How Much Do Senior Pictures Cost in Erie Pa?

Are you a soon-to-be high school graduate in Erie, Pennsylvania looking for the perfect senior portraits? If so, you may have been wondering how much do senior pictures cost on average in the area. Well, according to our research, the answer is between $200 and $400. This price range ensures that you get quality photos to commemorate your big day without breaking the bank.

Not sure you’re ready or want to book a Professional Maternity Photographer near me? Check out these reasons Why You NEED Senior Pictures!

How Much Experience Does the Photographer Have

Let’s be real here. You can have your friend on the yearbook staff take your senior pictures for free or next to nothing. And they’re going to use the entry level camera that the school provides to do it. It may seem like a cool, money saving idea. But what you end up with is someone who doens’t have a lot of experience taking photos of you that you need to last a lifetime. A professional senior portrait photographer in Erie Pa is going to have the best quality gear and have a ton of experience posing students just like you. In addition, they’re going to be able to give you advice on things like What to Wear For Senior Pictures and The Best Places to Take Senior Photos. They’ll even have other tips on How to Get Ready for Senior Portraits. Lesson here: Getting a free or cheap session isn’t the best option. Pick a pro for this one. Trust us.

What Does the Photo Session Include?

Next thing to consider when checking out how much do senior pictures cost..is what you’re getting with the session. Some beginners or amatuers are going to be the least expensive. And they’re probably just going to pull out a flash drive and hand you everything they just took. Literally just took. Meaning no editing, no frills. Got zits? Guess what? You still got zits in your pictures. Got messy hair? Don’t care. It’s still there. But a high quality pro is going to spend at least a few days editing and polishing those images before delivering the final product. Some may include digitals, some may give you prints, and some higher end ones may expect you to BUY anything you want extra. You need to ask when looking into pros.

Do You Like Their Work?

Another thing you really need to think about besides how much do senior pictures cost is..do I even like their photos? When you look at their online work are you impressed or do you feel you could do the same thing on your cell phone? I mean, my cell phone is pretty awesome, but it can’t compare to my camera. And a friend snagging pics on their camera or a beginner just doesn’t have the training or experience to pose you in the best way. So, more than cost matters here.

In conclusion,senior photos are an important milestone and should be taken seriously. It’s a great opportunity to capture a moment in time that can be looked back on fondly. There is no need to break the bank when choosing a photographer, as the average cost of senior photos in Erie PA is between $200-$400. Consider your budget, style, and needs before making a decision. And don’t forget to have fun!

Erie Photography Services

Other Services We Offer

Our team is available for your next project.

Erie Photography is a world-renowned production studio that offers a wide variety of photo and video services. We are proud to be the biggest photography studio in our region, and we can help you with your next project. We have been operating in Erie PA  or 12+ years, and we have a lot of experience in Photography & Videography Services We offer a wide variety of services, including photo shooting and video production. Check out our other Services for more information!

Book Erie Photo & Video Services to Capture YOUR Unique Story. 

Erie Photography™

Erie Wedding & Event Services
Wedding Planning | Wedding Disc Jockey | Erie Wedding Photography | Wedding Photo Booth | Wedding Videography
1001 State Street, Erie, PA 16501
814-246-2149 | info@erie-pics.com | www.erie-pics.com

10 Tips on What To Wear For Girls Senior Pictures

Deciding what to wear for Girls Senior Pictures is easy and fun with these fantastic tips!

Hey Ladies!! Getting ready to graduate already? Class of 2022 is in the house! It’s almost the end of your Junior Year AND it’s time to start thinking about your Senior Pictures! Before you know it, you’ll be a Senior! You know what that means?

Senior year is busy! You’ve got school activities, sports, band, choir, community projects, homework (soooooo much homework), college and scholarship applications, AND deciding what you want to do with the rest of your life. (yeah, like that doesn’t bring on a panic attack) BUT, there are some fun perks like Senior Prom, Awards Banquets, extra privileges (like cutting in line at lunch on pizza day) AND Senior Portraits!

Gurl, now is your time to shine, and your Senior Photos are going to help you do just that. Your Senior Photos are going to tell the story of who you are and how you got here (lots of hard work, I bet). Figuring out what to wear for Senior Girls pictures can seem a little overwhelming. But, we’ve got 10 pretty awesome tips to make sure you look your best while capturing who you are.

Don’t be jealous fellas. This blog post might be for just the ladies, but we’ve got some great tips and tricks for you too. What to Wear for Senior Guys Pictures.

Not sure you’re ready or want to book a Professional Maternity Photographer near me? Check out these reasons Why You NEED Senior Pictures!

Check Your Closet First

We all have that killer outfit that makes us look and feel like we can take on the world. Shopping is fun, but if you already own that Girl Power outfit there’s no need to shop. (I mean, you don’t need an excuse to shop, do you?) Bonus is that you know this outfit. It’s like a good friend. You’re comfortable in it and you know there won’t be any weird wardrobe malfunctions. Remember while going through your closet that solid colors photograph better than prints and that neutral color pallets are classy and stand the test of time. I wore a taupe linen shirt at mine 25 years ago and it still looks like it’s in fashion. 

Choose Two to Three Outfits

Picking more than one outfit to wear during your session means you have more looks to go with. Make sure to get your outfits ready ahead of time. Wash, dry, remove wrinkles and check for pet hair or lint a day or two before your senior photos. Gather together all of the accessories you want to use as well and pack it neatly together in a way that won’t cause more wrinkles. Pack a lint roller just in case you’re wearing dark colors.

Did We Mention Accesories?

Accessories can make your Senior Portraits POP!! Throw in anything you would normally wear and add to it a bit for some sparkle! Jewelry, Hats, Scarves, Sunglasses, and cute shoes. REALLY CUTE SHOES. In fact, bring more than one pair of shoes for each outfit just in case. It doesn’t take much time to slip on heels when you are wearing flats. And, man I can’t say enough for a chic hat. Floppy, woven, flowers, ball caps, hats are so awesome.

Dress It Up Girl

While jeans and a cute top might be your everyday outfit and you feel great in it, remember your parents and grandparents want to show you off. Maybe you want to show off as well. That being said, bring a dressier outfit with you! For instance, a cute sun dress is pretty enough for grandma and twirling around in it will make your eyes sparkle with fun! Maxi skirts can make you look and feel elegant. Bring out the flair girl!

What About Those Shoes Again?

Shoes……instantly I get excited. Heels, pumps, ballet flats, and my favorite kicks, my Chuck’s. I will wear those purple Chucks with anything and everything. While your shoes may be super cute, they may NOT be super comfortable. You’ll be walking a lot so bring an extra pair of easy to slip on shoes that pamper your feet while you’re walking from one spot to the next. Oh yeah…if you pick sandals or open toe shoes….remember to pamper your toes so they look picture perfect too.

 Let’s Talk About Props

Okay, so props isn’t exactly a “what to wear for senior girls pictures” item. Or is it? Bringing props to your portrait session means you get to tell more of your story. Play volleyball? Bring your ball and wear your uniform in a few photos. Like to read? Bring your favorite book. If you were a cheerleader bring your pom-poms and cheer outfit. You get the picture…get it? Picture….I’m not even a dad and I have dad jokes….

BACK To Accessories

You may have guessed that I’m a little obsessed about accessories. But that’s only because there’s SO MUCH you can do with them. But seriously, if you’re accessorizing, pick stuff that means something really special to you. For my senior pictures I wore a pearl and Austrian crystal necklace my grandma had given me the Christmas prior. You see, she passed away that next February and wearing that necklace meant I had a piece of her with me. Now, excuse me while I grab a tissue. 

What Season Are We In?

Because your Photos can be taken in any season your outfits should reflect that. It doesn’t make a lot of sense to wear pastels in the fall while you’re munching on an apple and laying in orange and red leaves. And (my north eastern pals), can you imagine trying to wear a sundress in the middle of January. I don’t recommend it, unless you’re hoping for blue skin in your photos. Think Seasonally and plan accordingly. Wanna know more about When to Take Senior Photos?

Think About What You’re Wearing….Under There

If there is the slightest chance your bra strap will show, you need to make arrangements to avoid that. A sturdy strapless bra or a neutral colored tank top if you’re wearing a colored bra under a light colored shirt is smart. What about your underwear? If flashing grandma isn’t on your list of things to do, maybe picking an outfit that doesn’t show off too much is best. Try sitting down in your outfit in front of a mirror at home before settling on it. From experience, we’ve lost a lot of great shots because it was too risky to take sitting down photos when the senior was wearing an outfit that was too short. This is the time to show off your personality, not your undergarments.

Go With Classy, Not Trendy

Let’s go back to that ‘revealing’ outfit. I’ve noticed this year that super short rompers and crop tops are in style. Guess what? They won’t be in style 10 years from now and you’re going to be stuck with photos making you wonder what you were thinking. Classics like denim, white tailored shirts, sundresses, and khakis will stand the test of time. Consider this for your hair style too. You don’t want to look back at your Senior Pictures in horror like many of us who survived the ’80’s hair band era do. Way too much White Rain back then. My eyes are still burning.

Well ladies, that’s all she wrote. Now you should have a good idea on what to wear for girls senior pictures. No guesswork, just great ideas. Here’s one last bonus tip though: If you’re planning on most of your shoots being outside, wear something underneath your outfits that make changing on the fly easy. A tank top and a pair of boy shorts will make it super easy to change between outfits without having to find a restroom. And bring a friend with you for fun. Not only will it make you more comfortable to have that emotional support, a good friend doesn’t mind carrying all your extra outfits. (wink wink)You can find out some more tips on How to Prepare. We know you’re so busy thinking about regular life that you’re not really sitting down mapping out your Senior Portraits and that is just why we wrote all these blogs to help you out! Let’s make getting ready easy and fun so that your session is also easy and fun.

Erie Photography Services

Other Services We Offer

Our team is available for your next project.

Erie Photography is a world-renowned production studio that offers a wide variety of photo and video services. We are proud to be the biggest photography studio in our region, and we can help you with your next project. We have been operating in Erie PA  or 12+ years, and we have a lot of experience in Photography & Videography Services We offer a wide variety of services, including photo shooting and video production. Check out our other Services for more information!

Book Erie Photo & Video Services to Capture YOUR Unique Story. 

Erie Photography™

Erie Wedding & Event Services
Wedding Planning | Wedding Disc Jockey | Erie Wedding Photography | Wedding Photo Booth | Wedding Videography
1001 State Street, Erie, PA 16501
814-246-2149 | info@erie-pics.com | www.erie-pics.com

What to Wear For Guys Senior Pictures

Hey guys! Are you wondering what to wear for Senior Guys Pictures? You didn’t think this was just fun for the ladies did you? Get ready to bring out your inner 9 year old for just a minute and post a sign on the board that reads “No Girls Allowed”. They’ve got their own blog. They don’t need yours. This post is all about Senior Guys and how to look AWESOME in your Senior Pictures. Ladies, don’t get jelly…your blog is right here: What to Wear For Senior Girls

First off, I know you guys aren’t usually thrilled about getting your picture taken. I have 4 boys of my own. Getting any of them to sit still in front of a camera is a feat I feel I deserve an award for. Do they make a parenting award like that? Let’s get real. Senior guys are usually only doing a session because mom said so, grandma guilted and/or your girlfriend begged. We get it. You’re way too busy and too cool to play dress up and smile. But we don’t want this session to feel like a chore for you. We’re about to capture who you are and tell your amazing story. You want people to know your cool story, right? The first place to make this more fun for you is……outfit advice? Yeah, trust me. It is. Having someone help make it easier on what to wear helps out a lot. So, you can focus on just being you.

We like to use Planning Guides that help you understand what to expect at our shoot and give you ideas about why it’s important for you to pick the setting. First, you choose the Best Location to Take Your Senior Photos. Next, you’ll fill out our questionnaire to help us get to know you. Finally, we use what we call a Mood Board that gives us a visual idea of what you want us to capture.

Not sure you’re ready or want to book a Professional Maternity Photographer near me? Check out these reasons Why You NEED Senior Pictures!

Mom’s (Grandma’s) Outfit

The first outfit is usually what mom picks out. Trust me, she’ll have an opinion. If your mom is anything like me this is where she’ll remind you of the long nights pacing the floor with you and how she brought you into this world. Typically, us moms pick out a super clean cut outfit on the dressier side. We like to show you off all dapper. Button up shirts, khakis or slacks, and loafers or dress shoes make us moms happy. Want to score real points for being the best son ever? Throw in a fancy fedora or a tie (they sell zipper ones now). The more successful and handsome you look, the more we can clutch our chest and say: Oh mommy’s heart and soul!! 

The ‘YOU’ Outfit

The second outfit is all about you. What do you feel really comfortable in? Do you kick it in jeans and a t-shirt? Are khakis and polo shirts your go-to? If you’re sporty maybe your jersey or team jacket would be nice. The ‘YOU’ outfit is going to be the one you look back on and smile. It’s the one you give out to friends because it’s how they’ll remember you. Best of all, it’s the one you already own. No boring shopping trip to pick out new clothes. 

Match the Location

Remember I mentioned earlier how we want you to Pick the Location of your Shoot? (That’s a link to our blog about cool locations around Erie County.) Well, it just makes sense to have your outfit match the location. Are you really going to wear a tuxedo on the beach? Would those Nike Sandals and basketball shorts look the best in front of marble pillars at the courthouse? Think about where you’re taking your photos so you don’t stick out like a sore thumb. 

Think About the Season

I’ve got this group of Seniors I shot last year who are all Skiers. They belong to the Ski Club and they work at the Ski Lodge near us. They were all talking about getting their Senior Pictures during the winter on the slopes. It makes sense for them to wear warm sweaters, ski jackets, and long sleeve shirts. Can you imagine a Hawaiian Luau Shirt on the slopes? Matching what to wear for guys Senior Pictures with both locations AND season makes sense.

Don’t Be Afraid of Props

This is where all the Senior Guys I’ve shot have excelled. They love adding something personal and fun into their portrait session. One added a football with his Class year on it because….you guessed it…he played football. Another loved his expensive sunglasses so he brought those along. Add those little touches that make you…you. You’ll feel more comfortable and really capture who you are that way.

NO NEON

Guys. Let’s talk. The ’80’s were…….best left in the ’80’s. I still have PTSD from the leather and lace, white rain hair, neon spandex, and too much Madonna. Neon did NOT age well AND it looks terrible in photos. Neon is a photographer’s nightmare. Not to mention you’re dating yourself by wearing outfits that are trendy for only 10 minutes before they (thankfully) get shoved back into the bottom of your closet under the soccer cleats. Neon is….just don’t. Thanks.

ADIDAS…..Adios

Okay look. I know you paid a lot of part time fast food job money for those Nike pants and that Adidas logo hoodie. But come on. These pictures need to be classy and last forever. Photos in gear with huge logos and company names printed across them just aren’t invitation or newsprint material. And they are super distracting. I strongly suggest you make your Champion Sports statement during school and not during your Senior Photo Session. I had one guy do this once. His photos in that sweatshirt aren’t anywhere near as nice and his mother didn’t order any of them. 

Use Your Interests

If you’re in sports, bring that uniform. If you were in a marching band, bring your instrument. Hey, if you love to drive around in your JEEP on the weekends, wash it up and grab some pics with your JEEP. It’s important that you reflect on YOU.

If you’re still a little nervous about planning your session even after learning about What to Wear For Senior Guys Pictures, don’t worry! You can find out some more tips on How to Prepare. We know you’re so busy thinking about regular life that you’re not really sitting down mapping out your Senior Portraits and that is just why we wrote all these blogs to help you out! Let’s make getting ready easy and fun so that your session is also easy and fun.

Erie Photography Services

Other Services We Offer

Our team is available for your next project.

Erie Photography is a world-renowned production studio that offers a wide variety of photo and video services. We are proud to be the biggest photography studio in our region, and we can help you with your next project. We have been operating in Erie PA  or 12+ years, and we have a lot of experience in Photography & Videography Services We offer a wide variety of services, including photo shooting and video production. Check out our other Services for more information!

Book Erie Photo & Video Services to Capture YOUR Unique Story. 

Erie Photography™

Erie Wedding & Event Services
Wedding Planning | Wedding Disc Jockey | Erie Wedding Photography | Wedding Photo Booth | Wedding Videography
1001 State Street, Erie, PA 16501
814-246-2149 | info@erie-pics.com | www.erie-pics.com

12 Tips- What to Wear For Senior Pictures

Are you wondering what to wear for senior pictures? After all, these photos are a HUGE deal in your life. You want to look and feel your best so that your unique and amazing personality shines through. Figuring out what to wear for both Senior Girls and Senior Guys can be hard. There are SO MANY great outfit ideas! What will you pick? We totally want you to rock your senior photo session by wearing the perfect outfit. That’s why we’re going to give you 12 fantastic tips on what to wear. And, if you want to get more specific for Gal vs Guy we’ve got you covered there too. Ladies you can find out What to Wear for Senior Girls and Guys you can read up on What to Wear for Senior Guys.

Not sure you’re ready or want to book a Professional Maternity Photographer near me? Check out these reasons Why You NEED Senior Pictures!

Tip #1- Match Your Personality

When you’re picking what to wear for senior pictures the first thing to remember is how awesome and unique you are. Your outfit should match your own personality and style. You’ll also want to wear clothing that is comfortable to you.

Tip #2- Dress for the Season

Try to stick to colors that work with the season. If it is winter time, stick to warm clothes so you will be comfortable during your session. The same goes for the hot summer days. Keep in mind if you’re going to be inside or outside too.

Tip #3- Don’t Go With What’s Trendy

Just because something is in style and trendy doesn’t mean it’s going to look great in pictures. You need outfits you can move around in and pose well in. The clothing item I’ve found that causes the most uncomfortable wardrobe malfunctions during sessions is the short romper.

Tip #4- Bring Options

When talking to students about what to wear for senior pictures I always suggest bringing along several outfits. That way you have a choice on what to wear depending on what the location looks like. You don’t want to be stuck blending into the background.

Tip #5- Monochromatic Outfit

I often ask students to bring along at least one monochromatic outfit to a session because those photograph well. However, you want to pick shades of color that add some depth so you don’t look like a crayola crayon escaped the box.

Tip #6- Be Quirky

This tip on what to wear for senior pictures goes back to Tip #1. Be as quirky as you are in real life. This will make your photos memorable and touching. Your parents will really appreciate your personality being captured like this. Trust me.

Tip #7- Be Yourself

Here we are right back to the basics while you’re figuring out what to wear for senior pictures. Be yourself means don’t push yourself to act outgoing if you’re not. The more you let yourself relax and be yourself the more fun you’ll have and the better your pictures will turn out.

Tip #8- Get Fancy

While I recommend wearing clothing that expresses who you are and matches your personality, you’ll also want to bring along at least one outfit that is a bit more ‘special’ for your portraits. Dress up a little and have fun with it.

Tip #9- Solid Colors

I love solid colors for photos. Prints don’t always stand the test of time or photograph well. There are some exceptions, but the safest bet is to wear outfits in solid colors. I learned this from making the mistake to wear unflattering stripes during my own photo session.

Tip #10- Use Props

I definitely encourage you to think about props when you’re planning on what to wear for senior pictures. Bring items that help tell the story of who you are. Hobbies, sports, clubs, anything that tells the story of you. We want to capture your personality.

Tip #11- Add Depth and Flair

It’s not just about what to wear for senior pictures. Think props…outside of the normal realm. We did a great senior shoot last year during a car show. The sleek, shiny, antique cars in the background were amazing.

Tip #12- Wear a Tank Top

Wearing a tank top under your outfits makes it super easy to change in between so you don’t lose any time that could be spent capturing your outstanding smile and personality. Pick a color that won’t bleed through your outfit, however.

What NOT to Wear For Senior Pictures?

I know we’ve talked a lot about what you SHOULD wear for senior pictures. But I’d like to close with a few tips on what NOT to wear. Don’t buy a brand new outfit and wait until the day of your shoot to try it out. That’s where terrible wardrobe malfunctions happen and you leave feeling embarrassed. Don’t wear too much white. It’s hard to photograph and the colors don’t show well. Also, don’t wear neon colors. Those don’t photograph well and don’t stay true to color in photos. In addition, if you don’t love it, don’t wear it. Let me repeat. If you don’t love it, don’t wear it. I promise you, the pictures will show what outfits you loved and which ones you could have left at home.

In conclusion,senior picture day is a once in a lifetime event and should be celebrated. With these tips, you can feel confident and prepared to create memories that will last a lifetime! Don’t forget to have fun with your outfit choices and take the opportunity to express yourself. Remember, senior pictures are an amazing way to capture this moment in time and remember it forever. So don’t be afraid to get creative and have some fun with your wardrobe selections!

Erie Photography Services

Other Services We Offer

Our team is available for your next project.

Erie Photography is a world-renowned production studio that offers a wide variety of photo and video services. We are proud to be the biggest photography studio in our region, and we can help you with your next project. We have been operating in Erie PA  or 12+ years, and we have a lot of experience in Photography & Videography Services We offer a wide variety of services, including photo shooting and video production. Check out our other Services for more information!

Book Erie Photo & Video Services to Capture YOUR Unique Story. 

Erie Photography™

Erie Wedding & Event Services
Wedding Planning | Wedding Disc Jockey | Erie Wedding Photography | Wedding Photo Booth | Wedding Videography
1001 State Street, Erie, PA 16501
814-246-2149 | info@erie-pics.com | www.erie-pics.com

Best Places to Take Senior Pictures

Are you wondering where to take your Senior Pictures in Erie, Pa? We’ve got some pretty awesome ideas to get you started! But first, CONGRATS! Finishing high school is one of life’s biggest (and most rewarding) achievements. It’s what we adults like to call “A MILESTONE” in your life. You’re going to look back on this time in your life with joy. Trust me. I’m..well…I’m old enough to have my own kids that have graduated high school and I still look back on my senior year with a smile. Get ready with our How To Prepare For Your Senior Photo Tip list.

Not sure you’re ready or want to book a Professional Maternity Photographer near me? Check out these reasons Why You NEED Senior Pictures!

Let’s Talk About Senior Pictures

Before we get into where to take your Senior Pictures we’re going to have to talk about WHAT Senior Pictures are. I’ll just be honest with you. My side hustle is working in a local high school. (And yeah, most of the students in this blog are fantastic kids I see everyday.) I noticed most juniors and seniors don’t quite get what a Professional Senior Portrait Session is. Let me clue you in. It’s not the cheesy photo your school makes you get in front of that ugly grey backdrop. I’m shuddering thinking about those. A Senior Photo Session is a private 1-2 hour long session at a location of YOUR choice, wearing clothes YOU picked out that captures who YOU really are.

Of course, your school will offer you the typical picture package where your entire class lines up in a hot auditorium or gym waiting in line forever. You’ll also get those advertisements from expensive portrait studios inviting you to come in and spend hundreds of dollars in their run of the mill scenery. But, you’re not limited to those options. Neither one of these options is really going to bring out YOUR unique personality.

Instead, you should go with a free lance pro who will travel to a location you’ve selected. A freelance photographer will work with you to create the experience you want to capture in your gallery. You’ll feel more comfortable and your photos will look more realistic when you have control over the shoot place. Our team is excited to share some of our favorite locations with you. We hope it helps you to pick the perfect spot. When you’re done looking them over, shoot us an email or call to set up your senior picture session!!

Where Do I Take My Senior Pictures?

And now that we’ve talked about what Senior Portraits are and how they are really different from what your school is offering you, let’s talk about some of the great places we’ve met up to take these photos. We’ll give you the skinny on really popular places and some you may have never thought of.

The Beach/Waterfront

Because we live right on one of the Great Lakes, the Beach/Waterfront is one of the most popular spots to take your senior photos in Erie, Pa. We’re lucky because we have more than one ideal spot for beach style photos. Along the coast in Erie County our beach experience runs from amazing cliffs overlooking the waterfront to long and winding paths on Presque Isle chocked full of wildlife and interesting buildings like Lighthouses. You can even take an urban twist on the waterfront photos by choosing Dobbins Landing or the East Pier, with a view of the Coast Guard Station in the background. The hardest part of taking your beach/waterfront photos will be selecting the spot that you love the most. If you’re feeling very adventurous consider taking your photographer ‘out to sea’ by sailing away into the bay or shooting at the historic Brig Niagara or pretend you’re a pirate aboard the Scallywag!!!

No matter which beach/waterfront location you choose, the vast open waterway makes a perfect backdrop to tell your story. The water represents the amazing & exciting future that lies in front of you. You’ll be embarking on the grandest adventure of your lifetime!

College Campus

If you’re sticking close to home  this would be a great place to take your Senior Pictures in Erie, PA!! Make your senior photos a fun announcement by touring your college campus. Taking pictures in the place you plan on spending most of the next 4 years can really help you out. And it’s a great way to tell your ongoing story to family and friends. Get comfortable with the benches you’ll be studying on. Visit the library (quietly) that you’ll be researching in. If you’re going to be playing sports, maybe visit the field you’ll be bonding with other players on.

The Erie area has at least 6 liberal arts college campuses and many other vocational schools to brag about. Even if you’re not going to attend one of the local colleges the campuses are still pretty amazing for photo opportunities. Mercyhurst Main & North East Campus have towering stone buildings. Gannon is located in bustling downtown Erie. Penn State Behrend has gorgeous nature trails. Edinboro Porreco Center has a hidden apple orchard and big red barns. A local college campus is definitely a must on this list.

Downtown/Urban Area

Where to take Senior Pictures can be fun if you meet up in the downtown or an urban area full of street signs, little shops, and lots of lights. We’ve all spent time wandering through our neighborhoods just hanging out so why not capture your photos in a location you spent a lot of time in? Downtown Erie has railroad underpasses, old staircases, street lights, graffiti, and cute coffee shops you can use as background props. 

Living in North East, PA we take a lot of photos for the local high school seniors. Our town is like many other small towns. We’ve got old brick buildings, store fronts, parks, and lots of hustle and bustle. All of these things help tell the story of who you are. The town you grew up in helped to shape you into the person you are now. You should celebrate your past as you embark on a thrilling new adventure.

So, if you’re from Girard, Harborcreek, Fairview, Wattsburg, or Green Township there are plenty of little places for you to take some fun senior photos in an urban setting. If you’re not sure where to start, think about what you did as a kid that excited you. Maybe visit the corner store and grab a bag of penny candy for your shoot. Your photographer will have some fun ideas as well.

Parks/Frontier Park

Frontier Park in Erie, Pa may be one of the most iconic places to take your Senior Pictures. How many of us visited the park as kids? Did you stroll down the path through the trees or swing like a monkey on the playground? Have you explored the creek with its huge willow trees? This park is full of trails, trees, wide open spaces and park benches. When I was a kid our Science and Gym classes would walk over to Frontier Park to explore during school time. 

Even if you didn’t grow up near Frontier Park, there are so many cute parks to take senior pictures in around Erie, Pa. We meet students from North East High School all the time in Heard Park. No matter where you are, there’s a sweet little park full of benches, swings, slides, and gorgeous green grass just waiting for you. 

When picking a park location make sure there aren’t any entrance fees to get in. No sense in paying extra for the scenery when there are so many free options in Erie County. If you need help deciding where to go, there’s a good chance your photographer can make some suggestions.

Erie Zoo/Museums

You may not have considered The Erie Zoo as an ideal spot for taking your Senior Photos in Erie, Pa, but really is there a more iconic place in Erie that better represents everything you loved as a child? Everyone got excited to take a trip to the zoo and visit with the monkeys, elephants, giraffes, and lions. Every visit was made special with popcorn and a slush puppy from the Concession Stand. You couldn’t wait to ride the train and check out the water buffalo. The children’s zoo was an area of mystery, excitement and thrill. Who didn’t love watching the adorable penguins waddle around with each other? 

The Erie Zoo is full of wonderful little spots to take your photos in if you’re feeling adventurous. The African Safari is by far the best spot in the zoo with its natural wood fences, grass roofs, and plenty of park benches. Hop aboard the train in the children’s zoo area or play on the musical pads like you did when you were 7! Those candid photos will really bring out your personality and be sure to make your parents and grandparents happy while making your friends giggle. Grab a cotton candy or popcorn and walk about the park to your favorite animal.

In conclusion,picking the perfect senior picture location is a breeze with our blog. Whether you’re looking for a natural outdoor setting, or an urban backdrop, our blog provides hundreds of options to choose from. With so many possibilities, the decision will be difficult to make! But no matter what you decide, your photos will be timeless and beautiful. So don’t wait any longer – let our blog help you find the perfect place for your senior pictures.

Erie Photography Services

Other Services We Offer

Our team is available for your next project.

Erie Photography is a world-renowned production studio that offers a wide variety of photo and video services. We are proud to be the biggest photography studio in our region, and we can help you with your next project. We have been operating in Erie PA  or 12+ years, and we have a lot of experience in Photography & Videography Services We offer a wide variety of services, including photo shooting and video production. Check out our other Services for more information!

Book Erie Photo & Video Services to Capture YOUR Unique Story. 

Erie Photography™

Erie Wedding & Event Services
Wedding Planning | Wedding Disc Jockey | Erie Wedding Photography | Wedding Photo Booth | Wedding Videography
1001 State Street, Erie, PA 16501
814-246-2149 | info@erie-pics.com | www.erie-pics.com

How to Get Ready for Senior Portrait Photography

Senior year is an exciting time for any high-schooler. With the prospect of early adulthood in front of you and your childhood behind, you truly feel as though you’re standing on a precipice. But it means so much more than moving on to things beyond.

There are a lot of things that happen senior year, too! In addition to student-made trends like first-last day photos, decorating lockers, and social media comparisons to your younger self, there are also timeless traditions like homecoming and prom.

And then, there’s the high school senior portrait session.

With all that’s going on senior year, you might have thought much about high school senior portrait photography. However, the fact of the matter is, your high school senior portrait will wind up in your yearbook.

Whether you’re a traditional high school lover or a teenage rebel, you’re going to want to have a nice picture to look at years later and remember this time in your life.

But what do you do? How do you plan for your senior year portrait? What are you supposed to wear?

A senior year already presents you with enough questions. The last thing you want to stress out about is your high school portrait. This article will walk you through all you need to know about your senior photoshoot.

Not sure you’re ready or want to book a Professional Maternity Photographer near me? Check out these reasons Why You NEED Senior Pictures!

What to Wear: High School Senior Picture Outfits

Before we get into any clever high school senior portrait photography ideas, you probably have one burning question — what should I wear? We can’t blame you; clothing is one of the most important aspects of portraiture photography, so we’ll cover it first.

The rule of thumb for senior portrait photography is to think of the nicest outfit you’d wear to something you’d consider a “casual” occasion. You don’t want to dress too casually, because you won’t look your best in the picture. You don’t want to dress too formally, or you’ll lose the individuality and energy that makes you, you. 

So think of your favorite outfit to wear on occasions that are “casual”. What would you wear on your first day of school? What would you wear on a casual date to the movies?

Popular options include unique rompers, casual dresses, jeans and a button-down, and henleys. If you have a signature piece of jewelry or wear your hair a certain way, be sure to bring it to the photography section.

Our senior year photography shoots allow you to make up to two outfit changes, so you can bring up to three distinct outfits and see what works best. The location, lighting, and general mood of the day may change the clothing that works best for you.

Be comfortable at your Senior Photography Session by following these Amazing Maternity Picture Outfit Ideas.

Time of Day: When to get Senior Portrait Photography

As you’ve probably guessed by now, most senior photographs are taken outside. Natural lighting is key in making your senior photograph shine. You don’t want that bland, washed-out look of the paint-by-numbers photos that the schools take for you.

Plan your time of day with your photographer based on your location, outfit, and personality. A good photographer should be able to make any lighting beautiful, so don’t worry about picking the “wrong” time for the photographer’s sake. Instead, think about which time of day will make you look best, as lighting can drastically change the way your face looks.

Some of the most distinct times for senior year photographs are the morning before the sun has reached its peak, and the golden hour right before sundown. These times of day are cool and comfortable and provide many interesting options for shadows and lighting.

The way your face looks can also be influenced by your pose.

Posing: High School Senior Portrait Photography Poses

The importance of a good pose goes beyond just figuring out a way to stand or sit. There’s a whole level of psychology that goes into the way you position yourself, and what you look like.

If there’s something to sit on in your location, sitting can be a wonderful option. Sitting is comfortable, and a sense of relaxation is important to getting quality pictures. It also allows you to bend at the waist and lean forward if you want.

If there’s something to lean on, that can be a good option, too. Leaning creates a distinct, angular look that will surely turn heads and make the picture memorable.

You can also get a lot of mileage out of the types of poses that you see models do. If you want, you can go for the over-the-shoulder photo from behind, or the hand on the waist.

It’s also important to remember that your photographer will be well versed in many different sorts of model poses. If you can’t think of those ideas, don’t fret too much.

Miscellaneous Tips

When you’re going to a photography session, remember that you’re going to do a lot of posing in place. Contrary to what you might think, staying in the same position is difficult. You might work up a sweat, so bring along a lot of water.

(The above tip is extra helpful because senior photographs are taken in the spring/summer).

Prepare for the photograph with any makeup-skin cream that you want, and make sure you shave, but don’t go overboard. Getting a haircut for your senior photo, or trying to get a tan, means getting photographed with a look you’re not entirely comfortable with yet.

Find a Good Photographer

All of the advice above won’t help you very much if you don’t find yourself a good photographer. You can have the best pose, outfit, and preparation in the world, but that will all fall apart if the picture is not captured the right way.

Now, a photographer costs money. (How Much Do Senior Photos Cost?) You may be thinking — hey, it’s the 21st century, I have a camera on my phone, everyone has cameras these days. Why can’t I just get my friend/cousin/dad to take the picture? 

You can do that, but it will have a severe effect on the quality of the picture. While, yes, everyone has a camera these days, hiring a professional photographer for your high school senior photos means hiring someone who knows how to frame your writing. They’ll be able to account for the light, the wind, and what things will look like after they’ve been edited.

Think of it as a Hollywood film. They’ve got the best actors in the world of all ages; everyone from Robert De Niro down to Millie Bobby Brown. It’s written by some of the best screenwriters in the world and has a world-famous director.

And who’s the cinematographer? Who’s the guy standing behind the camera to make sure all of the shots come out right? Your Dad. 

Doesn’t sound too appetizing, does it? Make sure you hire a professional to capture this incredible moment of your life the way it deserves to be captured.

Rock Your High School Senior Portrait Photography

Senior year is an exciting time in the life of almost every teen. There are so many things to think about like school, college admissions, prom, and extracurricular activities that the high school senior portrait often falls into the back of people’s minds. This is a shame because a senior photo is a perfect way to capture this time in your life.

Erie Photography Services

Other Services We Offer

Our team is available for your next project.

Erie Photography is a world-renowned production studio that offers a wide variety of photo and video services. We are proud to be the biggest photography studio in our region, and we can help you with your next project. We have been operating in Erie PA  or 12+ years, and we have a lot of experience in Photography & Videography Services We offer a wide variety of services, including photo shooting and video production. Check out our other Services for more information!

Book Erie Photo & Video Services to Capture YOUR Unique Story. 

Erie Photography™

Erie Wedding & Event Services
Wedding Planning | Wedding Disc Jockey | Erie Wedding Photography | Wedding Photo Booth | Wedding Videography
1001 State Street, Erie, PA 16501
814-246-2149 | info@erie-pics.com | www.erie-pics.com