SENIOR PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY

Before you know it, you and your son or daughter will be looking for a photographer to take his or her senior portraits.  Most high school students have their portraits done the summer before their senior year.  A senior portrait is one of the milestone portraits in a person’s life and can be a big investment monetarily.  So, how do you choose a senior portrait photographer that is right for your son or daughter?

• Check out the photographer’s blog, facebook page or website to see if you like her work.  Do people look relaxed?  Do they look natural and not over photoshopped?
• Is the photographer someone your son or daughter could work with and feel at ease with?
• Call or email the photographer to ask questions about the portrait session.  Is she friendly, knowledgeable and good with high school students?
• What if it rains on the day of the portrait session?  Can it be rescheduled?  Is there a fee for rescheduling?
• Ask about price.  Like most things in life, you get what you pay for.  Is there a sitting fee?  How much time does the sitting fee cover?  Ask the photographer to send you her price list if it isn’t posted on her blog or website.  Are there any special promotions or package pricing?  Can you buy individual photos or do you need to buy a package first?
• Some photographers take the photos and give you a CD on the spot, but most do not.  Often, the processing can mean the difference between a nice portrait and a great portrait.  Ask what kind of post-processing is done and if there is a fee for each proof that is retouched.
• Ask what kind of camera and lenses she works with.  Does she have her portraits professionally printed?  Professional, quality printing means your portraits will last a lifetime and larger portraits will be mounted and possibly sprayed with a UV protectant.
• Ask the photographer for suggestions regarding clothing.  Will she allow your son or daughter to bring along a pet?  What about sports uniforms, musical instruments or other props?
• How are the proofs presented?  Is there an online gallery to share with family and friends or do you get a proof book?  Do you place your final order online or in person?
• Can your son or daughter order a variety of different wallet poses or is he or she limited to 1 or 2?
• What other products does the photographer offer?  Canvas prints?  Photo albums?  Storyboards?

©2012 Kathy Weigman Photography

If you’re interested in looking at what I have to offer, please check out my website www.KathyWeigmanPhotography.com  for portraits I’ve done.  As a teacher, mom and photographer, I have a good rapport with high school students.  Their session is fun and relaxed, and you get quality portraits at an affordable price.  If you have any questions please feel free to contact me at 733-3425 or [email protected]

~Kathy Weigman