What makes a senior portrait stand out? is it the striking backdrop, impeccable lighting or rich personality captured in each shot? For these student photographers, the answer lies somewhere between all three.

Seniors Nex Thompson and Marie Di Fabbrizo have turned their passion for photography into thriving senior portrait businesses. While they both operate independently, they each bring unique styles, experiences and processes to capture unique senior photos for their classmates.

Thompson first discovered photography in an introductory class during their freshman year, and they originally disliked it. Their passion emerged the summer after sophomore year on a National Geographic trip to Thailand. One of Thompson’s favorite moments from the trip was photographing an elephant.

“We swooped under the rope, breaking all the rules, just following the elephant,” Thompson said. “That was a really cool moment to see how photography can lead to experiences beyond just standing and taking photos—it can be really exciting.”
Initially, the focus of Thompson’s photos was on nature and wildlife. As they continued with photography, their path shifted to have a greater focus on portraits. They first started taking senior portraits during their junior year when a senior friend needed a photographer.
“She asked because I do photography, and she needed someone,” Thompson said. “I really liked it, and had a lot of fun.”

Since then, Thompson’s business has grown. They promote their services through an Instagram photography account, which includes numerous senior portraits, travel photos and candid shots. As the demand for senior portraits continued, Thompson was surprised by how busy their schedule became.

Thompson’s typical senior portrait session lasts 45 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on the location. Duo sessions, where two seniors pose together, usually take longer. After shooting, Thompson selects the best photos, eliminating those that are blurry or poorly lit, and then edits them to produce polished final images.

“A great senior portrait captures a relaxed, candid vibe. People often start nervous, but as the session goes on, they loosen up,” Thompson shared. “Moments where they’re genuinely smiling or reacting naturally stand out.”

Senior Issy Sooben, one of Thompson’s clients, agreed that the process got more natural over time. She described how her initial nerves melted away as the session progressed.

“I think it was awkward in the beginning because I just didn’t really know how to pose. It wasn’t their fault,” Sooben said. “But it felt really comfortable at the end, because I could just do whatever.”

Sooben mentioned that she was pleasantly surprised when she was given a large selection of photos to choose from after the session. She thought that Thompson’s process was extremely professional.

“I felt like the photos were being taken by an adult who’d have many years of experience,” Sooben said. “I wasn’t expecting to take so many pictures. We took so many, but I’m really happy we did.”

Di Fabbrizio’s passion for photography was sparked by a meaningful Christmas gift. She started during her sophomore year when she received a camera as a present. She explained that the higher quality gave her an excuse to take more photos, which allowed her to build up a portfolio as she improved her skills.

“I used to really focus on nature because I liked being in control of the subject. I could sit as an observer and wait for the perfect moment,” Di Fabbrizo said. “Now, I’ve shifted more towards portraits and more stylistic things where I can alter the subject to satisfy my creative vision.”

Her journey into senior portrait photography began with a desire to help her community. Over the years, Di Fabbrizio had spent a lot of time volunteering at the Brookline Food Pantry. Inspired by her own involvement, she realized that she could use her passion for photography as a fundraiser for the Brookline Food Pantry.

“For my senior year, I wanted to do one last hurrah and donate a lot of money [to the Brookline Food Pantry] because they’ve provided me with community and real-world experience,” Di Fabbrizo said. “I decided to combine that with building up my portfolio.”

When doing photoshoots with clients, Di Fabbrizio first coordinates the time and location through her Instagram, email or the links on her portfolio. She describes that the portrait sessions are casual.

“We walk around the park, find good spots, and I try to understand the subject’s personality,” Di Fabbrizo said. “I also try to make them laugh for a natural smile instead of the typical forced school yearbook photo.”

Both photographers agree that a great senior portrait goes beyond technical skill—it’s about creating a moment. Whether through Thompson’s relaxed sessions or Di Fabbrizio’s attention to detail, their classmates are left with senior portraits that capture lifetime memories. For Di Fabbrizio, the bonds she forms while getting to know her clients during sessions are among the most rewarding aspects of photography.

“I love talking to people and connecting with my community.” Di Fabbrizio said. “Having one-on-one time with someone can feel daunting at first, but I enjoy breaking the ice, letting their guard down and everyone having a good time.”