*updated 5/18/2024

I spent some time combing through my emails to find the most commonly asked questions about Senior Photos.  I’ve compiled those questions and answers here.

 

Everything you need to know about Senior Photos.

When should we schedule?

Right now!  Typically, the summer before Senior year, Milwaukee area high schools will send yearbook photo deadlines to all parents.  Try to schedule the session at least six weeks prior to that deadline, so that there is plenty of time for editing (on my end) and ordering (on your end).  If your deadline is quickly approaching, just send me an email or text and I’ll do my best to fit you in. The earlier you schedule, the more options you’ll have for dates.

 

When will we shoot?

For the best light, sessions take place at either 9am (Third Ward and a select number of other locations) or in the evening, about 1-2 hours before sunset depending on location.

 

What if it rains?

As we all know, Milwaukee’s forecast changes on a dime.  When rain is predicted, I prefer to wait until 3-4 hours prior to the session before making a rescheduling decision.  If the weather remains uncooperative, we’ll work together to find a new session date right away.  I keep open evenings in my calendar for just this reason.

 

How long will my session take?

Senior Experience and Senior Simplicity sessions take about an hour — it really depends on how many changes of clothes are brought and where we’re shooting.  I’m able to offer a more accurate time estimate once I have that information.  Some seniors really enjoy the whole experience of the session and when I work with kids like that, we take our time and make the most of it.

On the other hand, a lot of kids just want to be done as soon as possible.  If that’s the case, check out my Senior MINI sessions.  These quick and easy sessions are done in 20 minutes and result in a variety of images to choose from.

After 19 years of photographing kids and families, I’ve learned to work very quickly and it does not take long at all for me to capture a beautiful gallery of photos for you.

 

How many outfits should we bring?  What should they wear?

Plan on bringing 2-4 outfits, depending on the session type you choose.  If your senior isn’t into the whole outfit change thing, then one ‘look’ is just fine.  We will chat about outfits/looks prior to your session so that your gallery will filled with images that uniquely represent your senior!  I’m happy to make suggestions for outfit types if some direction would be appreciated

 

Where will we shoot?

I have a ton of favorite locations in and around Milwaukee and we will chat during the booking process to decide which location will work best with your senior’s style.

 

Who should come to the Senior Session?

I love, love, love offering a family photo and/or sibling photo at the start or end of each senior session.  Pets are welcome, too, as long as there’s someone available to contain them during the session.  Best friends are also welcome to jump in for a few photos (bringing a friend as a Hype Girl/Guy is a great way to bring out the genuine smiles and laughter), but they should plan on booking their own session if they want any solo shots.  Combined sessions are available and will result in each senior receiving a full gallery of solo shots, plus several shots of the kids together.

 

The yearbook requires a studio photo, can you do that as well?

Yes, my Walker’s Point studio is conveniently located for a quick yearbook photo before or after your session.

 

How much is the session fee and what’s included?

Senior Simplicity sessions are $495, limited to weekdays and include 5 digital files, printable to 8×10.

Senior Experience sessions are $1295 and include all of the digital files, printable to 8×10.

Looking for something a little less … involved?  The Senior MINI session is $325 for one senior, one outfit, one location and three digital files printable to 8×10.

Click here for a PDF that outlines the rates and inclusions for all session types.

 

How long until I see my pictures? How does ordering work?

My goal is to make the ordering process fun, easy and as stress-free as possible.  Within a day or two or your session, you’ll find a sneak peek of your photos on Facebook and Instagram (only with your permission of course).  Within two weeks of your session, your gallery will be made available on an easy-to-use online ordering website for 7 days.  This ordering period offers you (and anyone you choose to share the gallery with) plenty of time to view the images, think about how you’d like to display them and place your order.  During this time, I always make myself available in order to quickly answer any questions you may have, and even meet with you in person or via Zoom to place the order together.

Because my workflow relies on upholding this 7-day ordering period, I will check in with you before posting the gallery, so that you’re able to check your calendar to make sure you’ll have the time and mental space to focus on choosing your images.

Your ordered digital images will be provided to you via both Dropbox (a free file sharing service) and Mpix (an excellent consumer lab).   Prints, cards and books will be carefully prepared by me, printed through my professional lab and shipped directly to your home.

 

What about retouching? 

Ordered images will be retouched to your liking.   During the ordering process, you’ll have the opportunity to add notes to each image detailing any editing that you’d like.

 

I still have questions!

No problem, simply text me (414-690-3962) or send me an email and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.

 

This sounds great, I’m ready to book!

Awesome!  Just click here, fill out the forms and I will reach out to chat about locations, outfits and I’ll answer any questions you may have.  From there, we’ll choose a date which will be confirmed upon receipt of the session fee.

Senior MINI sessions can be booked right online.  Easy, right?!