Senior Portrait FAQ: Everything You Need to Know Before You Book | Baton Rouge Photographer

If you're a senior (or a parent of one) starting to look for a photographer, you probably have more questions than answers right now. That's normal — senior pictures are usually a once-in-a-lifetime session, and most families are booking one for the first time. Below are the questions I hear most often, answered honestly so you know exactly what to expect.

How much do senior pictures cost?

This is almost always the first question, and the honest answer is: it depends on what's included. A session fee typically covers my time, a set number of outfits and locations, and the editing that follows. Prints, albums, and digital image collections are usually priced separately, on top of the session fee. In Baton Rouge, most families end up spending somewhere between $500 and $1,200 once everything is said and done, though it can run higher or lower depending on how many products you add.

The best way to avoid surprises is to ask for a full price list before you book — not just the session fee — so you can see what a realistic total looks like.

When should we book?

Earlier than you'd think. Senior sessions are seasonal — spring and early fall tend to book up fastest because the light and scenery are at their best, and because those windows work well before yearbook and graduation deadlines. I recommend booking [3–6 months] ahead of when you want to shoot, and even earlier if you have your heart set on a specific season or outdoor location.

How long is a session, and how many outfits/locations do we get?

A typical senior session with me runs 1–2 hours, which is enough time for 2–3 outfit changes and 1–2 locations without feeling rushed. If you want more variety — say, a change of scenery from an urban backdrop to somewhere more natural, or an outfit that requires driving to a second spot — let's talk about that when we plan your session, since it may affect timing or pricing.

What should my senior wear?

Plan for a mix, not one single "right" outfit. A good rule of thumb:

Bring one polished, classic look (great for parents who want a traditional portrait), one that reflects your personal style — the outfit you actually want to wear — and one casual option like jeans and a favorite jacket or sweater. Solid colors and soft textures photograph better than busy patterns or logos, and it's worth ironing or steaming everything the night before. If you're not sure whether something will work, send me a photo ahead of time — I'm happy to weigh in.

Do you help with posing? I'm not photogenic.

Yes — and you're not alone in feeling that way. Almost every senior tells me some version of "I don't know what to do with my hands" in the first five minutes, and almost every senior relaxes by the end of the session. I'll direct you through poses and expressions rather than leaving you to figure it out on your own, so you don't need experience or confidence in front of the camera. That's my job, not yours.

What happens if it rains?

Weather happens, especially if we're shooting outdoors. If conditions won't work on your scheduled day, we'll reschedule for the next available date at no extra cost — no need to worry about losing your session fee over something out of anyone's control.

When will we get to see the photos, and how are they delivered?

Turnaround time is typically 2–3 weeks from your session date. You'll get access to an online gallery where you can view, download, and share your images, and order prints or products directly if you'd like. I'll let you know your exact timeline when we book, especially if you're working around a yearbook deadline — those sometimes require a faster turnaround, so flag that early.

Can my parents come? Can friends come?

Of course. Parents are welcome and often love being there, especially for a milestone session like this. As for friends, one supportive friend is usually fine, but a whole group can be distracting for you and for the shoot — I'd rather you feel relaxed than like you're performing for an audience.

Do you retouch the photos?

Yes. Every delivered image gets standard editing — color correction, lighting, and light skin retouching so you look like the best version of yourself, not like a different person. If you want more extensive retouching, we can talk about that as an add-on.

What if I need to reschedule?

Life happens. Let me know as soon as you can, and we'll find a new date that works!

Sarah Shaw is a Baton Rouge photographer specializing in weddings, families, and seniors — drawn to natural light, genuine connection, and the quiet in-between moments that mean the most.