I've learned recently that when people hear the term "Senior photos" they don't immediately think of HS seniors like I tend to do. Some areas don't even promote photography specifically for high school seniors as a common genre, and this is especially true outside of the U.S. In Illinois though, it seems that most incoming high school seniors get their photos taken with their favorite outfits and props to showcase their hobbies, talents and personalities. At the very least, most yearbooks require that seniors have a professional headshot done. Typically, the senior session is done between the junior and senior years of high school, so if you're a junior this year, you'll want to start researching photographers and options NOW! But if you've waited until well into your senior year of high school, it's not too late! Class of 2014 and 2015 seniors, come on down! :) When choosing your photographer, there are a few things to consider. First, you'll want to make sure that the photographer has a portfolio that reflects the type of images you'd like to see come from your custom session. If all the images from a particular photographer are in front of a backdrop and you're more of an outdoorsy type, you may want to research other photographers who specialize in on-location or outdoor portraits. At Holly Birch Photography, I have the best of both worlds for high school seniors! I have a small studio where I can do a few basic, but well-lit images for you (mainly headshots). I prefer shooting on location though, so if you have a favorite alley, parking lot, old building, school gym, park, pond -- or anywhere! -- where you'd like some of your pictures done, then we can make it happen!

Secondly, look closely at the processing that is used on the photographs. This is harder to see to the untrained photographer eye, but if the skin looks completely porcelain and blemish-free, chances are the photo has been majorly doctored. For my portrait clients, I provide light retouching and editing of images to achieve my "signature look." I want the image to still look like you, but I don't want your skin to look plastic. I definitely want to touch up any areas that you're not fond of though, so I'll chat with you either on your pre-session questionnaire, or at the ordering session.

Third, see what pricing and product offerings the potential photographer has. Are there hidden fees? Will you have to spend more on top of the package price to get any prints or products? Do they offer prints only and you'd like digital files? Do your parents want a large canvas and the packages only include wallet prints? At Holly Birch Photography, all senior photography packages include a canvas, and some include digital files. For a limited time, I'm also including a free Facebook timeline cover designed specifically for you with your senior images. AND if you apply for and are chosen as an HBP SENIOR REP, you can get a free session, free makeup application and many other perks just for helping to spread the word about Holly Birch Photography Seniors! Can't beat that!

If you've gone through those steps and you like what you see from HBP, we'd love to have you BOOK YOUR SESSION, or APPLY TO BE A SENIOR REP! I mean, who doesn't like free stuff??! ;)

Now, for a little photo goodness, here are some of my favorite senior images from the past few years, plus 2 videos. Enjoy!