MINNEAPOLIS SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER
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It’s spring here in Minnesota! Are you thinking about senior photos? You should be! If you plan to use a professional photographer, keep in mind that there are limited spots available and calendars fill up quickly. Here are some tips to help you select the best senior photographer for you.
How to Find the Best Senior Photographer for You
What You Should Know Before You Book Your Senior Photos
I’ll try to put these in order of what you want to know first, but just know the answer for everything is research and ask. Your senior photographer might send you info in an email or chat on the phone. Either way, take lots of notes. Yeah, I know it sounds just like school, but it will be worth it! Ask lots of questions and don’t assume anything. If a photographer isn’t open to discussing details or struggles to provide clear answers, that’s a red flag—it might be best to look elsewhere.
Do You Need A Pro?
Look, you don’t need a pro for your senior yearbook photo. But let’s be honest, it’s a milestone, right? You can easily have a friend or parent take a picture for the yearbook. But would you regret that? Would you feel like you missed out? And would you get the look you want? There are many things to consider when creating beautiful photos: flattering lighting, wearing the right clothes/colors, removing background distractions, and post-editing (Psst…check out my 10 Essential Tips for Senior Photos You’ll Love for all the details). If these things are important to you, then hire a pro. If not, then don’t sweat it! Grab a friend and go have some fun.
Not All Senior Photographers Are the Same
So, you’ve decided you want a pro—great choice! Now, how do you find one who’s the right fit? Not all photographers are created equal. Some shoot everything under the sun—brides, babies, houses, you name it. Others, like me, specialize in just a few areas. I recommend looking for a photographer who focuses on seniors and maybe one or two other things (like family portraits). That means they know how to pose you, pick the best locations, and capture the kind of photos you actually want.
The best way to start your search? Ask around! Friends, siblings, teammates—who did they use? Did they love the experience and the photos? Keep in mind that everyone values senior portraits differently. Some want the full glam treatment, others just want a quick session, a few great shots, and they’re good to go (hello mini sessions!). As a Minneapolis senior photographer, I offer options for everyone. Don’t get stuck with a photographer who only does the VIP experience if that’s not your style.
Investment: What to Expect
Senior photos are an investment, plain and simple. Whether your budget is $200 or $2,000, make sure you understand exactly what you’re getting. These days, everyone wants digital images, and that’s totally fine! (I include them in all my collections.) But don’t stop there—ask about prints, albums, and wall art. Will you need to pay up front? Are payment plans available? Surprises are fun for birthdays, not for invoices.
The last thing you want is to fall in love with your photos and then realize they’re way out of your budget. Or worse—find out you unknowingly signed a contract with a minimum purchase requirement that you can’t afford. Know your numbers before you book.
My Top Tip
Start looking now! Seriously. In the Minneapolis area, our window for senior photos is June through October. If you wait until school starts, you might not get your dream photographer or your dream session. And if you’re picturing golden wheat fields or blooming flowers in November… yeah, that’s not happening. Our best outdoor portrait weather is in the summer, so let’s get you booked now and lock in that perfect summer glow. As your senior photographer, I can help you pick the best time for your vision.
Quick Recap: What to Keep in Mind
- Choose a photographer who primarily focuses on seniors rather than one that’s juggling too many types of photography.
- Know what kind of experience you want—whether it’s a full glam, a simple, no-fuss shoot, or something in between. Knowing this before you start your search will narrow down the possibilities.
- Set your budget and find a photographer who fits within it.
- Understand exactly what’s included—digitals, prints, albums—before committing to a photographer to avoid surprises.
- Always sign a contract! A professional photographer will provide one to ensure everything is clear.
Ready to Book?
My Class of 2026 senior photo calendar is open for booking, but spots are limited! Let’s chat about your session and make your senior photo dreams a reality. As your senior photographer, I promise to make this fun and stress-free. Reach out today, and let’s create something amazing!
