Senior portraits have received an expensive upgrade in the 21st century. It seems as though the portrait craze is only growing for the photography business. The most common senior portrait taken for the yearbook has been replaced by elaborate photo ideas involving numerous outfit changes, scenic backgrounds and hundreds of dollars being spent. These senior pictures provide students with memorabilia that can be viewed years down the road and will be a reminder of their high school experience. Although these pictures seem to be a good token of memory, they usually cost hundreds of dollars just for the photographer and picture packages. Despite the cost, seniors are still willing to spend the money and the photography business can expect growth in the senior portrait market.
“I took my senior pictures at County Line Orchard in October with my cousin’s friend, Alivia Brybak of Alivia Brybak Photography. I was able to choose two outfits with my package, one of which was red skinny jeans, a white v-neck and combat boots. I also chose a sundress to wear,” said senior Shelby Trylong.
Many people may argue that senior portraits are not worth it, but this is not stopping the photography business with their swarm of senior clientele. Janet Lynn Photography located in Crown Point, Indiana, starts their senior portrait packages at $750, which includes the sit-in fee and photography costs.
“My senior portraits were a bit expensive. The package I chose came out to be $375. Although the prices were a bit expensive, I love the way my senior pictures came out and I will definitely look at them years down the road and remember my senior year. I am also using them for my graduation party invites,” Trylong said.
Bishop Noll seniors have the option to purchase portraits from Prestige Portraits every year. The basic package that includes one pose averages out to $199. The perfect packages which includes an unlimited amount of poses where students and parents can browse the website in search of their “perfect picture package, costs $559.
According to a Chicago Tribune article from December 25th, photographer Charlie Mosher, owner of Senior Portraits International, believes it is important to stay ahead of the trends no matter what the price may be.
“If you take a straight photo, you won’t compete with what everyone else can do. It is crucial to stay ahead of the trends. High school seniors want something hip. Your child will only graduate once. That’s a big event they want memorabilia for,” said Mosher.