Ever feel like your senior photo sessions are missing that special spark? Let’s change that. Whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned pro, it’s time to ditch some habits that might be holding you back. Today, we’re diving into the top 5 Things to STOP Doing as a High School Senior Photographer. By avoiding these common pitfalls you’ll be on your way to creating more authentic, beautiful, and profitable senior sessions. 

Alright, let’s jump right into it. The first thing you need to stop doing is over-retouching photos. Less is more when it comes to retouching. I know, I know, it might be tempting to smooth out every little blemish and imperfection, but clients want to see themselves, not a plastic version of themselves. Your job is to enhance their natural beauty, not erase it. A little retouching is fine, but don’t go overboard. Your clients will love seeing the best version of their natural selves, and it will definitely make your work stand out.

Next up, number two: Stop using generic posing. One of the biggest complaints I hear from seniors is that they don’t want their photos to look like everyone else’s. Avoid cookie-cutter poses and instead, focus on making each session unique. 

Pro Tip: Get to know your client, understand their personality, and tailor your posing to fit them. This not only sets you apart from other photographers but also gives your clients a more personalized experience.

Moving on to number three: Stop ignoring client input. This is a big one! Your clients want to feel involved in the process. Ask them about their interests, hobbies, and style preferences. Encourage them to bring props or outfits that mean something to them. When clients feel like they’re part of the creative process, they’re more likely to love the final product—and refer you to their friends!

Alright, we’re halfway through. Number four: Stop neglecting a social media presence. In this digital age, social media is your best friend. It’s not just about posting pretty pictures; it’s about engaging with your audience, sharing behind-the-scenes content, and showcasing client testimonials. Make sure you’re active on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, and don’t forget about stories and reels—they’re great for showing your personality and the fun side of your business. You can also use relevant hashtags to increase your reach! Consistency is the name of the game, so make a schedule and stick to it! 

And finally, number five: Stop relying solely on natural lighting. Yes, natural light is beautiful and can create beautiful images, but what if the weather doesn’t cooperate? Or what if you’re shooting indoors? Learning to use artificial lighting effectively can be a game-changer. It gives you more control over your shots and allows you to create different moods and effects. Invest in some good lighting equipment and take the time to learn how to use it. Your clients will appreciate your ability to adapt and produce amazing results no matter the lighting situation.

Making these adjustments can give your business a boost and help you stand out in the world of senior portrait photography. When you focus on being authentic, adding that personal touch, and being flexible, you’ll not only pull in more clients but also create experiences they’ll remember forever. Cheers to capturing amazing moments and making each senior’s big year unforgettable!

There are only 4 spots left for my exclusive Senior Photography Retreat in Vegas! If you’re looking for an in-person retreat specifically for senior photographers, join me Feb 3rd-5th, 2025!! Spend 3 days with like-minded photographers to plan out your marketing for the year and capture amazing content in bucket list-worthy locations during our styled senior photoshoots. Education, styled senior photoshoots, accommodations, transportation to photoshoots, and more are included in your registration for this retreat. Don’t miss out on taking your senior photography business to the next level while being surrounded by support from other photographers and myself! There truly is nothing like an in-person retreat to kick off your year in the right way! Hurry because there are only 4 spots left! CLICK HERE for all the details! 

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