After years of photographing high school seniors in Chicago, I can confidently say this… It is not about the perfect pose or the most Instagrammable location. It is about who they are and making that shine!
Every senior who steps in front of my camera brings something different with them. Their personality, their confidence, their nerves, their excitement, their story. Over time, I have learned that the best senior sessions are not the most curated ones. They are the ones where seniors feel comfortable being themselves.
That is why my Chicago senior sessions are always a collaboration! I listen first and foremost. I want to know what matters to them, what they love, and how they want to remember this season of life. Will I make suggestions on locations, outfits, or timing? Absolutely. But only if they want me to. If a senior comes to me with ideas of their own, I totally want to hear them! This session should feel like them from start to finish.
Outfits that feel like them always photograph best
One of the biggest lessons I have learned over the years is that outfits that feel like the senior always photograph best. When someone feels confident and comfortable in what they are wearing, it shows. The photos feel natural, relaxed, and authentic. Trends come and go, but photos that reflect who you truly were at this moment in life will always matter more. Trust me on that one!
Every session tells a story – treat it like one
Every senior session tells a story, and I treat it that way. This is not just about photos for graduation announcements or an Instagram #seniorsunday post. It’s about celebrating everything that led up to this moment. Late nights studying, early mornings, big wins, hard lessons, friendships, growth, and change. Senior year is a milestone worth honoring.
The right playlist can change the whole session
I have also learned that the energy of a session matters just as much as the visuals. The right playlist can literally change everything. Music helps seniors relax, laugh, and settle into the experience. When the vibe feels right, the photos follow.
Word of mouth from happy moms is gold
And finally, one of the most meaningful lessons has come from parents. Word of mouth from happy moms is everything! When families trust me with their senior’s story and later tell me how meaningful the experience was, that is something I never take lightly.
At the heart of it all, I have learned this:
When seniors feel like themselves, they look like themselves. And that is where the magic happens!
As I plan for my upcoming spring senior sessions in Chicago, I am currently creating a waitlist. Spring dates will release this winter and availability is limited. If you want to be part of a senior experience that is personal, thoughtful, and centered on who your senior truly is, I would love to work with you!
You can get on the waitlist by filling out the contact form on my website or by signing up for my newsletter. I cannot wait to celebrate the Class of 2026 + Class of 2027 and everything they have accomplished!
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!
Chicago High School Senior Portraits | What Years of Photographing High School Seniors Has Taught Me | Chicago Senior Photographer
