Parents, listen up, this one is for you! As you know, being a senior is a huge milestone for your kid. And that’s why photographing this moment of their life is so important. Back when I was in school (and probably for you as well) we would get an appointment for a photo session and often go on our own to their studio because we didn’t want our parents being there to cramp our style. But things are so different these days. A lot of it has to do with social media and how we want to share our lives online. Digital cameras and smart phones made it easier than ever to do so, and because of this, the quick photo sessions we once knew are a thing of the past! Seniors now want more photos, outfit changes, and locations than ever before, turning sessions into large productions. So it isn’t something you want to just take a backseat on. Here are six tips why you should be involved in your senior’s session.
1.) It helps alleviate your own stress about the process.
From start to finish, there is a lot involved with senior portraits. Some of it can be stressful so staying on top of things will really help you.
2.) Your senior will need help with their session whether they know it or not.
This can range from taking them shopping, helping to select outfits, locations, hair and makeup, etc. At the session itself, you can give them encouragement, suggestions, and help them look their best by keeping an eye on hair, makeup and clothing, jumping in to fix things when needed. Most often when photographing, I get a parent directly involved by holding a reflector or light. And, as the primary buyer you will be making the decisions with them on packages and products for things like graduation announcements, gifts, or other.
3.) The senior photo process runs smoother.
Booking, buying, planning, etc. This goes with along with what we have already discussed, but without having the central client with buying power involved, it will make things very difficult moving forward.
4.) You will have prints and products that fit with your home decor.
Only you know your home decor needs! Colors, wall space, and decor will all be considered when designing the session and products. Give us a photo of your wall at home and we will show you what your senior’s portraits will look like hanging there in various sizes and groupings!
5.) You can help your senior meet photo deadlines.
There are lot of deadlines throughout their senior year that would require a photo of them such as yearbook, slideshows, awards, news media, scholarships, graduation, the list goes on. Understanding their high school schedule and knowing these deadlines will really save you both from missing out or doing things last minute! I used to be a high school yearbook advisor, so let me tell you, I know full well what that is like! I saw many disappointed, unhappy parents that missed a deadline because they just didn’t know.
6.) It is quality time spent making memories with your senior.
Perhaps most importantly, this is time you will never get back with them. It will be the last year to have them at home if they are moving off to college. Celebrate this time in their life by being a part of it and cherish every moment. And when they do move out, maybe far off, their senior photos are what you will have to remember them by. With a portrait hanging on your wall, they will seem much closer to home, and in your heart.
So don’t sit on the sidelines and miss out on this important moment in your senior’s life! They will definitely appreciate it and look back on that time they spent with you.
If you’re looking for more information and tips, be sure to sign up for our email newsletter below! And follow Brandon Carter Photography on Facebook and Instagram.