Hey Michigan seniors! Senior year is full of milestones – and it all flies by so fast. Whether you’re a high school senior or the proud parent of one, here’s your ultimate senior year checklist to help you stay ahead of the curve and capture every memory along the way. We’ve also sprinkled in a few photo-related tips so you don’t miss out on the chance to document this exciting time in style!
(P.S. If you would like a downloadable version of this to print off and keep, click HERE)
📚 Academic + Life Prep
- Schedule college visits or job shadowing experiences
- Make a list of potential schools, career paths, or gap year ideas
- Stay on top of application and scholarship deadlines
- Order your cap and gown early (trust us on this one)
- Meet with your school counselor to finalize graduation requirements
💛 Memory Makers
- Plan your senior photo session in advance (more on that below!)
- Write a letter to your future self to read after graduation
- Make a scrapbook, memory jar, or senior-year photo board
- Organize a senior trip with friends or a fun family getaway
- Keep a journal or monthly notes capturing the highs and lows of the year
📸 Senior Photo Checklist
- Choose a season and book your session early (especially if you’re in Detroit or Southeast Michigan, where fall dates go fast!)
- Pick outfits that reflect your personality – think layered looks for versatility
- Plan your props: sports gear, musical instruments, books, pets
- Think about locations: downtown Detroit, nature trails, lakeside parks, or your high school stadium
- Schedule beauty appointments like haircuts, manicures, or makeup trials a few days ahead
Why Photos Matter: Your senior portraits are more than just a tradition – they’re a celebration of who you are right now. They’re for your future self, your family, and your community. And let’s be honest: they make for some pretty epic Instagram posts too 😉.
At Smith & Co, we’re here to help you plan a session that feels like you. Whether you’re bold and edgy or soft and classic, we’ll bring out your unique vibe.
🎓 Ready to create portraits that tell your senior story? Let’s start planning something epic together!
Reach out at hello@smithandco.photo!
