Top 5 Senior Photo Regrets
(And How to Avoid Them)
what we’ve found
After years of photographing seniors across La Crosse, Onalaska, and the surrounding Driftless area, we’ve seen what works—and what people often wish they’d done differently.
The good news? Most of the common regrets are totally avoidable with a little planning and the right guidance. Here are five simple ways to get the most out of your senior photo experience and make it something you’ll actually enjoy.
1. Waiting Too Long to Book
This is the big one.
By the time most families reach out, the best dates are gone and senior year is already in full swing. Booking early means better weather, more flexibility, and time to enjoy the process instead of rushing through it.
The sweet spot? Spring or summer before senior year starts.
2. Not Including the Whole Family
We’re not suggesting a full-blown family session (unless you want one), but this is a great moment to grab one or two quick shots with the people who’ve been there for the whole ride.
It takes just a few minutes—and those photos often become the most meaningful.
3. Skipping Professional Hair and Makeup
Not because you “need it”—but because it helps you feel confident and camera-ready.
Photos pick up all the little details: shine, flyaways, uneven tones. A professional makeup artist knows how to enhance your features without making you look overdone. Hair styled just enough (even a fresh trim or blowout) makes a difference, too.
We’re happy to recommend trusted pros—or guide you through simple, session-tested prep if you’re doing it yourself. And yes, every image you choose gets a professional retouch so you look polished without losing what makes you, you.
4. Choosing the Wrong Photographer
It’s not just about who takes good photos—it’s about who gets you.
The right photographer helps you feel at ease, walks you through the entire process, and creates an experience that feels easy and fun.
You deserve someone who understands your vision and brings it to life with care and creativity.
5. Only Getting Digital Files
Digital is great—but how often do you actually print the photos on your phone?
Too often, favorite images stay buried in folders or disappear into cloud storage. We hear it all the time: “We meant to print something, but never got around to it.” And suddenly, those once-in-a-lifetime images are forgotten.
That’s why we include a one-on-one design appointment after your session. You’ll get to see your images presented beautifully and choose how you want them to live in your space—whether that’s a handcrafted album, framed wall art, or smaller prints to gift and share.
We make the process simple, relaxed, and completely personal. And yes, digital files are always available—but they’re just one piece of a much more meaningful experience.
