Senior Portraits · Twin Cities, MN
From outfits and locations to what happens after the gallery drops — this guide walks you through the whole process so there are no surprises on the day.
Because This Moment Only Happens Once
One minute they're starting kindergarten, and the next you're helping them plan for graduation. I specialize in stress-free, fun, and stunning senior portraits that reflect who your teen actually is — no awkward poses, no forced smiles. This guide walks you through everything you need to know before we shoot.
The Process
Senior portraits are about telling a story. The best way to secure a spot before yearbook deadlines and Minnesota's unpredictable weather get in the way is to lock in your date early. Each season brings something different:
Spring & Summer — Vibrant outdoor shoots with warm golden-hour light.
Fall — Crisp air, colorful leaves, and cozy outfit options that photograph beautifully.
Winter — Bold, moody snow-covered backdrops for a more dramatic look.
Think about what fits your senior's personality. If they love warm, earthy tones, summer or fall is the sweet spot. If they want something more dramatic and editorial, a winter session can deliver.
The right outfit makes a real difference in how your senior feels and looks in the photos. A few guidelines to go in with:
The right setting helps tell your senior's story. I work with you to find a backdrop that fits their style. A few Twin Cities favorites:
Natural, dreamy outdoor shots. Perfect for a relaxed, earthy vibe with great open-sky light.
Urban charm and brick textures for seniors who love a city-editorial look.
Peaceful riverside views for a timeless, classic senior portrait feel.
Have a meaningful spot in mind? I'm flexible and know the metro well — let's talk about it.
A little preparation goes a long way toward your senior feeling their best on the day of the session.
For Girls: A professional makeup artist can enhance natural beauty while keeping the look fresh and camera-ready. Soft curls or a sleek style completes the look.
For Guys: A fresh haircut done at least a week before keeps things polished without that just-cut look.
Play their favorite music during the session to keep the energy natural and relaxed.
Encourage them to relax and have fun — the best smiles come from genuine moments, not forced ones.
Remind them this is their moment. The goal is for them to feel like themselves, just more intentional about it.
Most seniors worry about feeling awkward in front of the camera. That's completely normal — and it's exactly why I guide every step of the session. I use natural poses and prompts designed to bring out real expressions, not stiff or uncomfortable posture.
No "say cheese" moments here. Just authentic images that look and feel like your senior, in a setting that fits them.
Your senior's portraits deserve more than a spot on social media. These are milestone images worth displaying. A few popular options:
Stunning large-format prints for your home that hold up for decades.
A keepsake volume filled with their best shots from the session.
Personalized cards to share their big moment with family and friends.
After the session, I cull and hand-edit your images and deliver them in a private online gallery within 7 to 10 business days. Everything is full resolution, print-ready, and yours — no watermarks, no restrictions on personal use.
Private, password-protected access to view and share all of your images.
Guidance on selecting the right prints and products for your home and family.
Full-resolution, beautifully edited images ready to download, print, and post anywhere.
"My only rule is to show people how beautiful they are."Steve Lunden, Steve Lunden Photography
Limited Spots Available
Spring and fall dates fill up fast. Senior portrait season typically books out by midsummer. Reach out early to lock in your date and start planning.