Senior year is kind of a big deal.

Between prom planning, college tours, and soaking in the “lasts,” your senior photos are a chance to slow down and celebrate who you are right now.

Whether you’re a Class of 2026 senior or a parent helping plan the experience, we know you’ve
got questions – and we’re here with answers.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know before booking your Michigan senior photo session.

Where do senior sessions usually take place?

You’ve got options…and LOTS of them!

We work in some of the most beautiful locations in the Metro Detroit area, from charming
downtown streets to nature-filled parks and peaceful lakesides. You can choose from one of our suggested locations or we can shoot at a location of your choice.

A few of our favorites:

• Downtown Clarkston – artsy alleyways and historic charm
• Bald Mountain State Park – golden fields, woodsy trails, and natural light galore
• Kensington Metropark – peaceful water views and lush greenery
• Downtown Northville – boutique backdrops and classic architecture
• Maybury Park – relaxed trails and beautiful trees
• Independence Oaks – quiet, nature-filled beauty

Not sure what fits your style? We’ll help you pick a location that fit your vibe—urban, rustic,
sporty, glam, laid-back, or anything in between.

What should I wear for senior pictures?

This is your time to shine, so wear what makes you feel like YOU. We recommend 2–3 outfits
that show off different sides of your personality.

Some tips:

• Bring a mix of styles—something casual, something dressy, maybe something sporty or creative.
• Avoid busy patterns or logos. Neutrals, solids, and soft patterns work best.
• Make sure everything fits well and feels comfortable—confidence shows!
• Don’t forget accessories, jackets, and shoes. Layers add variety!

Bonus: You can head over to our Pinterest clothing boards for more inspo!

https://www.pinterest.com/smithandco_photo/senior-girl-clothing
https://www.pinterest.com/smithandco_photo/senior-guy-clothing

How long does a senior session last?

We offer shorter 45 minute minute sessions at pre-chosen locations, or our full 1.5-2 hour
lifestyle sessions at a location of your choice.

We’ll use a mix of posed portraits and natural prompts to bring out genuine smiles, cool
moments, and everything in between.

When should I schedule my senior session?

If you’re Class of 2026, most people schedule in the summer or early fall of 2025 (June–November is
prime time). That gives you time to enjoy and use your images throughout the year—for senior
Sunday posts, yearbook submissions, graduation announcements, and more. Did you miss the
summer/fall time frame? No worries, we schedule several sessions throughout the winter and
spring as well!

Fall sessions book FAST, so get on the calendar early to snag the best dates and light!

Do I need professional hair and makeup?

It’s totally up to you! Professional hair and makeup aren’t required, but pros do know how to make people look photo-ready and how to create styles that last through heat, wind, or humidity.

Hair:

• Choose a style that will hold up in humidity or light wind/rain. For example, if your hair is naturally curly but you straighten it for the session, it may get a little frizzy.
• Use a bit more product than usual…think hairspray, mousse, or smoothing cream—to keep flyaways in check and your style in place during the session.
• If you’re getting a haircut or trim, do it at least a week before your shoot so it has time to settle.

Makeup:

• Even if you prefer a natural look, go just a touch heavier than normal. Cameras tend to wash out features, so a bit more blush, bronzer, or mascara can help bring your look to life in photos.
• Bring along powder or blotting papers to keep shine under control.
• Avoid makeup with SPF for the session—it can cause a white cast in photos.

Whether you go pro or do it yourself, our advice is the same: wear your makeup and hair in a way that
makes you feel confident and like yourself. If you want recommendations for hair/makeup artists
in Southeast Michigan, we’ve got a list ready!

When do I get my photos back?

You’ll receive a peek within a week and your full gallery around 2 weeks. Once your gallery
is ready, you can download images, post on social media, order prints, etc.

What time of day is best for my photo session?

Great question! For best lighting, here is what we recommend:

Nature/scenic locations: A few hours after sunrise or a few hours before sunset.

Urban/city locations: The most flattering light will always be a few hours after sunrise or a few hours before sunset, when the sun is softer and warmer. However, in city locations, we can get beautiful lighting almost any time of day thanks to shade and reflections, but we do try to avoid 11 am to 1 pm, when the sun is at its harshest.

I’m awkward in front of the camera. Can you help?

Absolutely. 99% of seniors say this, and still walk away with amazing photos. You don’t need to know how to pose or smile a certain way. We’ll guide you through everything with prompts, direction, and enough hype to help you feel confident. Most of our sessions feelmore like hanging out than a formal shoot.

Can I bring props (sports gear, instruments, pets, etc)?

Absolutely! Props are a great way to show off your personality and interests, whether that’s your sports gear, musical instrument, skateboard, or even your pet. If you’re bringing an animal, just let me know in advance so we can plan it at the beginning or end of your session, and maybe an extra set of hands to help.

How many photos will I get?

About two weeks after your session, you’ll receive an online gallery of your photos. You can expect 50–75 color photos, plus black-and-white versions, bringing the total to around 100–150 images. From there, you’ll choose which collection works best for you, with Collection Three including all of the digital images if you’d like to own them all.

Ready to Book Your Senior Session?

Let’s create something amazing together—photos that capture your story, your style, and your
spark.

Click here to see more of our work and reach out about pricing and availability

P.S. Moms, if you’re reading this: think of senior photos as a gift to your future self. You’ll look
back and be so glad you captured this chapter.