WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A YEARBOOK PHOTO AND SENIOR PORTRAITS

Girl Senior Pictures near the bridge, she is wearing a dress with jean jacket and hat

What exactly is a senior photo? Is it the same as a yearbook photo? NO! There are huge
differences between the type of senior photo session I offer for my clients and the
traditional yearbook photo.

All over the country, senior photos are done differently. In some areas it is super popular
and in other areas it is not. And in our specific area of Northern California, yearbook photos have to be taken by the school appointed company so everyone's pictures look exactly the same. You can't have your photo taken on your own and submit it to the yearbook.


So when we first started and mentioned senior photos, some immediately thought, "I'll just
get the yearbook photo taken." But you are missing out on something special if that is the
only way you capture your senior year. So how is the yearbook photo different from a senior portrait experience? Let me explain.

The Yearbook Photo

Let's start with what a yearbook photo is...a yearbook photo is the photo that all seniors
have to get in order to be in the yearbook. These photos are typically taken in July/ August before the senior year begins. They are done at the high school with a large photo company that sets up a backdrop and artificial light. All seniors have the same photo taken wearing the
same thing. For boys that means a fake tux and for girls that means a black drape. This is
done so that the yearbook photos all look uniform and consistent. I actually think for the
yearbook it does make for a nice look that is very traditional. However, that is where it
should end and the type of shoot that we offer should begin.

According to one senior who just had her yearbook photo taken, "It felt unnatural and was
not creative or personal at all."

The MC Senior Photo Experience

With a senior photo experience, YOUR personality shines! Each session is planned
according to each client. Seniors can wear whatever they want and have more than one
outfit to really showcase their personality. Props can be used and seniors can choose a
few different locations to really showcase what they love. From a country field type setting
to an urban downtown location, each client can pick what works best for them.

The entire process of a senior portrait process is an experience you won't forget. We get
to know one another, we make sure to help you feel comfortable in front of the camera, we
spend time with you via zoom with the style consult, plus tons of session prep tips, and give you guidance throughout the entire process. Unlike the yearbook photo which is a process of getting as many seniors through as possible, a senior session with MC Senior Photo is one that allows me, the professional, to guide you, the senior, through the process and make sure you get the most out of your experience. Consider us as your senior portrait coordinator, we am here to walk you through every step. After all, you are only a high school senior once and I want to make it as memorable as possible.


After the photo shoot, I guide you and your parents through the order process. I will show you
a slideshow of the images and help you pick the products that fit your needs best. From
digital images that allow you to show off your photos in a variety of ways to large prints or
graduation announcements, you are able to choose what works for you. And you can ask
questions and create something special just for you if that is what you want. I am with you
throughout the entire process.


So if you are looking to capture your senior year in a fun, unique way, book a senior photo
session with MC Senior Photo in the San Joaquin County & Greater Sacramento are in Northern California and don't want to just get the yearbook photo. We are currently booking for the Class of 2022 & 2023 and would love to work with you! Book a FREE consultation to get more information, pricing, and available dates. We can't wait to chat!