The difference between a senior portrait session and a class picture.

​The difference between a senior portrait session and class pictures primarily lies in the purpose, style, and execution of the photography.
Senior Portrait Session:

1. Purpose: Senior portraits are typically taken to commemorate a student's final year of high school. They are personal and often reflect the student's personality, interests, and achievements.
   
2. Style: These sessions are usually more creative and styled. Students often have the opportunity to choose locations, outfits, and poses that represent who they are. The photographer may also incorporate props (like sports equipment, musical instruments, or hobby-related items).
   
3. Duration: Senior portrait sessions tend to be longer, allowing for multiple outfits and settings, resulting in a wider variety of images.
   
4. Investment: Families often pay for senior portrait sessions, and they may receive edited digital images or printed products as part of the package.
   
5. Outcome: The portraits are typically used for graduation announcements, yearbook spreads, and personal keepsakes.
   

Class Pictures:

1. Purpose: Class pictures usually aim to capture the entire class, celebrating their time together as a grade. They are often taken annually and may include students of all grades.
   
2. Style: These photos tend to be more formal and standardized. Students usually wear coordinated outfits (often school uniforms) and are arranged in a typical group pose.
   
3. Duration: Class picture sessions are generally quick, focusing on capturing the entire group without the personalized elements typical of senior portraits.
   
4. Investment: Class pictures are usually organized by the school, and families often pay a modest fee for prints or packages.
   
5. Outcome: The images are intended for school yearbooks, walls, and school displays, serving more as a record of the class rather than personal mementos.
   

In summary, senior portraits are personalized and styled to reflect individual students, while class pictures are collective and more formal, capturing the whole class in a standardized format.