Taylor Johnson Photography

High School Senior Photography FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

Your high school senior year is a milestone worth celebrating, and a senior photography session is the perfect way to capture this exciting time. Whether you’re wondering about outfits, locations, or what to expect, I’ve got answers to the most common questions to help you feel fully prepared for your session.

1. When should I schedule my senior photos?

It’s best to book your session at least 3-6 months in advance to secure your preferred date. Many seniors opt for spring or summer before their senior year for warmer weather, but fall is also a beautiful option. If you need your senior photos in time for yearbook deadlines, be sure to check your school’s submission requirements.

2. How long does a senior photo session last?

A typical session lasts about 1-2 hours, depending on the package. This includes time for outfit changes, travel between locations (if needed), and getting comfortable in front of the camera.

In my top package, it could last up to 6 hours. However, we don’t shoot the whole time! A whole day session includes professional hair and makeup artistry, a stylist to assist throughout the day, lunch, and up to 4 locations. This session includes plenty of time to capture everything about you and an easy way to fit in family portraits.

3. What Should I wear for my senior pictures?

Your outfits should represent who you are while ensuring you feel confident and comfortable. I recommend bringing 3-4 outfits for a mini session up to a suitcase if you’re doing a full day session, including a mix of casual, dressy, and something that highlights your interests (like a sports uniform or dance attire).

For seniors, I recommend neutral toned outfits, outfits with pops of color or if your personality screams bold, choose loud outfits that resonate with you. There’s no wrong answer and I will walk you through your outfit choices based on the locations we select.

Here is a wardrobe guide you can use to start planning outfits.

4. Where will my senior session take place?

We can shoot on-location in scenic spots around Spartanburg, Greenville, or Upstate SC, or at my studio for a more classic look. If your senior has a unique idea—like a favorite park or coffee shop—let’s chat! Check out this post for ideas on locations around Upstate, SC.

I offer a variety of location options around Upstate, SC, including urban settings, parks, nature trails, and even custom locations that are meaningful to you. Together, we’ll choose a spot that reflects your personality and style.

I’m open to travel so inquire for a customized quote.

5. When will I receive my photos?

Typically, 1-2 weeks after the session, I’ll invite you to a viewing/ordering appointment. You can select your favorite images for prints, albums, or digital downloads at this time. Photos are typically delivered with in 72 hours of selection.

6. Can I bring a friend or family member to my session?

Yes! Having a friend, parent, or sibling there for support can help ease nerves and make the session even more fun. If you’d like a few photos with them, just let me know in advance!

7. Can I bring props or personal items?

Absolutely! Bringing meaningful items such as musical instruments, sports gear, books, or even your pet can add a personal touch to your photos and tell a deeper story about your passions.

8. What happens if the weather is bad on my session day?

If we’re scheduled for an outdoor session and the weather doesn’t cooperate, we’ll reschedule to the next available date. I’ll always keep an eye on the forecast leading up to your session and discuss options with you if needed.

9. How do I prepare for my session?

Get plenty of rest the night before, stay hydrated, and avoid sunburns or spray tans right before your session. For hair and makeup, you can keep it natural or book one of my sessions that include professional hair and makeup artistry for a polished look.

10. What’s included in my senior session package?

My mini session package includes an hour of shooting, 3 outfit changes, 1 location and 5 high resolution digital photos.

Depending on your dream photo session though, this will vary. Other sessions include an in person consultation, styling assistance, professional hair and make up artistry, additional locations, unlimited outfit changes and more.

It really depends on what you’re wanting for a session. The sky is the limit and we can make anything happen!

11. Can I have a session that includes both indoor and outdoor locations?

Yes! We can start in a studio or indoor setting for classic portraits and then move to an outdoor location for more variety in your images.

12. Do you offer a senior rep or influencer program?

Yes! My Senior Influencer Model Team is open to high school juniors and seniors who want to be part of exclusive styled shoots, gain extra perks, and represent TJP Photography. Applications are accepted annually—learn more here.

2026 applications are currently OPEN. Click here to apply.

13. How much editing is done on my photos?

I believe in natural retouching to enhance your images while keeping you looking like yourself. Light skin smoothing, blemish removal, and color correction are included in every session.

If you’re wanting something more, let me know but I’m not trying to change what you look like. You’re beautiful the way you are and I hope to help you feel that way.

14. Can I order prints and albums through you?

Yes! I offer high-quality prints, albums, and wall art that are professionally printed to last a lifetime. You can purchase prints and albums at the time of your ordering appointment.

15. What happens to the photos I don’t choose?

Which ever photos you don’t select at your ordering appointment are deleted. So please be sure to choose the photos you can’t live without! I’ll be there to help guide you along the way.

Whether you’re looking for instagram worthy photos or classic photos that will stand the test of time, I will help you narrow down to the most impactful portraits from your high school senior photo session.

16. What’s the best way to book a session?

You can book your senior session by filling out the contact form on my website or reaching out via email. Once we confirm a date, the session fee will be collected to secure your session.

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Still Have Questions?

If there’s anything I didn’t cover, feel free to reach out! I’d love to help you plan a senior session that perfectly represents you.

Ready to chat? Click here to inquire about your senior session today!