How to Prepare for Your Senior Session

A senior session goes better when a little thought goes in ahead of time. None of this is complicated, and I’ll walk you through the specifics once we lock a date. But here’s what helps most, in plain order.

Pick the date for the light, not the calendar

The best light in Northern Arizona is the back end of the day, the hour or two before sunset. That’s when we shoot. If your senior wants fall color up in Flagstaff or golden light at the Dells, those windows go first, so reach out a few weeks ahead. Tell me the school and roughly when you’re thinking and I’ll find the date.

Bring the things that are theirs

The photos that work are the ones built around the actual kid. So bring their stuff. The letterman jacket, the boots, the instrument, the ball, the truck keys, the dog. Those details are what make a senior session look like a person instead of a pose.

Plan the outfits, and bring a second one

One look that’s a little dressed up and one that’s relaxed covers most seniors. If you book the two-location session, plan two distinct outfits so the two spots actually look different. Pick colors that complement the rock and the trees out here instead of clashing with them. There’s a full breakdown in what to wear, but the short version is: fit it well, keep it simple, make it theirs.

Get some rest and eat something

A senior who shows up rested and fed photographs relaxed, and relaxed always looks better than stiff. A session is 30 to 60 minutes of being on, so come in with some energy. If your senior is nervous about being in front of a camera, that’s normal, and I keep the whole thing loose on purpose so it loosens up fast.

Leave a little buffer

Build in time to get there, park, and walk to the spot, especially at places like Watson Lake or up in the pines where the good light is a short hike from the lot. Showing up a few minutes early beats chasing the light because we started late.

I’ll handle the rest

Once we pick a date and locations, I’ll send specific suggestions on outfits and timing based on where we’re shooting and the light that day. You don’t have to figure it out alone. That’s my job.

Book a senior session

If your senior is in Prescott, Prescott Valley, Flagstaff, or anywhere in Yavapai or Coconino County, tell me about them and we’ll set it up. See what it costs and where to shoot too.

See senior pricing