It’s that time of year for high school senior students and we have a guide for those frequently asked questions. Don’t see your question here? No worries, let us know how we can help by filling out the form on our Contact Page
When should I have my Senior Portraits taken?
You may schedule your senior portrait session anytime. Typically Senior Portraits are taken the summer before your Senior year, however, some of our seniors choose to have them taken the Spring of their Senior year while others want pictures in the snow or with fall leaves. Spring and Summer are generally our busiest season. If you want your yearbook image taken during your session, just make sure you check with your school about the photo policies and deadlines so we can submit it on time.
What should I do to prepare for my session?
We recommend that you get a good night sleep before your photo shoot, bring a water bottle if we are shooting outside and have your clothing ironed and on hangers.
How do I choose a place for my Senior Portraits?
Together we will talk about the look and feel that you want for your Portraits. Maybe that means you love fields, streams, and bridges. Maybe you prefer a more modern look with an old abandoned building and cracked cement. Or perhaps you’re somewhere in the middle. Whatever your style is, we can find a location that you love.
Can I bring my parents, a friend or a pet?
Of course! I encourage you to bring someone that will help you relax and have fun. In fact, if you’re under 18, I insist that you bring someone. If you’d like to have some photos with your friend, you might be interested in our Senior & Friends Mini Session add-on. Pets are like family and can be a huge part of your life, we’re happy to include them in your photo shoot.
What if it rains? Do you have a studio to shoot at?
Yes, we have a studio. I watch the weather closely as your session approaches. For outdoor shoots, if there is a high chance of rain, we can reschedule to the next available day/time as soon as possible.
How long will the session last?
A typical Senior Session will last between 1 to 2 hours depending on the package you selected.
How many clothing changes can I bring?
Every package allows for unlimited change of clothing but normally 2-3 clothing changes are just about right for the length of time we will be photographing. I always recommend choosing clothing that you feel great in – if you feel great, you’ll be confident, comfortable, and more relaxed.
When is the best time of day for my Senior Portrait Session?
The best time is usually first thing in the morning [are you an early bird?!] or a couple hours before sunset. However, any time of the day is works and you will love your photos!
I’ve seen some photos in Pinterest or in ads – can we try something like that?
Absolutely! I love to see what my clients have in mind! Follow me on Pinterest, and I’ll follow you back if you have ideas there. You can email or text me photos as well. I love to see what photos you like!
Will we have the option to use props?
Of course anything that has meaning or is special to you, may be used in the photo shoot. I urge against using anything that will look outdated in several years. We want these images to be timeless…
I know what kind of look I want, but I’m not sure what locations to go to in order to achieve it. Can you suggest options?
This is what our pre-session consultation is all about. After getting a little more information about you I will start brainstorming locations to show you during our meeting. These locations are all based on what you like, your style and personality.
What should I bring with me?
Along with your change of clothes, I recommend bringing basic stuff like a brush, powder [yes, boys, you may want to bring some as well!], lip gloss, etc.
Will these images be posted online or on any social networks?
Yes, unless specifically requested otherwise. We love to share your beautiful images online through Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and our Website (images are watermarked). Feel free to connect with us so we can tag you. You are welcome to use any photos I put on Facebook/Instagram/Twitter for your profile picture or wall post. I just ask that you don’t crop out my watermark/copyright. If you would like an image without the watermark please contact me via email at photos@mfinanga.net. Thanks! :)
How far in advance should I book my session?
Ideally, at least a month or two ahead of time (sessions fill up quickly). This will ensure we have enough time for us to meet and plan your shoot, pick a location, etc. Just check for available session openings on our Calendar or Book Online or Contact Us to schedule your session.
How do I order prints and products?
You can place an order in two ways: First, by contacting our studio directly via email (photos@mfinanga.net) / phone (402.810.7984) / fill out the contact form. Alternatively, you can order your prints and products directly from your personal Gallery on our Website. For some of the products such as Albums, Storyboards, and Cards, we will need to talk about the specific layout and photos that you want to use. Prints and Products can be shipped to our studio or right to your door!
What is my personal Gallery like?
I will email you and let you know when your personal online gallery it’s ready [usually about 3 weeks after your Senior Portrait Session], and give you your password. Your Gallery will contain fully edited images from our Session. We’ll schedule your reveal session where you can come to our studio to select your images and order products.
What does “copyright” mean and what am I allowed to do with my photos?
Without getting too complicated, a copyright is the protection of “original works of authorship”. Basically, it means that if you create it, it’s yours. All of my work is copyrighted. Many clients have asked me what is “OK” to do with images or photos, so here are a couple examples of copyright infringement: copying a photo on a copier, screenshots of a photo for personal use [e.g. framing for a wall, Facebook, etc.], or editing a photo to remove the copyright symbol or watermark. If you’re not sure, just ask :)
OK, I decided I want you to take my Senior Portraits, now what do I do?
Great, I’m so excited! To schedule your Senior Portrait Session date and time, you can Book Online or Contact Our Studio and a member of our team will gladly assist you. I’ll get in touch with you and we will schedule your pre-session consultation to discuss more details about your upcoming portrait session. There is a $150 session fee that is due at the time of booking in order to reserve your time & date. Talk to you soon!