Yearbook Photos vs Senior Portraits: What You Should Know

If you’re thinking that booking a senior portrait session will be the same as having yearbook photos taken, think again. 

There are some key differences to be aware of before you decide a senior photo session is not for you.

Difference 1: The Choices

With yearbook photos, your photographer takes a shot or two and that’s it. With senior portraits, however, you have a lot more options. You get the chance to choose one, or even two outfits, props, and more. Plus, you will have a lot more photos to choose from at the end of your session.

Difference 2: The Location

 Taking yearbook photos usually means you’re in a studio or a photographer comes to your school with a background. When you book a senior photo session, you actually get to choose a location that’s more meaningful and fits in with your chosen theme. 

Difference 3: The Duration

The next difference is the length of the session. A senior portrait session takes anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, giving you the chance to try different outfits, poses, and locations. Yearbook photos usually only take several minutes.

Difference 4: The Poses

To keep yearbook photos simple, students are all asked to pose the same way – this also gives the yearbook a standard format. With a senior photoshoot, you have a lot more freedom and can have more fun in terms of how you pose. 

Difference 5: The Experience

A senior photo session is meant to be memorable. This is your chance to let your personality shine through and to showcase your interests and passion. You also get to choose a photographer you feel comfortable with, which can make all the difference to your experience.

Difference 6: The End Result

A yearbook has everyone’s photos in one place – it’s generally also printed. When you schedule a senior portrait session, you can display and share your photos in any way you want to.

Ready to book a senior photoshoot yet?