Formal Senior Yearbook Drape and Tux Portraits in Richmond, Virginia and Beyond

Senior year is a major milestone, and your formal senior portrait is one of the most meaningful ways to capture it. Whether you’re preparing for college or just soaking in every last moment of high school, your tux or drape photo is a classic tradition and one you’ll look back on for years to come.

At Katie Kraft Photography, we specialize in creating formal senior portraits that are polished, natural, and completely stress-free-perfect for students who want something elevated and timeless.

What Is a Formal Senior Portrait?

A formal senior portrait is the traditional photo used in your school’s yearbook. Girls wear a black velvet drape with pearls, and guys wear a black tux with a white shirt and bowtie. These portraits are taken against a clean, neutral backdrop-and I provide the exact backdrop required by your school to ensure your photo meets every specification. This isn’t a rushed, one-and-done school photo. Our drape and tux sessions are calm, guided, and tailored to help you look and feel your best. Every session includes:

• Natural posing so you feel confident, not stiff
• Soft, professional lighting and a studio environment
• One fully retouched digital image (with the option to add more)
• A portrait that actually looks like you-just a little more polished

A Senior Portrait Experience You’ll Enjoy

We've created a space where seniors can walk in, relax, and leave feeling amazing about their portraits. We keep things easy and fun with music playing in the background, gentle posing guidance, and a chance to see your images during the session so you know you’re getting photos you love. You’ll leave feeling confident, happy, and genuinely excited about the portraits we captured.

Schools I Frequently Work With

I’m lucky to photograph seniors from all over the Richmond area, and over the years, I’ve gotten to know what each school needs when it comes to formal portraits. Many of my clients come from schools with strong academic programs or specialty centers, as well as private schools with rich traditions-and I’m familiar with their yearbook requirements and deadlines.

Here are just a few of the schools I regularly serve:

Private Schools:

• Collegiate School
• St. Catherine’s School
• St. Christopher’s School
• Trinity Episcopal School
• The Steward School

Public Schools:

• Deep Run High School (Center for Information Technology)
• Mills E. Godwin High School (Center for Medical Sciences)
• Douglas S. Freeman High School (Leadership Center)
• Glen Allen High School (Center for Education and Human Development)
• Midlothian High School (International Baccalaureate program)
• James River High School (Leadership and International Relations)
• Cosby High School (Health Sciences Specialty Center)
• Clover Hill High School (Math and Science Specialty Center)
• Monacan High School (Health Professions and Therapies)
• Monacan High School (Humanities Specialty Center)
• Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School (Government and International Studies)
• Thomas Dale High School (School of the Arts)

If your school isn’t listed-no worries at all! I work with students from all across the Richmond area and Central Virginia, and I’m happy to check your school’s guidelines to make sure your formal portrait meets every requirement.

Why Book With Katie Kraft?

You only get one senior year-your formal portrait should feel just as special as the moment. I’ve worked with many seniors and families in Richmond and the surrounding areas, and I’ve created a process that’s efficient, comfortable, and completely personalized.You’ll get:

• A beautifully lit, flattering portrait
• A welcoming space with good vibes and no pressure
• Expert guidance so you’re never left wondering what to do
• High-quality digital images you’ll want to keep and share with family and friends

Want something beyond the yearbook image? You can also upgrade to a full Signature or Simplicity Session, including multiple outfits and on-location portraits that reflect your full personality.

How to Book

Click the "Book Now" button below to see our currently availability and to book your session.

Let’s Celebrate This Moment

Your senior portrait should reflect who you are-confident, accomplished, and ready for what’s next. Whether you're at a private school steeped in tradition or a top-ranked public school, your formal portrait deserves care, quality, and a little fun too. Let’s make it official.