SENIOR YEARBOOK PHOTO TIPS: CAPTURING A TIMELESS PORTRAIT OF YOU

Senior year is full of unforgettable milestones—and your yearbook photo is one of the most iconic. It’s a lasting image that will live on in bookshelves and family albums for years to come. That’s why it should be a true reflection of who you are.

Here’s how to get the most out of your senior yearbook photo session:

1. Understand the Yearbook Requirements

Before your shoot, make sure you’re clear on what your school expects:

  • Headshot Focus: Most schools want a classic head-and-shoulders portrait, with your face taking up about half of the image.

  • Vertical Orientation: Photos must typically be taken in a vertical layout to fit the yearbook format correctly.

  • High-Resolution Image: Make sure you deliver a high-res file suitable for publishing.

2. Dress Smart, Feel Confident

  • Stick to Solid Colors: Bright prints and busy patterns can be distracting. Choose solid tones or soft patterns that highlight your features.

  • Keep It Simple: Avoid logos, large graphics, and neon shades—they pull attention away from your face.

  • Mind the Neckline: Choose shirts with open or natural necklines—high collars or bulky tops can look awkward in tightly cropped photos.

  • Dress for Confidence: When you feel good in what you’re wearing, it shows. Pick something that feels like you.

3. A Little Prep Goes A Long Way

  • Stay Hydrated and Rested: Drink plenty of water and get a good night’s sleep beforehand. Your skin and eyes will thank you.

  • Grooming Matters: Whether it’s styling your hair, shaving, or shaping your brows, take time to feel polished and camera-ready.

4. Trust Your Photographer

  • Share Your Ideas: Have a vision for your photo? We’d love to hear it—your input helps us create something that feels personal and authentic.

  • Stay Open-Minded: Some of the best shots come from unexpected moments. Be flexible and enjoy the process.

  • Feeling Nervous? That’s totally normal! We’ll guide you through every step so you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera.

Your senior yearbook photo is more than a school requirement—it’s a snapshot of who you are right now. Let’s make it memorable.

Just need a few great shots? Our Yearbook Portrait Session is perfect for you!

$250 Session Includes:

  • 30-minute session at the JJSHOTME property

  • One fully retouched portrait (yearbook-ready)

  • One accompanying 8x10 print

  • Option to purchase more portraits and prints

JEAN JOHNSON PORTRAITS

LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHER | PERSONAL ARTIST | FAMILY HISTORIAN

Instagram: @jjshotme

Facebook: Jean Johnson Portraits

Serving as family and senior portrait photographers for families in Sammamish, Issaquah, Snoqualmie, Redmond, Bellevue, Kirkland, Mercer Island, North Bend, Carnation, Woodinville, and the greater Seattle area.