This has been on my mind lately, and I think it’s time we talk about it – REAL senior photos that actually look like you.
I can’t tell you how many times a senior has nervously told me, “I’ve seen my friend’s photos and… I barely recognized her.” Yep, you know the ones – skin that looks airbrushed to plastic, eye color that somehow changed completely, or a face that doesn’t even resemble the person you see in the halls every day.
Let’s clear this up, Class of 2026 – that’s just not the vibe around here. My goal as your Chicago senior photographer isn’t to change you. It’s to celebrate you! My editing style is all about creating polished, beautiful images that still feel authentically you. Think of it like this:
I want your bestie to see your senior photos and say, “OMG that’s SO you!” Not “Wait… Is that you?”
Here’s what I do edit:
✔️ That random pimple that popped up the morning of your shoot (because of course it did)
✔️ Flyaways or minor distractions that take the focus off you
✔️ Lighting tweaks that help show off your gorgeous features
But here’s what I don’t edit away:
✖️ Your freckles – those are staying
✖️ Your dimples – 100% keeping them
✖️ Your natural smile – the one that lights up a room? That’s what we’re here to capture
Your senior photos should feel like the best version of the real you – not a smoothed-over, overly filtered version that looks like everyone else on Instagram. Because guess what? There’s no one else like you. And that’s exactly what makes these photos so special.
So if you’re looking for Chicago senior photos that celebrate everything that makes you uniquely YOU – I’d love to chat.
Head over to my contact form to start planning your senior session!
Wanna learn more about the senior photography experience at Shalimar B. Photography? Get the scoop on Chicago senior photos here & see what’s happening behind the scenes over on Instagram!
How Editing Impacts Your Senior Photo Experience | Chicago Senior Photographer | Chicago Senior Portraits
