the process
Step by step
Within 2-3 weeks of your session we will have your art design meeting. This usually takes place over Zoom, but can be arranged to be in person. During this meeting we will view your photos for the first time, choose your favorites, and order artwork for your home.
designing your art
Senior sessions take place two hours before sunset. We will photograph until the sun goes down, or you’re hungry…whichever comes first! I like to keep my senior sessions very casual, so there will be a lot of talking, laughing, and walking (depending on location). Trust me, by the second outfit you will be having a blast!
yOUR sESSION
Once you have booked your session we will schedule a phone call, or online meeting to plan your session. We will go over outfits, what you need to have on hand for your session, hair and makeup ideas, and get to know each other better.
Planning
Senior Session Fee is $500
Please fill out our contact form to schedule a phone call to learn more information on booking your session.
portfolio
the SENIOR gallery
artwork
wall art
Senior year is a big deal! Soon, a lot of changes will happen. Artwork is a way to freeze this moment in time, and to reminisce for years to come. Senior albums are a popular piece of art to tell your full senior year story. During your art design meeting we will go over your photos and decide which pieces of art will work best for you. All pieces of artwork are professionally designed, inspected, and created to be sure you have the best of the best proudly on display in your home–exactly what your senior deserves.
albums
prints
"From the initial consultation to the final delivery, Shelly demonstrated exceptional professionalism and artistic vision. The quality of her work is simply outstanding! She has a friendly and approachable demeanor that put us at ease throughout the session. She was able to capture the essence of my daughter with her beautiful, natural photos. Shelly's unique style and ability to find the perfect lighting resulted in photos that we will cherish for a lifetime."
Taylor
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Frequently asked questions
Do you provide horses for photoshoots?
Do you travel outside of alabama for sessions?
how much does a senior session cost?
what should i wear?
Can I include my pet in my senior session?
When should I schedule my senior session?
What if I feel awkward in front of the camera?
You’re not alone — most seniors feel this way at first! I guide you through natural posing and movement so you feel comfortable and confident. Sessions are relaxed and often feel more like hanging out than being photographed.
Frequently asked questions
Do you provide horses for photoshoots?
Do you travel outside of alabama for sessions?
how much does a senior session cost?
what should i wear?
Can I include my pet in my senior session?
When should I schedule my senior session?
What if I feel awkward in front of the camera?
There’s no right or wrong time for senior photos. As long as your session happens between the summer before senior year and the summer after graduation, you’re in a great window.
Most seniors choose their date based on the season and style they prefer — sweaters in the fall or sundresses in the summer. It’s also helpful to plan around a time when your schedule is more flexible, like before sports seasons or heavy testing periods.
If you’re unsure, I’m happy to help you choose a time that fits both your style and schedule.
Frequently asked questions
Do you provide horses for photoshoots?
Do you travel outside of alabama for sessions?
how much does a senior session cost?
what should i wear?
Can I include my pet in my senior session?
When should I schedule my senior session?
What if I feel awkward in front of the camera?
Absolutely! Pets are welcome as long as they are well-behaved and comfortable in new environments. Many seniors choose to include dogs, horses, or other meaningful companions to make their session even more personal.
Frequently asked questions
Do you provide horses for photoshoots?
Do you travel outside of alabama for sessions?
how much does a senior session cost?
what should i wear?
Can I include my pet in my senior session?
When should I schedule my senior session?
What if I feel awkward in front of the camera?
I provide styling guidance to help you choose outfits that photograph beautifully and reflect your personality. Whether you prefer a polished look or something more relaxed, we’ll plan a wardrobe that complements both you and your personality.
Frequently asked questions
Do you provide horses for photoshoots?
Do you travel outside of alabama for sessions?
how much does a senior session cost?
what should i wear?
Can I include my pet in my senior session?
When should I schedule my senior session?
What if I feel awkward in front of the camera?
Senior sessions begin at $500, which includes up to two hours of photography, a $200 photo credit, and a fully guided planning experience. Most families invest between $1,200–$2,500 on their finished photos and/or artwork, though there is no minimum purchase required.
Frequently asked questions
Do you provide horses for photoshoots?
Do you travel outside of alabama for sessions?
how much does a senior session cost?
what should i wear?
Can I include my pet in my senior session?
When should I schedule my senior session?
What if I feel awkward in front of the camera?
I do not provide horses for sessions. All horse and rider portraits take place with a horse you own, lease, or have permission to work with. This ensures the safety and comfort of both you and the horse.
Frequently asked questions
Do you provide horses for photoshoots?
Do you travel outside of alabama for sessions?
how much does a senior session cost?
what should i wear?
Can I include my pet in my senior session?
When should I schedule my senior session?
What if I feel awkward in front of the camera?
Yes. While I’m based in Alabama, I regularly travel throughout the Southeast for horse and rider portrait sessions. If you’re located in Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, or nearby states, reach out to discuss travel availability.
@paintedoakphotos
