Senior Photos Aren’t Just for the Yearbook
They’re Your First Professional Headshots Too!
When most high school seniors think about their senior portrait photos, they’re imagining fun, stylish outfits, golden-hour lighting, and capturing this exciting milestone before they head off into the world. But what if I told you that your senior photos could serve a double purpose—one that future-you will thank you for?
I recently had a graduating senior bring not just her casual and stylish outfits for her senior session, but also a navy blazer to pair with her jeans. Why? Because she wanted to use a few of her senior photos as professional headshots for LinkedIn and future job or internship applications. Let’s give her a round of applause for thinking ahead—because this is genius.
Why You Should Incorporate Professional Headshots Into Your Senior Session
Your senior year is a whirlwind of excitement, change, and preparation for what’s next—whether that’s college, trade school, job applications, or internships. Having a polished, professional photo (or two, or three…) ready to go can set you apart. Here’s why it’s a smart move:
✅ Future-Proof Your Photos: Your senior session isn’t just for mom’s living room wall or the yearbook. You can use these photos for scholarship applications, LinkedIn, resumes, and even college networking events.
✅ First Impressions Matter: When you apply for internships or leadership programs, a selfie just won’t cut it. A professional, high-quality headshot shows you’re serious and prepared.
✅ It’s Already Included! Since you’re already investing in a senior photo session, adding a quick blazer swap for headshots is an easy (and cost-effective) way to get a multi-purpose image.
How to Incorporate a Professional Look Into Your Senior Session
1️⃣ Bring a Blazer or Business-Casual Option – Even if you’re rocking a trendy or casual outfit, throwing a blazer over it instantly levels up your look. Think neutral colors like navy, black, or gray for a timeless feel.
2️⃣ Opt for a Clean, Natural Background – While fun, creative backgrounds are amazing for senior portraits, a simple background works best for headshots.
3️⃣ Keep Hair & Makeup Polished – A natural, professional look will make sure your headshot is versatile for different uses.
4️⃣ Ask for a Few Tight Crops – I always capture waist-up and close-up shots so you have images that fit different formats (hello, LinkedIn profile pic!).
Seattle Seniors – Let’s Future-Proof Your Photos!
If you’re a high school senior in the Seattle or Eastside area (or a parent reading this thinking, “Oh wow, my kid needs this”), let’s plan a session that gives you the best of both worlds—gorgeous senior portraits and a professional headshot to launch you into the future.
Ready to book? Let’s make it happen! DM me, send an inquiry through my website, or comment below if you’re interested. Let’s capture this milestone and set you up for success!
Pro tip for parents: Even if your teen hasn’t thought of this yet, you can gently suggest bringing a blazer or business-casual option. They might roll their eyes now, but they’ll thank you later when they need that polished headshot!