Senior Portraits: A Guide for Parents

We get it.

There are SO many things on your to-do list during your child’s senior year. We know the last thing you need is stress revolving around senior portraits. So, at Shadowlands Photography, we do things differently.

At Shadowlands Photography, we know senior year is a milestone, and we’re here to make the senior portrait experience seamless, fun, and stress-free for both you and your teen. Below, you’ll find answers to the most common questions parents ask about our process, pricing, and what to expect.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why should I invest in professional senior portraits?

Senior portraits capture a once-in-a-lifetime moment and celebrate your teen’s achievements. Our professional photography ensures high-quality, timeless images that will be cherished for years.

2. When should we schedule my teen’s senior session?

We recommend booking as early as possible—ideally in the summer or fall before senior year—to secure the best availability and outdoor scenery options.

3. How long does a senior portrait session take?

Sessions typically last between 30-90 minutes, depending on the portrait session experience you choose and the number of outfit changes.

4. Where will the session take place?

We offer in-studio and on-location shoots. Locations can include urban settings, natural landscapes, or meaningful spots to personalize the experience.

5. Can parents be involved in the session?

Absolutely! Parents are welcome to attend and provide support, but we also encourage giving your teen space to relax and enjoy the process.

6. What should my teen wear?

We recommend 2-3 outfits, including casual and dressy options. Avoid busy patterns and logos. We also offer wardrobe guidance to help choose the best looks.

7. Do you offer hair and makeup services?

Yes! We have professional hair and makeup artists available for hire to enhance your teen’s natural beauty while keeping them comfortable and confident.

8. What if my teen isn’t comfortable in front of the camera?

That’s completely normal! We specialize in helping seniors feel at ease, using guided posing and a relaxed environment to bring out their natural expressions.

9. Can my teen bring props or personal items?

Of course! Sports gear, musical instruments, books, or any meaningful items can add a personal touch to the session.

10. Do you offer group or friend sessions?

Yes! Best friend or sibling mini-sessions can be added to make the experience even more fun.

11. How much do senior portraits cost?

Our experiences start at $250 and vary based on session length, locations, and included products. Contact us for a detailed pricing guide.

12. What’s included in a senior portrait experience?

Our experiences vary depending upon the type chosen. ALL Shadowlands Photography high school senior portrait session experience, however include:

• A gift card to shop with in the online proofing and shopping gallery after the session

• Unlimited outfits (you are only limited by your session time)

• Unlimited locations in Fort Wayne (you are only limited by your session time)

• Pre-session planning party (via Zoom or FaceTime )

• Mastering of your session images (including skin retouching on all ordered images)

• 30 days online proofing & shopping gallery plus in-person session reveal/ordering options

• Access to custom-designed print & products

• Flexible add-on upgrade options (such as additional time, locations outside of Fort Wayne, professional hair styling & makeup application and more) outfit changes and an online gallery.

13. Do you offer payment plans?

Yes, we offer flexible payment options to make professional portraits accessible for all families.

14. How long will it take to receive the final images?

You’ll receive a proof gallery within about 6 business days, and final retouched images within 6 business days after selections for products are made.

15. Can I order prints and albums?

Yes! We offer professional-quality prints, canvases, and custom albums to showcase your teen’s portraits beautifully.

16. What if the weather is bad on the day of our session?

During a pre-session phone chat, we’ll lock in a date as a backup in case of inclement weather.

17. Can my teen change outfits during the session?

Yes! We encourage outfit changes to add variety to the final images. Many locations have places to change.

18. Do you edit or retouch photos?

Yes, all final images are professionally edited for color, lighting, and minor retouching (such as blemish removal). We keep the edits natural to maintain authenticity.

19. What if my teen has braces or acne?

We offer light retouching to minimize distractions while keeping the images natural. Let us know if you have specific requests!

20. How do we book a session?

Booking is simple! Click here to schedule online or contact us directly to find the perfect date and portrait session experience for your senior.

Ready to Book?

Senior year flies by—let’s capture this milestone together! Reach out today to secure a session and create lasting memories of this special time.

Learn more:

• Why does investing in senior portraits matter?