The Difference Between Yearbook and Senior Photos
What exactly is the difference between a yearbook photo and a senior photo? They are definitely not the same! There are huge differences between the type of senior photo session I offer for my clients and the traditional yearbook photo that is required for every high school senior.
Yearbook vs. Senior Session
Depending on where someone lives in the country, senior photos are done differently. In some areas, senior photos are super popular and in other areas they are not. For a lot of high schools including the ones where I live, yearbook photos have to be taken by the school appointed company so everyone’s looks exactly the same. You can’t have your photo taken on your own and submit it to the yearbook.
When I talk about booking a senior photo shoot, some people immediately think, “I’ll just get the yearbook photo taken.” However, let me tell you that you’re missing out on something very special if that is the only way you want to capture your senior year. So how is the yearbook photo different from a senior portrait experience? Let me explain.
The Yearbook Photo
Let’s start with what a yearbook photo is…a yearbook photo is the photo that all seniors have to get in order to be in the yearbook. These photos are typically taken in July before the senior year begins. They are done at the high school or studio in conjunction with a large company that sets up a backdrop and artificial light. All seniors have the same photo taken wearing the same thing.
For boys, this means wearing a fake tux and for girls that means a black drape, usually with some pearls or petite jewelry. This is done so that the yearbook photos all look uniform and consistent. These types of required photos really do look nice and these companies do a nice job. However, that is where it should end and the type of shoot that I offer should begin. According to one senior who had her yearbook photo taken, she said “it felt unnatural and was not creative or personal at all.”
The EBP Senior Experience
With a senior photo experience, YOUR personality shines! Each session is planned according to each of senior clients. Seniors can wear whatever they want and have more than one outfit to really showcase their personality. Props can be used and seniors can choose a few different locations to show what they love. From a country field type setting to an urban downtown location, each client can pick what works best for them.
In addition to the different outfits and the different locations, my senior girls can choose to have professional hair and make up done which allows each client to feel really special and look their absolute best for their shoot. I work with the several local hair and make-up artists in the Chattanooga and Cleveland area. They know exactly the correct amount to apply to show up on camera but still keep each client looking like themselves.
The entire process of a senior portrait process is an experience you won’t forget! We get to know one another, I make sure to help you feel comfortable in front of the camera, I spend time with you at hair and makeup and give you guidance throughout the entire process. Unlike the yearbook photo which is a process of getting as many seniors through as possible, a senior session with EBP is one that allows me, the professional, to guide you, the senior, through the process and make sure you get the most out of your experience. After all, you are only a high school senior once and I want to make it as memorable as possible.
After the photo shoot, I guide you and your parents through the order process. I send a gallery of all of the best images from the session and offer special products from which to choose. This includes canvases, albums, or graduation announcements. You are able to select which items work best for you and your family. My clients can ask me any questions, and I can create something special just for you. I am with you throughout the entire process!
There is definitely a difference between yearbook and senior photos, so let’s make sure that you can plan for an experience that is tailored just for you!
So if you are looking to capture your senior year in a fun, unique way, book a senior photo session with EBP and don’t just get the yearbook photo like everyone else! I am currently booking for the Class of 2024 and I would love to work with you! Contact me by email at erinbancroftphoto@gmail.com or by visiting my contact page to fill out my form.
