6 Senior Photo Shoot Mistakes to Avoid in 2023

This article was originally framed as a 2023 senior-photo guide. The title is retained, but the planning principles below are updated to avoid rigid rules that do not fit every senior or every session.

1. Waiting Until the Last Minute to Choose a Location

Location affects the look, access, weather plan, wardrobe, and timing of a senior session. Kelly Tareski Photography has a five-acre property in Nine Mile Falls near Spokane with indoor and outdoor options. If you want another location, discuss it early enough to confirm access and current conditions.

2. Ignoring Real Deadlines

Yearbook, graduation announcement, school publication, travel, sports, and activity schedules can all affect timing. Work backward from any firm deadline so there is enough time for the session, image selection, editing, and products you may want.

3. Treating One Lighting Condition as the Only Good Choice

Natural light, studio light, flash, open shade, overcast conditions, and direct sun can all be used intentionally. The photographer should choose the lighting approach for the scene and desired look rather than relying on one universal formula.

4. Using Props or Wardrobe That Do Not Fit Your Goal

Bold clothing, costumes, uniforms, hobbies, and props are not automatically mistakes. Use them when they are meaningful and fit the style of portrait you want. Skip them when they distract from the purpose of the session.

5. Thinking You Need to Arrive With Poses Memorized

You can bring inspiration, but you do not need to manage posing yourself. I provide direction for body position, hands, expression, and movement throughout the session and adjust it for the senior, wardrobe, setting, and camera angle.

6. Staying Silent About Preferences or Concerns

Tell your photographer about the photographs you want, the ones you do not want, comfort or accessibility needs, deadlines, wardrobe questions, and anything else that affects the session. Clear communication makes the plan more specific and reduces assumptions.

That's a Wrap!

The most useful senior-photo preparation is practical: choose the setting and wardrobe intentionally, respect real deadlines, communicate your preferences, and let the photographer handle the technical decisions during the session. Contact Kelly Tareski Photography if you want to plan a senior portrait session in the Spokane area.