Senior Model Team FAQ: What You Need to Know Before You Apply

The Senior Model Team (SMT) is not just a photoshoot! It’s a year-long senior portrait experience designed to capture your senior year in a way that feels intentional, creative, and confidence-building. It goes far beyond a single session, with multiple planned shoots, stylish locations, and opportunities to fill your gallery with variety and personality.

(Note: The images in this post are examples of group shots at group sessions)

Let’s dive into the most frequently asked questions by seniors + their families!

What is the Senior Model Team?

The SMT is a curated group of high school seniors chosen each year to participate in a series of sessions — including one fully customized individual senior portrait session and several group and destination sessions throughout the year. These sessions are designed to add diversity to your gallery and create images that reflect who you are right now.

What are the perks of being on the team?

Being on the Senior Model Team includes:

– A custom individual senior session with professional hair & makeup

– Multiple styled group and destination session opportunities

– A meet & greet event to kick off the year and a cap & gown session to end the year!

– A Senior Model Team t-shirt

– Priority scheduling and thoughtful planning for every shoot

These sessions give you a range of looks, locations, and memories from across the year.

What do you mean by “group” or “destination” sessions?

Throughout the year, SMT sessions take place at a mix of local and destination locations — from classic Southern spots and creative studio themes to optional travel experiences like NYC. While some group images are taken, the focus of each session is always on capturing individual portraits that add variety and depth to your senior gallery. An idea board, location details, and outfit suggestions are always sent in advance so everyone feels prepared, confident, and excited going into each shoot.

**The images shown in this post highlight examples of group photos from SMT sessions. While group shots are part of the experience, the majority of images captured at each session are individual portraits of each senior.**

How much does it cost?

Being on the Senior Model Team is an investment in an elevated senior portrait experience. The core SMT experience begins at a set base investment (as listed on the SMT info page), with optional seasonal and destination sessions available for additional investment after acceptance. Flexible payment plans are available, and the full balance isn’t due until December.

How do I apply and how are members chosen?

Applications open once per year (for the Class of 2027 it opens on February 19) and close on a set date or when spots are filled. Once applications are reviewed, accepted seniors receive details about scheduling, contracts, and preparation guides. Team members are selected based on personality, enthusiasm, and overall fit — not on social media following or popularity.

Do I have to attend every session?

No — while the planned sessions are designed to give you variety and opportunity, attendance is optional. Many girls participate in as many shoots as possible for maximum gallery diversity, but you’re welcome to attend what works for your schedule.

Do I need modeling experience?

Not at all! Every session is guided, supportive, and encouraging. SMT is about confidence, creativity, and expression — not needing a background in modeling.

Is social media required?

Absolutely not. Sharing content is optional. SMT is about enjoying your senior year and creating images you love — not social media obligations.

Where do the sessions take place?

SMT sessions include a mix of local South Georgia locations, along with optional destination opportunities planned throughout the year. Locations are chosen to provide a variety of backdrops and aesthetics so each senior’s gallery feels dynamic and personal. Individual senior sessions may take place at the location of the senior’s choice; locations outside the Valdosta area may require a travel fee.

How does this differ from a standard senior session?

A standard senior session is typically one shoot on one day. SMT includes a signature individual session plus multiple additional shoots, events, and creative opportunities that expand your senior portrait story — all thoughtfully scheduled and professionally managed from start to finish.

What if the Senior Model Team is not the right fit for me?

That’s completely okay. The Senior Model Team is a unique, year-long experience, but it isn’t the only way to work together. I also offer individual senior sessions that are fully customized and just as thoughtfully planned. Whether you choose SMT or a single senior session, my goal is always the same — to create images you love and an experience you feel great about.

You can learn more about individual senior sessions: https://capturedbycolson.com/seniors-only

How do I sign up?

If the Senior Model Team sounds like the right fit, the next step is to review the full SMT details and submit an application. The application process is simple and designed to make sure SMT is the right experience for you. Applications open once per year and spots are limited to keep the experience personal and well-organized.

For answers to more specific questions, please contact Lindsay Colson: lindsay@capturedbycolson.com

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Captured by Colson Photography
Specializing in Weddings and Seniors

Valdosta, Georgia Photographer

p: 229-460-2031

e:  lindsay@capturedbycolson.com