But Mooooom... When Senior Guys don't *think* they want a Senior Portrait Session - Phoenix Senior Photographer Anjeanette Photography

best senior picture Places near me Phoenix AZ Senior Graduation Portraits by Arizona Photographer Anjeanette Photography Peoria Scottsdale

Senior year is a time of celebration, reflection, and capturing memories that will last a lifetime. For many moms, senior portraits are a cherished tradition, a way to freeze this fleeting moment in time. But what happens when your senior guy just isn’t into it? Many senior boys don’t care about photos, feel awkward in front of the camera, or think it’s not cool to care about senior portraits. This can create tension and frustration, especially for moms who value these keepsakes deeply.

I can honestly can tell you, Senior Guys sessions are my favorites- I love senior ladies but …some of my absolute best sessions have been for guys who didn’t think they wanted them, then turned into James Bond when they put on the suit mom “made” them wear. Most guys actually look forward to and enjoy their senior portraits, but they may not feel chatty about it. They have a lot of fun with them even if they feel uncertain at the beginning. theres this misconception that photo sessions are not hip with dudes- its not true even if they may tell each other that. Guys have just as many outfits, poses, and charm as the girls. I love it when guys bring a car, theirs or a friends. Or a jersey, or sword- seriously those sword session kick butt and are cool as heck. And if it is HIS idea…he will get into it mama!

best senior picture Places near me Phoenix AZ Senior Graduation Portraits by Arizona Photographer Anjeanette Photography Peoria Scottsdale

I have seen this scenario at least a hundred times (no I am not exaggerating): You’ve booked a senior portrait session, chosen the perfect location, and even coordinated outfits. But your son, who could care less about photos, is dragging his feet. He feels awkward, self-conscious, and would rather be anywhere else than posing in front of a camera. He thinks showing enthusiasm for photos is like flexing, and he doesn’t want to come across as trying too hard. Meanwhile, you’re trying to make the best of it, but the session feels strained and uncomfortable.

best senior picture Places near me Phoenix AZ Senior Graduation Portraits by Arizona Photographer Anjeanette Photography Peoria Scottsdale

Now, picture this frustration bubbling over. Your son’s reluctance turns into sullen behavior during the session. He’s uncooperative, his smile is forced, and the whole experience feels more like a chore than a celebration. As a mom, you’re heartbroken because you want these photos to reflect the joy and pride you feel for your son’s accomplishments. The tension between wanting perfect photos and respecting your son’s feelings can be overwhelming.

So, how do we bridge this gap? How do we turn a potentially stressful situation into a positive experience for senior guys and their parents? Here are some solutions that can make senior portrait sessions enjoyable and meaningful for everyone involved.


First and foremost, communication is key. Yeah I know I know, he def does NOT want to talk about it. so take a car ride and talk about it TO him, I promise he really is listening :)

Before the session, have an open conversation with your son about why these photos are important to you. Explain that senior portraits aren’t just about looking good; they’re about celebrating his journey and milestones. Share your feelings and listen to his concerns. Understanding each other’s perspectives can help ease some of the tension.

best senior picture Places near me Phoenix AZ Senior Graduation Portraits by Arizona Photographer Anjeanette Photography Peoria Scottsdale

Next, consider a more relaxed approach to the session. Traditional portrait sessions can feel stiff and formal, which can be uncomfortable for someone who doesn’t like being in front of the camera. Keep the session short and sweet. My mini sessions are perfect for this, offering just enough time to capture a variety of shots without overwhelming your son. These shorter sessions are less intimidating and can be a great way to capture some fantastic shots without the pressure of a full-length session. They are designed to be quick and fun, ensuring that we get great photos without making it feel like a chore.

So, how can I help make this process smoother and more enjoyable for both you and your son? As an experienced photographer, I’ve worked with many seniors who were initially reluctant to have their photos taken. My goal is to make each session comfortable, fun, and tailored to the individual.

I understand that many senior guys feel uncomfortable or awkward in front of the camera. That’s why I take the time to get to know each client, ensuring that they feel relaxed and at ease during the session. We can start with simple poses and gradually move to more dynamic shots as your son becomes more comfortable. My experience has taught me how to bring out genuine smiles and capture the true essence of each senior.

One of the ways I make sessions enjoyable is by allowing your son to take the lead. Let him choose his outfits, even if they’re not what you would have picked. This gives him a sense of control and comfort, making the experience more enjoyable. Provide him with three location options unless he has his own ideas. This way, he feels involved in the planning process and more invested in the outcome. Now he may not have one clue or interest and you will need to pack his outfits, if he doesn’t care go for it! The point is to offer him the opportunity to make them what he wants.

best senior picture Places near me Phoenix AZ Senior Graduation Portraits by Arizona Photographer Anjeanette Photography Peoria

If your son is into art, music, video games, sports or other activities, consider adding action as in my 2 hour Action Session. These sessions focus on capturing him doing what he loves, whether it’s playing basketball, D&D, skateboarding, or even playing an instrument. We go a place he feels good about: arcade, skate park, ball court. It’s a more dynamic and engaging way to showcase his personality and interests. Plus, he’ll feel more at ease in a familiar setting, doing something he enjoys.

During the session, I keep the atmosphere light and fun. Cracking jokes (even if they are super lame mom jokes like mine), playing his favorite music, or even bringing along a friend can help him relax. It’s all about creating a positive environment where he feels comfortable and can be himself. And remember, the goal isn’t to get the perfect posed shot but to capture his true spirit. Sometimes the best photos are the candid ones where he’s genuinely laughing or lost in thought.

Encourage your son to bring items that are meaningful to him. Whether it’s a sports jersey, a musical instrument, or a skateboard, incorporating personal elements can make the session more enjoyable and the photos more authentic. It’s a great way to showcase his unique personality and interests.

Finally, remind your son that these photos aren’t just for him—they’re for you too. Explain that having these memories captured is a gift that will mean the world to you. Sometimes, framing it as a way to make mom happy can be the extra motivation he needs to put in a bit of effort. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about making memories together.

Additionally, consider letting your son bring along someone who makes him feel at ease. Whether it’s dad, an older sibling, or a significant other, having a familiar face nearby can help him feel more relaxed and natural during the session. I have seen dudes light up for a significant other, especially if that person is into photos!! If he feels more comfortable without you being there, it’s okay to wait in the car or at home. This isn’t personally directed at you- often the guys who care about their moms the MOST are the ones most self-concious in front of them! They want to feel cool, and thats hard to do if a mom is there sometimes. Once i had a mom standing over my shoulder asking for his “real smile, like when you were in the 3rd grade and dumped ice cream on your lap!” eek! I know YOU wouldn’t do that mom. We can try starting it with you there, bring a friend of his, and if its not feeling good or getting the results you want, pop out for a water run or something! The goal is to create an environment where he can be himself, and he is growing up and wants portraits that reflect the man he is becoming.

best boy guy senior picture Places near me Phoenix AZ Senior Graduation Portraits by Arizona Photographer Anjeanette Photography

Here’s a step-by-step guide to make the most of your senior portrait session:

  1. Start with a Conversation: Discuss the importance of senior portraits and listen to your son’s concerns. Understanding each other’s perspectives can help ease tension.

  1. Plan Together: Let your son choose his outfits and provide him with a few location options. This gives him a sense of control and makes him feel more comfortable.

  1. Choose the Right Session: Consider a mini session or an action session tailored to his interests. These shorter, more dynamic sessions can make the experience more enjoyable.

  1. Keep It Light: Create a fun and relaxed atmosphere during the session. Play his favorite music, crack jokes, and keep things light-hearted.

  1. DO NOT MAKE HIM SMILE. I will ask, I run through a few poses and I direct prompts like “look at me, no smile, look to the left, chin down- look up at me” and then when the awkward warm up phase is over I do ask seniors to laugh at me- its weird, its dumb, they tell me so- and I encourage them to try it or give me a sift smile. I dont push it or force it. A forced smile is exactly that. Eventually by the end of the session he usually feel comfortable sharing a few smiles, even as a way to get it over with!

  1. Incorporate Personal Elements: Encourage your son to bring items that reflect his personality and interests. This makes the photos more authentic and meaningful.

  1. Bring a Friend or Family Member: Having someone he’s comfortable with can help him relax and enjoy the session. If he prefers, you can wait nearby or at home.

  1. Focus on Candid Shots: Sometimes the best photos are the unplanned, candid moments. Encourage your son to be himself, and capture those genuine smiles and expressions. Cinematic photos where he is not looking into the camera, like in a movie poster.

  1. Consider offering a faster ending IF he can cooperate until we get the needed shots! This wont effect the price, but if its a real dread offer to him that if the photographer gets the shots she needs for your photos we can end the session faster. This makes a mini session even mini-ier for him. and while this still has the same session fee, if he knows he can get ‘out of it’ faster we may get everything we need really fasy and in a happier fashion!

  1. Do It for Mom: Remind your son that these photos are a gift to you as well. Framing it as a way to make mom happy can be a great motivator. He really does love you, even if he def doesn’t love photos.

best boy guy senior picture Places near me Phoenix AZ Senior Graduation Portraits by Arizona Photographer Anjeanette Photography

I often have guys tell me “thats wasn’t as bad as I thought” or “that didn’t suck too bad” and even “that was a little fun actually”. High praise from a guy that was not looking forward to his session. A lot of guys secretly love it and I can tell!

By following these steps, you can turn a potentially stressful experience into a positive and enjoyable one. Senior portraits are about celebrating this important milestone and capturing your son’s true spirit.

Curious about how a senior portrait session can be a fun or at least stress-free experience? Take a look at my portfolio and see examples of sessions that showcase the true personality of each senior. My sessions are all about celebrating you and capturing your unique journey with joy and creativity.

Thank you for letting me be part of your senior year journey. Here’s to celebrating your achievements and capturing the magic of this exciting time in your life. Until next time, let’s keep creating memories that last a lifetime! 📸✨

Anjeanette Photography Phoenix Senior Photographer LLC   best senior picture Places near me Phoenix Arizona take senior pictures high school portraits unique fun Graduation portrait photographer Anjeanette Photography SDOHS Liberty High North Peoria

5 Months to Make the most of Senior Year! | Senior Pictures near me, Phoenix Arizona

5 Months to Make the most of Senior Year! | Senior Pictures near me, Phoenix Arizona

I’m here to help you navigate through this incredible year with a handy timeline and checklist to make sure you don’t miss a thing. Let’s dive into the must-dos for your senior year, from scheduling your senior portraits with me to marking those all-important yearbook dates and planning for special occasions like homecoming and prom.

Read More

Logan Arcadia High School Class of 2024 | Anjeanette Photography Phoenix Senior Photographer

Phoenix AZ Senior Graduation Pictures by Arizona Photographer Anjeanette Photography Peoria Scottsdale

I'm thrilled to share Logan’s senior mini portrait session in Phoenix, AZ. Logan, a senior from Arcadia High School, celebrated his graduation with a quick but unforgettable portrait session at my favorite desert location. It was an afternoon filled with laughter, stunning scenery, and a few surprises that made the session even more magical.

From the moment Logan arrived, I knew this session was going to be a blast. He brought along a sick pair of Ray-Bans that added a cool, edgy vibe to his look. LOVE IT! We started off with some classic poses, capturing Logan’s confident smile against the beautiful desert backdrop. The sun was shining, the light was perfect, and Logan was a natural in front of the camera.

As we moved through the session, we mixed things up with some candid shots. Logan walking through the desert, the sunlight catching his hair just right – it was all so perfect. And let me tell you, those Ray-Bans? Total game-changer. They added a touch of style to every shot, making Logan look like he stepped right out of a fashion magazine.

Then, as if the day couldn’t get any better, a monsoon storm started brewing right at the end of Logan’s session. Now, if you know anything about Arizona, you know how rare and spectacular these storms can be. The sky started to change, with dark clouds rolling in, creating a dramatic backdrop for the final shots. Oh man, I’m so glad we stuck around!

Phoenix AZ Senior Graduation Pictures by Arizona Photographer Anjeanette Photography Peoria Scottsdale

The storm brought a refreshing coolness to the air, and the desert began to transform. The colors of the landscape became more vibrant, and the energy was electric. We took advantage of this incredible setting to capture some stunning sunset portraits. Logan, standing tall with the dramatic sky behind him, was a sight to behold. The way the sunset lit up the clouds and reflected off his Ray-Bans was a whole vibe. This glow is a whole vibe!

One of the best moments was when the rain finally started to fall. We quickly found shelter, but not before getting a few shots of Logan with raindrops adding a unique touch to the photos. His smile, mixed with the dramatic weather, made for some truly unforgettable images. It’s these spontaneous moments that make every session so special.

Logan shared some stories about his high school journey, and it was clear he’s ready to take on the world. His excitement for the future was palpable, and it made capturing his portraits even more meaningful. He’s not just a great subject for photos; he’s a fantastic person with big dreams. Celebrating his accomplishments and capturing his unique spirit was an honor.

As the storm passed and the sun dipped below the horizon, we wrapped up the session. The sky was painted with hues of orange and pink, creating a dreamy end to a perfect day. Logan’s silhouette against this vibrant backdrop was breathtaking. It was the perfect way to close out an incredible shoot.

Logan, your senior portrait session was an absolute joy! Your energy, style, and enthusiasm made every moment special. Keep shining and chasing your dreams. Your future is incredibly bright, and I can’t wait to see all the amazing things you’ll achieve. You’re a star! 🌟

For everyone reading, if you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable senior portrait session, consider a desert location in Phoenix. The natural beauty and dramatic skies provide the perfect setting for capturing those special moments. And remember, it’s all about having fun and being yourself. That’s when the magic happens!

Want an insider’s look at our senior portrait experience? You can check it out here! You’ll see why our sessions are filled with laughter, joy, and capturing the true spirit of who you are.

Thank you, Logan, for letting me be part of your special day. Here’s to celebrating your achievements and capturing the magic of this exciting time in your life. Until next time, keep shining and making memories! 📸✨

Phoenix AZ Senior Graduation Pictures by Arizona Photographer Anjeanette Photography Peoria Scottsdale

Anjeanette Photography

Modern | Artistic  |  Dramatic  |  Creative | Memories


Artistic Natural & Epic dramatic Strobe Light On-Location & Studio Fashion-inspired Senior Portraits
Available to shoot your Portraits in Studio, Nature, or Urban location
Easy, relaxed Senior Portrait experience for Guys
Nationally published and featured
Artistic and fun
Memory involvement easy & simple pricing for Parents

                
PHOTOGRAPHY FOR TEENS & HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS, FAMILIES, & HEADSHOTS

A parent herself, Anjeanette truly believes that memories are for more than a social media newsfeed!

small hands grow, teens go off on their own adventures, photos are the keepsakes that hold our memories after years and loved ones pass.

Anjeanette uses her education as a fine artist and digital painter in her photography to make the most of your moments. She uses both the rich, artistic textures of Natural Light & dramatic, clean lines of Flash Photography - to give the BEST of both worlds to your valuable memories and be ready & experienced for any situation! In business since 2008, she studied photography in high school and college, developing film and educating herself in digital later through research, workshops, classes, & 8 years as a school portrait and sports photographer. 

Your moments are precious, whether silly, serious, candid, or posed, & Anjeanette has the heart and experience to preserve those captures in time for you to treasure!

Anjeanette photographs fleeting life adventures: Senior portraits, professional head shots, families and children. Clients have included brides & grooms, families, musicians & artists, & a hip artisan soap company. She gives back to her community back as a volunteer children & family photographer for schools, band, non-profit organizations, and church. When she’s not awkwardly writing about herself in the third person, she is praying, painting, reading, and exploring the world with her husband and children and her trusty National Parks Passport.

DON’T I HAVE TO USE THE SCHOOL YEARBOOK COMPANY? | Anjeanette Photography Seniors Phoenix Az


No, you do not have to go to *JUST* the school yearbook photographer.

But I think you’ll want to do BOTH!

The schools portrait company is hired to take your yearbook mug-shot, tux or drape, and cap and gown. Unless otherwise stated that is the image they will use in the yearbook regardless. You are so much more than one shot!

Honestly, I love and have taken the traditional tux and drape shot. Its a classic! Secret Confession: I WAS a school yearbook photographer for 8 years- its a great business. One of the school the company I worked with service a high school that had large composites sheets from every year the school had been open- back to the 1920’s! It was amazing- and being a small town there were kiddos going to school with their great grandmothers, grandpa’s, and parents watching over them! Its timeless and sentimental and I loved it!

So get that yearbook pic and enjoy it. I suggest getting the school-approved print portrait package for a formal yearbook shot too. I bought my kid’s yearbook photos and senior photos from the school-approved studio too. I mean let’s face it I am the ideal client…I want all the images of my baby ha! But I also wanted something that REALLY showed off who they are and their personalities too.

..... what about YOU? Your hobbies and passions? Some schools allow independent photographers’ images- like mine- to also appear in your book. Regardless an individualized senior session is an important milestone. All other photographs beyond one formal headshot from the school’s photographer will be fast, cookie-cutter images, and they are completely optional to purchase!


Over and over I’ve been encountering seniors who believe that they must use the school photographer for all of their senior portraits. The school’s yearbook photography companies will attempt to lead you to believe that they are the ONLY photographers and you must go to them since they purchased a contract with your school for your photos, that is not true and you are not obligated to buy anything from them-

I encourage a classic formal portrait in cap & Gown or Tux or Drape- its a milestone shared by your parents and grandparents, an iconic part of the senior experience. But wait- there can be so much MORE!

Felt cute..

Might post my 1991 school yearbook pic later!

AFTER THE YEARBOOK FORMAL ADD THE REAL YOU PERSONALITY AND ARTISTIC MODERN PORTRAIT FROM ANJEANETTE PHOTOGRAPHY!

You are free to make your choice about your senior photographer!


I encourage you to look around at several talented, small, independent photographers such as myself in your area. Make a decision based on the quality of their work. You will get better quality images, more time spent with you and more poses to choose from if you use an independent photographer with years of training and artistic experience.


The yearbook photography companies are usually high-volume studios that profit from getting students in and out quickly with just a few backgrounds- the same ones all of your class will have.  And that’s their business model because it works- AND its inportant to get a photo of every kid. Not everyone will want a special session just for them and sad as that maes me personally hahah I want every kid in the yearbook. Sometimes when they are actually there in the yearbook folks studio they realize its a pretty cool experience and want more poses…You’ll still pay big bucks for your senior pictures at a bigger studio, but what you won’t realize is that you are paying for the business name.  Consider your options. In the world of digital imagery, why would a studio only let you pick a few poses?  Independent photographers will provide you with lots of options and will take the time to individually edit your images.  They will take pride in their work because the images they produce will be a direct reflection of their abilities.

Do you charge more than the school photographer?

It really depends, however, most high-volume yearbook photographers charge more than I do for their sessions and products. Please compare our prices. ;)

Phoenix AZ Senior Graduation Pictures by Arizona Photographer Anjeanette Photography  best senior picture Places near me Phoenix Arizona to take senior  pictures  high school portraits unique fun Graduation portrait photographer Anjeanette Photograph
 

SCROLL DOWN FOR MY WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR SENIOR PICTURES GUIDE MAGAZINE!


The best times to take senior pictures in Arizona | Phoenix Az Graduation Pictures High School Senior Portraits Anjeanette Photography

Senior year is a momentous time in every student's life, and one of the most cherished traditions is capturing this milestone through senior portraits. In Arizona, with our diverse landscapes and unique natural beauty, I make selecting the best time to take senior portraits easy as I have already considered weather, lighting, and different areas that express the character of our state - so that I get you the best results in stunning photographs that truly capture the essence of the senior and this desert wonderland.

Phoenix Az Graduation Pictures High School Senior Portraits Anjeanette Photography

 

Arizona is known for its arid climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters- and its a senior photographers paradise with all the variety and availability to have sessions year round. To avoid the scorching heat of the summer months, it is advisable to plan the session during the fall, winter, or spring seasons, or to have a summer session in studio or a unique indoor location. Autumn offers comfortable temperatures, golden foliage, and vibrant colors, providing a picturesque backdrop for portraits. Winter brings cooler temperatures, which can be a refreshing change, and the possibility of capturing unique shots against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains in northern Arizona. Spring brings the bloom of desert wildflowers, offering a vibrant and colorful setting for senior portraits.

 

Phoenix Az Graduation Pictures High School Senior Portraits Anjeanette Photography

A crucial element to consider is lighting and time of day. Arizona is known for its abundant sunshine, which can create harsh shadows and intense highlights during midday, which is why I avoid middle-of-the-day sessions unless they are indoors.

To achieve softer and more flattering lighting, I highly recommend scheduling the session during the "Golden Hour." The Golden Hour refers to the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset when the light is softer, warmer, and more diffused. During this time, the Phoenix desert landscape is bathed in a beautiful golden glow, creating a magical atmosphere for senior portraits. This enchanting light adds depth, warmth, and a touch of romance to the photographs, enhancing the overall aesthetic.

 

Golden Hour

Warm golden light, high contrast, stunning glow….The best light of the day for outdoor shoots! I start golden hour senior sessions two hours before sunset to maximize the wow! Awesome for highlighting the best skin, colors, and dimension in photos.

 

 Sunset photos

Just as or after Golden Hour when the sun dips behind the mountains surrounding the Phoenix Valley is prime time for striking sunsets. Never can guarantee- but when there is on Arizona has the best!

 

Blue Hour after Sunset- NIGHT SHOTS

Dramatic, bold, colorful- lights! Night shots as unique as you are a great opportunity to shine. This is at the end & included in most action sessions- if we plan it right we can have Golden Hour, Sunset, and Blue Hour night photos in one session!

 

Sunrise/Morning Sessions

Beat the heat! Cooler temps and cooler colour tones- this is the best light in my opinion for Light & Airy style photos. Sunrise sessions start 15 minutes before sunrise so no sleeping in hahah

 

Studio or Indoor Sessions- Anytime!

A studio or interior space can capture YOU and your vision without distraction or crowds. From an epic shoot at a museum or theatre (click to check out unique spots)

to a classic fashion studio (studio portfolio here) we can get all the looks- while enjoying air conditioning!

 

It is important to consider the personal preferences and style of the senior being photographed so I like to collaborate with the senior and their family to understand their preferences, interests, and aspirations can help in choosing the best time and Phoenix or other location for their senior portraits.

Some individuals may have a preference for a specific season, while others may have a particular vision or theme in mind.  This collaboration ensures that the photographs reflect their unique personality and create a lasting memory of this significant milestone. I would love to bring your vision to life and be a part of your senior year with senior photos that express you!

Phoenix Az Graduation Pictures High School Senior Portraits Anjeanette Photography

Maximus Class of 2022 | Phoenix Senior Pictures

This future engineer has a bright future ahead with big plans for next year at the exclusive Webb Institute 🧠!

Maximus built this mechanical keyboard from scratch- photos don't do it justice!! As a tech aficionado myself, it's awesome!


I love this idea Max had for a free fall photo, based on an Anime character. I love incorporating what seniors love into their session, their ideas, and passions- 100% bring YOU to your #seniorportrait session!!

Phoenix Graduation Pictures & High School Senior Portrait sessions

PEORIA AZ PHOTOGRAPHER ANJEANETTE.PHOTOGRAPHY

http://www.anjeanette.photography

TEXT (615) 944-1356 IG

@phoenixseniorphotography

•Artistic | Dramatic | Fun | Unique | Creative •On-Location Natural Light and In-Studio Fashion Senior Portraits •

•Hundreds of Locations to shoot your Senior Pictures in Studio, Nature or City/Urban location

•Easy, relaxed Senior Portrait experience for Guys

•Nationally published and featured Senior Photographer Anjeanette

•Artistic and fun for Seniors with Memory involvement easy simple pricing for Parents

•Peoria, Glendale, and Phoenix Arizona area

Natural & Strobe Light On-Location & Studio Fashion-inspired Senior Portraits Available to shoot your Portraits in Studio, Nature, or Urban location Easy, relaxed Senior Portrait experience for Guys Nationally published and featured Artistic and fun Memory involvement easy & simple pricing for Parents