One thing that sets my photography studio apart from many other professional photographers in Phoenix is that I love to get to know people before their photography session. Before I photograph anyone, I invite them to visit me in my studio in Uptown Phoenix so we can meet, chat and talk more about what they are looking for in their photos.
I truly believe that this is a big part of the success of senior photos! This is an amazing point in a high school senior’s life. It’s the crossroads from young adult to adult, and there is so much excitement, joy, and yes…even a little bit of fear mixed in there for the senior.
Meeting in person means that you get to see the studio in person before your session and I can answer any questions you have. I believe these portraits need to show not only what the senior looks like now but also a glimpse into what they will become.
For the parents, this milestone is often bittersweet. As a mom of teenagers myself, I understand that this is a rite of passage as much for you as it is for them. You’ll never more keenly understand the saying “the days were long, but the years were short,” as when you prepare for your “baby” to graduate from high school.
If you’re like most people, you haven’t been professionally photographed many times in your life. Sure, you’ve done the school photos, the church directory photos, and maybe you’ve had family photos done by a professional portrait photographer throughout the years. But even then ( unless you have done modeling), being professionally photographed isn’t something we do every day!
Sandi Shipley Photography is a boutique studio experience for seniors (and their parents) that they will never forget. When you walk into my studio, it’s my name on the door, and I’m the person you will meet and who will photograph you. I limit the number of sessions per season; I believe in quality, not quantity.
I Want To Help You Decide How Your Photos Should Look and Feel.
Some high school seniors have definite ideas of how they want their photos to look and feel, and some don’t have any idea. I tell you that I love both kinds! When you come into the studio, you’ll have a chance to look at many different photos of kids from high schools around Phoenix (some you might recognize!) to see what’s trending in photos and locations to do your photos in.
You’ll also be able to get some great ideas on how to display your photos; my most popular items are albums and wall art. You’ll get to hold the albums in your hand and see what a canvas looks like on a wall. Being able to spend time talking through this can be really helpful for seniors and parents. It allows us all to get on the same page before any photos are taken and make a big difference in how much you will love your photos when you see them when you come back for your reveal.
It’s true; what looks great on a hanger doesn’t always photograph well. Your favorite shirt may have elements to it that distract from your face when it comes to a portrait. Or, you may want to take this experience to try new clothing that you don’t have in your closet.
Meeting in person before the sessions allows us to talk through clothing choices; you can even bring in what you are thinking of wearing. Some clothing is just more flattering than others in photos, and I have an entire Client Closet with beautiful clothing, shoes, and accessories that I can show you.
This allows you to try on clothes to be in the photographs without the extra expense of adding to your wardrobe!
Don’t settle for a studio where you are just another appointment. Everyone who walks through my doors is treated like a friend! It matters to me that I am creating photos that are important to parents and seniors alike. Make an appointment, and let’s get to know each other!