Unique Senior Pictures Photo Shoot Locations, Plus 30+ West Michigan Photographers Ready to Go

Senior portraits are meant to capture and celebrate a student’s completion of high school. These photos are often used in school yearbooks and handed to friends and family as mementos. They will also likely be on display at graduation open houses and posted to social media.

The price of senior photos varies wildly and is dependent on factors like:
• photographer’s experience
• length and location of photoshoot
• demand for photographer’s services
• turn-around time

We’ve seen prices for smaller photography sessions (sometimes called “mini-sessions”) or with photographers just starting out at around $125. Depending on the factors listed above, costs increase from there. Be upfront with your budget when vetting senior portrait photographers — many will work with you on custom packages.

Some photographer’s pricing includes all digital files and printing rights, others offer specific print packages or will let you buy professional prints a la carte from an online store.

Another senior photo cost — sometimes overlooked — is the cost of new clothing, footwear, and accessories for the photo shoot.

Unless you enjoy feeling rushed, schedule senior photos for the spring of the junior year or summer before the senior year. This will give you ample time to get the photos taken, selected, and processed before your school’s yearbook deadline in the fall.

Depending on your photographer, the amount of time needed to get on their schedule will vary. Generally, the earlier you begin your photographer search, the more options you will have.

It’s not impossible to start the senior photo process in the fall of the senior year, but you will be rushed and may end up compromising on your location and photographer options. You may also need to pay a rush fee or end up taking the photos yourself.

Most students get senior portraits taken before starting their senior year in the summertime, but some senior pictures are taken in the early fall.

Yearbook photo deadlines are usually the driving force behind the timing of senior photos and these are typically in the fall.

At the minimum, you’ll need to bring your outfit selections. Also consider bringing makeup and a hairbrush for touch-ups between shots along with a mirror.

Props are common among athletes or musicians and other students with a strong interest in a subject. Sometimes the family pet is also included in a portion of senior pics.

The amount of time booked for your senior pictures photo session will depend on your photographer and your desired outcome. Most photographers will offer a certain number of outfit changes and may even offer location changes, within reason.

On average, expect to spend at least an hour, but up to two or three.

Outfit selection for senior photos is a big deal and can be a stress point between the student and parent. In general, it’s a good idea to pick clothing that the senior feels comfortable and confident in and that reflects their personality.

To find style and outfit ideas, check relevant hashtags on TikTok and Instagram – some to consider are #SeniorPictures #OutfitInspo #2025Grad #OutfitIdeas #SeniorPortraits