here are a few ideas to get spark some inspo:

  • Cap and Gown: Iconic and essential. A classic graduation look.
  • School Spirit: Bring your letterman jacket, future school pennant, or acceptance letter. We can also shoot at your school’s stadium or an iconic building on campus.
  • Highlight Hobbies: Maybe it’s a guitar, a basketball, or a stack of art supplies; bring along the items that help make you, well, YOU.
  • Celebrate What’s Next: If you’re college-bound, wear some merch or bring a flag!
  • Candid Lifestyle Shot: Walk around, laugh, be in the moment—I’ll snap away.
  • Nature: We can find a field, a park, or a quiet spot by the water to get some soft, natural shots.
  • Black & White: The drama is real!

Perfect Locations: Options for Stunning Senior Photos in Austin, Texas

Lakeway:

  • Lakeway City Park
    • Lush greenery, lakeside views, and walking trails.
    • Calm, outdoor vibes
  • Hamilton Greenbelt
    • Beautiful creeks, bridges, and wooded trails.
    • Golden hour is stunning
    • Rustic, natural background
  • Rough Hollow Yacht Club
    • Marina views, yachts, and a lakeside vibe
    • More sophisticated look
    • Perfect for seniors who want a more upscale backdrop

Westlake:

  • The Wildflower Center at Lady Bird Johnson
    • Colorful wildflowers, natural landscapes, and beautiful architecture
    • Vibrant setting that feels relaxed and casual
    • Gardens and stone walkways
  • Barton Creek Greenbelt
    • Scenic hiking trails, rock formations, and waterfalls
    • Ideal for adventurous seniors.
    • Water shots and wooded, forest backdrops
  • Austin Country Club
    • Classic country club aesthetic
    • Polished & formal look
    • Variety with well-kept gardens, pathways, and lake views

Cedar Park:

  • Brushy Creek Lake Park
    • Large lake, walking trails, a fishing pier, and plenty of open green spaces
    • Laid-back, natural look
    • Ideal for seniors who want an outdoor backdrop with options for both open and shaded areas
  • Twin Lakes Park
    • Picturesque lakes, wooded trails, and a boardwalk area
    • Variety of natural settings in one location
    • Great for both candid and posed shots with a mix of water, forest, and open fields
  • Elizabeth Milburn Park
    • Open fields, sports courts, and picnic areas
    • Ideal for seniors involved in sports or who want a more casual, community feel
    • Relaxed shots in a chill, friendly environment

Downtown Austin:

  • South Congress Avenue (SoCo)
    • Quirky shops, cafes, and the iconic “I love you so much” mural.
    • Casual, lively vibe 
    • Great for candid shots with the street as a backdrop
  • The Long Center for the Performing Arts
    • Views of the Austin skyline
    • Sophisticated, urban look with city views
    • Great for sunset shots with the skyline in the back 
  • Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail
    • Waterfront views, bridges, and the lake trails

Celebrating All Seniors: High School & College

As a senior and couples photographer, I’ve had the amazing opportunity to work with both high school and college seniors. It’s so fascinating to see the different vibe of both groups, which has really deepened my ability to connect with both and empathize with you at this time in your life- I’ve been there both times!

For High School Seniors

It’s so fun to see high school seniors confident and excited. Many want to showcase their school pride or hobbies, often with set plans for the future—whether that’s heading to college, entering the workforce, or going after passions.

For College Seniors

I’ve noticed that college seniors tend to be a bit more reflective. They’re preparing to enter the “real world” or deciding between graduate school and other career paths. There’s often this mix of pride, relief, and uncertainty. 

Either way, it’s my ultimate goal to create a comfortable environment for you, no matter which bucket you fall in to be able to express these complex feelings and emotions about the future.

If you’re interested in learning more or would like to explore ideas for your session, check out why you should take senior portaits.

Conclusion

Whether you’re closing the chapter on high school or college, this is a time worth celebrating, and senior portraits allow you to pause and appreciate who you are right now. 

They’re an investment in memories, freezing a pivotal moment before life takes you in new directions. Years from now, you’ll flip through these images and relive these times. So, let’s create something meaningful together—portraits that reflect your story, your personality, and your future unfolding right before your eyes!

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