When is the best time to take senior photos?

The most important factor for stunning photos is time of day. I schedule nearly all sessions within three hours of sunset—what photographers call golden hour. That soft, glowing light is what makes my images stand out. On cloudy or stormy days, earlier sessions can work beautifully too, using even shade and dramatic skies to our advantage. If you have to have a midday session and it's an overcast day, all options are open, however with overhead sun, I usually steer people to urban settings where we can find cool walls and buildings that create good light.
For seniors,  fall of senior year is often ideal. The weather is cooler, the light is gorgeous, and yearbook deadlines are still comfortably ahead. I photograph year-round though, and spring sessions are always popular—just be sure to book early since spots fill quickly!
 

How do I choose a location?
First we'll find out which pictures you like most and if you have an idea of where you want to be. Generally I steer people toward locations that are seasonally appropriate.

Each month in Northern Arizona brings its own unique backdrop:
August – vibrant green mountains and dramatic monsoon clouds
September – fields of blooming sunflowers
October – colorful fall foliageNovember – rich late fall tones in
Oak Creek Canyon and Sedona
December – snowy landscapes or festive holiday vibe
January–April – crisp urban settings with clean winter light or Snowy fields
May-July – everything is beautiful... take your pick!
 

What should I wear / how many outfits?

Bring 2–3 outfit changes to show different looks (casual, dressy, and “you”). Choose clothes you feel confident in, and add accessories for personality. Remember if we are out in the field, you'll need to be able to discreetly and comfortably change in or near your vehicle. (A friend or parent comes in handy for this!) If you need a closed door and room to swap outfits, we'll have to keep this in mind for your shoot. 
 

Can I bring someone with me (parent, friend, or pet)?

Yes! I encourage it. Bringing someone helps you relax. Pets are often welcome too—just let your photographer know in advance.
 

How long do sessions last?

Most sessions last about an hour, giving time for outfit changes and multiple backgrounds. Please see packages for costs associated with destinations outside Flagstaff. They are more expensive because of the extra travel and turnaround time involved.
 

How many photos will I get / how long before I receive them?

30-40 edited images including blemish removal. Every package includes 5 files released to you to turn into your yearbook staff and share on social media. If you'd like all your images available to print outside of my printer, you'll need to purchase the $100 rights package. Turnaround is typically 1–3 weeks, including delivery your "extras" options. 
 

What about yearbook photo requirements and deadlines?

Schools often have specific pose or background rules. Photographers know how to meet these requirements and will help you stay on track with deadlines—book early and keep the photographer in the loop on your deadlines, we can get key photo files to you early if we need to!
 

Do I get digital files and printing rights?

Every package includes 5 files released to you to turn into your yearbook staff and share on social media. If you'd like all your images available to print outside of my printer, you'll need to purchase the $100 rights package. If you don't purchase your rights package, you'll still have access to a gallery of your images for 12 months where you can purchase prints, albums and more with your pictures.
 

What happens if weather or scheduling is a problem?

Sessions are usually rescheduled for bad weather, however unless it's pouring with rain - weather can actually create great pictures so we try to do a proper evaluation as the weather event is unfolding. Photographers plan around golden hour and will work with you to adjust as needed.
 

I feel like senior pictures are expensive... why?
It’s a fair question and I'm going to answer it because I know you've been wondering— the short answer is that photography is much more than the hour we spend together at your session. What you’re investing in is not just “a few clicks of the camera,” but years of training, the best equipment, creative expertise, and many hours of behind-the-scenes work to deliver images that truly capture who you are.Here’s where your investment really goes:

Time & Preparation – Before your session even starts, your photographer is scouting locations, helping you plan outfits, and scheduling around the best light. After the session comes the hours of culling, editing, retouching, and preparing your gallery. What seems like a one-hour shoot often adds up to 10+ hours of professional work

Professional Gear & Software – Cameras, lenses, editing programs, sales and invoicing software and and backup storage are all essential to producing professional results. This equipment costs thousands of dollars and needs to be maintained and upgraded regularly.

Business Costs – Running a photography business means insurance, website hosting, marketing, licenses, studio or travel expenses, and sometimes even assistants. These overhead costs are built into the session fee.

Experience & Artistry – You’re not only paying for a photo—you’re paying for someone who knows how to pose you naturally, use light creatively, and capture images that feel timeless and authentic. That expertise comes from years of practice and education.

Even with premium pricing, photographers don’t actually take home as much as it seems. Once costs and taxes are factored in, margins are modest compared to the time, skill, and expenses required and typically not even as profitable as the trades like drywall, plumbing or framing - facts. Senior portraits are an investment—but they’re also heirlooms that will last a lifetime.
 

Do You Have a Multi-Student Session Discount?
Yes. I offer a $100 on each person if students combine a session. Each student will end up with less time in front of the lens... the session will be extended to accomodate more people but not by a full hour. I don't recommend more than four students combining a session as we will extend the time out of the best lighting situation. These sessions do not allow for a full hour per person which is what accomodates the discount. I generally allow for 30-40 minutes total per person. So, for example, four  students might take 2 .25 hours total to shoot. In these sessions, I always through in a few of the group together as well.
 

How About Other Discounts?
At this point I don't. That said, I completely understand. When I was in high school, my own family couldn’t afford professional portraits either. While I’m not able to offer discounts since photography is how I support my family, I always encourage people to do what works best for them. Photography is a luxury we don't always want to afford -I actually even had a friend photograph my own wedding. That doesn't mean you can't have great photos. Senior pictures can be a wonderful opportunity for newer photographers or hobbyists to practice and build their portfolios—often at a lower cost. Whatever route you choose, the most important thing is that you feel proud of your photos and the memories they hold - I strongly encourage you to find a friend or student or family member and go on a fun outing to capture some great shots.