Senior (student) portraits captured by
Nilas Photography. Portland, Oregon.
I'm here to represent and preserve today's version of you
There are a lot of ways to conduct a photo session, but what makes it count? So, what works best for you? We'll determine the process that best fits you once we're in contact, but my goal is to make our set comfortable and your images authentic.
Our photo set can be traditional, candid, or as creative as you'd like it to be, but my hopes are to make these images something to be cherished for a long time by students and guardians alike.
Get started
Standard Rates for Student Portraits
Simple Session $300 3 final retouched images Select from proofs or trust our judgement Typically 30 minutes to 1 hour We will connect to find an ideal outdoor or indoor location Complimentary studio optional Minor wardrobe and theme variation
Full Session $400 7 final retouched images Select from proofs or trust our judgement Typically about 1 hour Multiple backgrounds allowed Complimentary studio optional Minor to moderate wardrobe and theme variation Popular option for students
Presentation Session $600 15-25 final retouched images including group variations and candid's Additional images are only $10 Select from proofs or trust our judgement Typically 1-2 hours 2 locations allowed Complimentary studio optional Helpful for multiple poses, outfits, candid's, or adding creative alternatives (double exposure, shutter drag, various lighting, etc.) Minor to moderate styling, wardrobe, and theme variation Most Popular option for students
Portfolio Session $1000 The overkill portrait option. An all-out experience. Image count determined by needs Treated like multiple presentation sessions in one Intended for multiple themes or look variations, alternate stylings, and wardrobes Complex concept consultation enabled Select from proofs or trust our judgement Typically, 3-6 hours of shoot time Multiple locations allowed Complimentary studio optional Perfect for multiple poses, outfits, candid's, or adding creative alternatives (double exposure, shutter drag, complex lighting set-ups, etc.)
Coming soon:
Equal opportunity sessions, creative opportunities, and education.
Thinking back on our own periods of youth and envisioning a world for our children with abundant community action and opportunity, we're pushing to create some.
Equal Opportunity (First Impressions):
When it comes to portrait sessions, we are working to finalize and gather sponsorship for a program that covers or assists in covering costs for students who can't afford professional photography services.
Aspiring Photographers and Models
We've continued to build a massive community of creatives through our work, our studio, and our networking programs. There is no gatekeeping around us. We want a bountiful and thriving creative community in Portland, and know firsthand how difficult creative pathways can be (especially full-time in the 2020s). After hosting many dozens of workshops and networking events, and knowing soon our sons will soon be teens and young adults, we want to put some attention toward educating or inspiring youth through creative opportunities. The program is in its infancy, but the idea is exactly what a creative like me would've loved to have at that stage of my life. We and our community partners intend to offer education about photography and lighting, provide access to our professional studio and equipment, gather for viewings and peer review, host contests, host photo walks or location-based shoots, hold discussions, host guest artists, and connect young adults to a larger, real-life community of their peers. Once we get this rolling, we intend to have both free and affordable activities and events.
Get rewarded for referrals
If you're the gateway connecting Nilas Photography to someone in need of some awesome imagery, I would be happy to get you paid when fellow students book us from your recommendation! We'd much rather reward a real person than pay some big company to advertise, so reach out and learn how you can earn money or even a free photo session.
Express Interest
Who is the photographer?
I'm Michael, and you can read all about myself, my family, and our studio on our about us page. Pretty much, I take loads of pictures in various scenarios, and we educate and build a photo community out of our studio.
I'm very laid back, straightforward, and kind. I like nerd things, love the outdoors, and enjoy the simple things with my family and creative friends. I'm told I'm alternative and like the way that sounds. Our home and lifestyle lean gothic, or carry a truly spooky appeal. I love to think for myself and hope to inspire my children to be confident, moral, and outspoken. I always encourage adventure and deeply value diversity, inclusion, and dream for fairness in society.
What's the process?
-
Contact and consultation.
2. Choose a package and set a 25% deposit.
3. Set details like date, location, finalize details, and review any inspiration. I can provide recommendations or additional services, if needed. If you're session carries a theme or concept, we may set additional consults.
4. We shoot! I can provide guidance or simply work to create a comfortable environment. I'll lead the way.
5. I send out sample images, and you can select images to be edited. Remember, these are the unedited versions for review, and you can select additional images for potential package upgrades.
6. Edited images are delivered at the highest quality and without a watermark!
7. Prints! You can print through us or any provider you prefer. You are not restricted in any way.
8. Drop us a review and we'll connect when it's time for your next photo session!
Extra hands
If your photography session requires additional services like hair, make-up, outfitting, styling, or design of any kind, we know creatives in every field. We can help arrange it all once we're in contact.
Things to consider
Now, I know everyone feels sentiment differently, but consider this. I didn't really care about senior pictures. Granted, my photographer was very business forward, and I felt like an object on a stool. Honestly, I just didn't get it. I'm very grateful I picked up a camera and have my old amateur self-portraits, but I do often wish I had some crispy shots of myself at that pivotal age. Maybe a picture with my camera or out in the desert or up in the pines where I camped with my friends. I didn't care then, but now my kids are getting older and I often wish I could share more about me in that time in their life that they're soon to experience. So, not only do I propose a session, but I encourage you to put thought into it IF you want to. I'm pretty good at the whole photography part, so don't be shy to share ideas or inspiration from images that you love most. Think about what is important to you. You can bring props or people that represent you well. If we shoot out on location, we don't just have to look at the typical, beautiful spots. Maybe take an alternative option like a public space you frequent with friends, home, or your favorite spot to be. Consider outfits that you love, your go-to fit that defines you. Think about your passions and hobbies. If you know you want to be creative and just might need direction, just tell me.
Some sample galleries
