Senior Photos for the Guys Who "Don't Care About Photos"

Dec 11

When moms first reach out about senior portraits, I often hear the same thing: “My son isn’t really into photos.” Sometimes he shrugs and says, “I don’t care.” Other times, he flat-out insists, “I don’t want to do this.”

And honestly? I get it. Not every guy is thrilled about posing in front of a camera. But here’s the good news: senior photos don’t have to feel awkward or forced. In fact, with the right approach, they can actually be fun — and meaningful.

Why Senior Photos Still Matter for Guys

Senior portraits aren’t just for graduation announcements or mom’s wall gallery. They mark a huge milestone. High school is ending, childhood is wrapping up, and adulthood is beginning.

Photos give guys something tangible to look back on:

Confidence. Seeing themselves looking sharp can be a major boost.
Legacy. These portraits become part of the family’s story.
Memories. Years from now, they’ll appreciate having professional images from this season.

Even if they roll their eyes now, they’ll thank you later for making it happen.

Senior serves on tennis court in Kearney MO.

The Common Hesitations

Senior guys often feel resistant to photos for a few reasons:

They don’t like posing. Standing still and smiling feels unnatural.
They’re worried about looking stiff. No one wants to feel awkward.
They don’t see the point. “Why do we even need these?” is a common question.

As a photographer, my job is to address those concerns by keeping sessions relaxed, low-pressure, and true to who they are.

How I Make Senior Sessions Comfortable for Guys

Over the years, I’ve developed an approach that works especially well for guys who claim they “don’t care.”

1. Keep It Casual

Instead of stiff poses, I encourage movement — walking, leaning, tossing a football, even just standing how they normally would. It feels natural, not staged.

2. Focus on What They Love

Sports gear, instruments, cars, sneakers, hobbies — when seniors bring what they’re passionate about, the session feels less like “posing” and more like hanging out.

3. Choose Locations with Personality

Urban backdrops, murals, fields, or even their favorite hangout spot. When the setting feels cool, the senior feels more comfortable in it.

4. Keep It Quick

Sessions don’t have to last forever. We can capture plenty of great shots in a short, focused time frame that respects their attention span.

Senior stands in front of Kauffman Center in Kansas City at sunrise.

A Story from a Reluctant Senior

Last year, I photographed a senior who told me before we even started, “I don’t want to do this.” His mom smiled nervously, hoping I could pull something out of him.

We headed downtown, and I asked about his interests. Turns out, he loved sneakers and basketball. So we spent part of the session shooting in an alley with his favorite high-tops and the rest on the court where he played pickup games with friends.

By the end, he was laughing, tossing the ball in the air, and even suggesting poses. When I delivered the gallery, his mom emailed me: “I can’t believe how much you captured his real personality. He actually said it was fun.”

That transformation is why I love photographing senior guys.

Outfit Ideas for Guys Who “Don’t Care”

Clothes make a big difference in how comfortable a senior feels. For guys who don’t want to overthink it, here are some easy tips:

One casual look. Jeans, sneakers, and a favorite shirt.
One polished look. A button-down or jacket for variety.
Something personal. A jersey, hoodie, or item tied to a hobby.

The goal is to feel like themselves, not like someone else.

Why Parents Will Treasure These Photos

For moms and dads, senior portraits are more than pictures. They’re keepsakes of a fleeting stage. This may be the last time your son lives under your roof full-time, the last season of Friday night lights, or the last summer before he heads off on his own.

Having professional photos ensures you’ll always remember who he was in this moment — even if he rolled his eyes along the way.

Senior sits on skateboard in Mission, KS.

Tips for Parents Bringing Reluctant Seniors

Don’t overhype it. Present it as something simple, not a huge production.
Give him input. Let him help choose outfits, locations, or music.
Make it low-pressure. Remind him it won’t take long — and it won’t be awkward.
Trust the photographer. I know how to draw out genuine smiles and expressions, even from the most resistant seniors.

Why I Love Photographing Senior Guys

There’s something rewarding about photographing seniors who don’t think they’ll enjoy it. By the end of the session, they often surprise themselves — and their parents — with how natural and fun it feels.

I love showing guys that senior photos don’t have to be cheesy or boring. They can reflect who they really are: confident, laid-back, funny, unique.

For the Guys Who “Don’t Care” — These Photos Are for You Too

So if you’re a parent of a reluctant senior, don’t worry. With the right approach, your son can walk away with photos he actually likes — and you’ll have keepsakes you’ll treasure forever.

Senior portraits don’t have to be stiff or staged. They can be relaxed, personal, and yes — even fun.

Book your Kansas City senior session today »