Biggest grad photo regrets (According to the parents)
Soon-to-be grad parents!
Choosing a senior portrait photographer is a major milestone, but because it's usually a once- or twice-in-a-lifetime experience, it’s incredibly easy to make some common errors. Here are the biggest regrets we hear from other parents:
1. We fell for the 'shoot-n-burn' trap
Shoot-n-burn is when you pay a flat, one-size-fits-all fee, then receive hundreds of unedited images in an online gallery or on a USB. When shopping for price before value, many parents see a session fee of $300, $150, or $75 and think, "Perfect, that fits our budget!" only to find out later how little value they got.
REGRET: "I suppose we got what we paid for."
TIP: There is a lot that goes into evaluating the experience and credibility of a senior portrait artist, but one super simple thing you can try to get an initial gauge is easy math like this: [Session fee] divided by [number of digital files] = [an indication of value]. Example: $300 divided by 300 images = $1.00 per image. If you are confident with a $1/per image experience, have at it. If not, trust your gut!
2. We chose the wrong style
It is normal for parents to want something that feels familiar to them, while grads want looks that are aesthetic to teens. Choosing only one style means someone isn't happy.
REGRET: "If only we had chosen a photographer who could balance the desires of both."
TIP: Read article >> “Uh oh, are you and your soon-to-be-grad disagreeing about the grad portrait plan?”
3. We weren't prepared for the yearbook deadline
It's not fair for parents, and many don't know. Most yearbook deadlines are in October, just weeks after school starts.
REGRET: "We waited until September, and all the best photographers were gone."
4. Went with the one that all the other friends were using
It kinda makes sense. I mean, if all the other families are going with that same photographer, then they must be good, right? "Popular choice" does not mean right choice because it doesn't account for goals, experiences, or results that matter to you. Did those other grad parents make a decision based on budget, last-minute scheduling, or what everyone else was doing? We can't know that.
REGRET: “We should've met with a few photographers to vet their posing, lighting, and personal connection skills."
TIP: Not all photographers are created equal. Let’s just say it how it is… Sometimes students are drawn to what the crowd is doing, but life experience helps us discern the difference between good and great. This is why meeting with a few photographers can be the single most important piece in determining the outcome. When you have something to compare, you will make the right decision.
5. We didn't consider the print quality or image products
In a digital-first world, many parents assume they want JPEGs. On the front end of the process, it seems right, but afterwards, they are left feeling like there is nothing to show for the memories, milestones, and investment. Even worse, they are left to do the hard work of designing and printing all on their own.
REGRET: “We went with the digital-only photographer."
TIP: Give careful consideration to how much of the load you want to carry. If you have lots of time on your hands, have at it with the back-end work of editing, designing, and printing. If you lead a busy life and prioritizing time to be present and engaged with your family is important, maybe the photographer carrying the load is a better choice.
THREE STEPS to avoid these common regrets…
These stories are real, but they don't have to be yours. Here are three simple steps to avoid these common regrets:
Discover Your Vibe: Evaluate the work of several photographers. Which styles are you drawn to? Who makes the teens look and feel authentic? Which subjects seem to have personalities that connect with you through the image?
Interview Your Top Three: Meet with your favorite photographers. Can they deliver on what you want? Do they truly "get" your senior's personality and understand your expectations? Do the products offered match your end goals?
Lock In the Legacy: Choose the professional who knows how to handle everything with ease, from yearbook to planning, coaching, and creating amazing products you will love and treasure. Your job as a parent is to be present in their senior year. You don't need extra work and stress in your life. Secure your date early so you can focus on enjoying the experience you deserve in this special season.