Senior Portraits

Senior Portrait Photography 

Capture Who They Are in This Defining Moment

There are only a few moments in life when professional photography becomes essential—and senior portraits are one of them. Whether it’s your first child graduating or your last, this milestone deserves to be honored with images that reflect not just how your senior looks, but who they are.

As a professional photographer serving East Lansing, Okemos, Haslett, Dewitt, and the Greater Lansing area, I specialize in senior portrait sessions that are as unique as your child.

Why Senior Portraits Matter

This is more than a school yearbook photo. It’s a celebration of growth, independence, and all the hard work that led to graduation day. While every family has their own style and expectations for senior portraits, one thing is universal: you want to remember your child exactly as they are at this meaningful time.

A Session Built Around Your Senior

Your senior session should reflect your teen’s personality, interests, and passions. Whether they prefer a classic, polished look or something more creative and relaxed, I tailor each session to match their style and comfort level.

From athletes to artists, nature lovers to musicians, we’ll work together to plan a session that tells their story. This is their moment—let’s make it unforgettable.

Personalized Planning and Consultation

Every senior portrait session includes a complimentary consultation, where we’ll map out the entire experience:

• Location selection (urban, nature, school, sports field, etc.)

• Wardrobe and styling ideas

• Props or personal items (musical instruments, sports gear, pets, books, etc.)

• Mood or themes (dramatic, editorial, lighthearted, lifestyle)

This consultation ensures that your session runs smoothly and we capture every image that matters most to you and your family. 

What to Expect

Once the planning is done, your session day is all about creating art and lasting memories. With over 30 years of experience photographing families and young adults, I bring patience, guidance, and creativity to every shoot.

I’ll make sure your senior feels confident and relaxed, helping their natural expressions shine through. We’ll capture a variety of looks—from timeless portraits to fun, personality-filled images you’ll both love.

Let's Create Something Meaningful

If you’re ready to schedule a senior photo session, I’d love to talk more about your vision. Together, we’ll create images that celebrate this exciting milestone—and preserve it for years to come.

Ariniko Artistry is located in East Lansing, Michigan and I offer photographic services to this area as well as The Greater Lansing Region. I am also able to accommodate other locations with additional fees. 

Call: (517) 484-8789
Email: ariniko@ariniko.com
Or send me a message here

Planning Your Senior Portrait Session

Your senior year is full of big moments—and your senior portraits should be one of them. Whether you’re looking for a simple yearbook photo or a custom session spanning multiple seasons, I offer flexible options to help you create a meaningful and personalized photography experience.

Let’s walk through the steps to plan your perfect senior session:

What Kind of Session Do You Need?

Senior photo sessions can be as minimal or expansive as you’d like:

• Yearbook-Only Headshot

• An Hour Session

• A Mini Session (30 minutes)

• A Customized Session of your choice

• Three-Season Package (perfect for capturing your senior’s personality across the year)

If you’re not sure what session is right for you, don’t worry! Give me a call—I’ve worked with seniors from all the major Greater Lansing high schools, and I’m happy to help you navigate your options.

Important: Each school district has specific requirements for yearbook photos—including deadlines and photo style guidelines. Some allow outdoor images, while others require a traditional studio headshot. We’ll make sure your images meet your school’s criteria.

When Do You Need Your Photos?

Your yearbook image deadline is the first scheduling priority. Once we get that image submitted, we can schedule your creative session at your convenience—whether it’s right away or closer to the yearbook due date.

You may also need images for:

• Graduation announcements

• Holiday cards

• Wallet-size photos for family

• Open house or party displays

• Family gifts

• Personal wall art for the home

Some seniors schedule early (as soon as spring before senior year), especially if they book the Three-Season Package. Others wait until winter—it’s totally up to you.

Choosing the Perfect Location

I currently photograph sessions on location throughout the Greater Lansing area but can accommodate any location in Michigan or beyond (arrangements for destination sessions outside the Greater Lansing area will have additional fees). From natural parks and trails to urban downtowns or even your own backyard, we’ll pick a location that suits your senior’s personality and style.

Want suggestions? I’ve got plenty of favorite spots—and I’d love to hear your ideas too!

 

Tips & Hints for a Great Senior Portrait Session

Make the Most of Your Moment

A successful senior photo session is more than just showing up—it’s about preparing in a way that helps you feel confident, relaxed, and authentically you. Here are a few helpful tips to ensure your senior session goes smoothly and results in photos you’ll love forever.

Choose the Right Season for You

Pick a season that complements your style, energy, and favorite colors. Each season in Mid-Michigan has a unique beauty to offer:

• Summer: Vibrant greens, bright floral gardens, and bold water blues—great for sundresses, shorts, or casual, relaxed looks. Locations would include beaches, parks, nature areas, botanical gardens, sunset hill tops. 

• Fall: Warm tones like orange, brown, red, and yellow. Expect deep sunsets, pumpkins, sunflowers, and colorful falling leaves—perfect for cozy sweaters and boots. Some location ideas would be golden fields, pumpkin patches, nature areas with changing leaves, river side parks.

• Winter: Snowy whites, icy blues, and evergreen backdrops. Bright outfits really pop against the neutral scenery—think scarves, coats, and bold accessories. Location ideas would be Christmas tree lots, garden centers, snowy fields, parks with great accessories & decorations. 

• Spring: Soft, diffused light with pink and white fruit tree blossoms, fresh greens, and early blooms. A beautiful alternative to summer if the weather cooperates! Location ideas include fruit tree orchards or gardens, dense green parks, early spring gardens.

Bring Props That Reflect You

Props can add personality and fun to your session. Consider bringing items that show off your interests—like:

• Musical instruments

• Sports gear

• Books or art supplies

• Hobby-related items

• Favorite sunglasses, hats, or a cozy blanket

Pack Multiple Outfit Changes

You’re welcome to bring up to five different outfits. Don’t forget the accessories!

• Include scarves, shoes, hats, jewelry, hairpieces, or even flower crowns.

• Vary your looks—think casual, dressy, fun, and something unexpected!

• Avoid logos or busy patterns unless they’re intentional for your theme.

• In case there isn't a restroom, wear or bring something that makes changing discrete and easy.

Choose a Low-Stress Session Time

Not a morning person? Let’s avoid early shoots! Pick a time of day when you feel your best and aren’t rushed. Your comfort and energy make a big difference in how the photos turn out.

Bring the Right Support

Bring someone who:

• Calms your nerves
• Makes you laugh
• Knows how to encourage your most natural self
• Avoid bringing someone who might distract or add pressure. This session is about you.

Don’t Skip a Meal

Have a light meal before your session to avoid feeling faint or jittery. Plan to celebrate with a post-shoot meal—after all, it’s a big day worth remembering!

With a little preparation, your senior photo session can be one of the highlights of your year. If you need help choosing locations, outfits, or props—or just want to chat about your ideas—I’m happy to guide you every step of the way.

Call: (517) 484-8789
Email: ariniko@ariniko.com
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