Yearbook Photography
Frequently Asked Questions

Is it too late to have my picture taken by Phil Cantor Photography for this year's yearbook?
No, it is not too late to have your picture taken by Phil Cantor and make it into the yearbook.

Don't I have to use the senior portraits I already took at school?
No, you don't. New Jersey state law allows you to submit your own photograph for use in high school yearbooks so long as it meets the standards and specifications of your school's yearbook. All portraits taken by Phil Cantor Photography are guaranteed to be approved and accepted by your yearbook.

I got a card from Joseph's Studios saying I had to choose a picture for the yearbook. I didn't like the pictures, do I still have to choose one?
Joseph's is the official yearbook photographer for Montclair High School. You are not required to use their photos as your yearbook choice.

What if I already took my picture at school?
Not a problem, you can have Phil Cantor Photography reshoot your portrait and the yearbook will use it.

What if I missed getting my picture taken at school?
You can call Phil Cantor Photography to schedule a senior portrait.

What if I already submitted a picture to the yearbook and I really would like to take a new one with Phil Cantor Photography?
When you call to make an appointment, you would need to let us know that you have already submitted a picture.

What happens at the photo session?
We photograph you in the right clothing for the formal senior yearbook with the proper lighting and background.  Boys must wear a tie and jacket to the studio. Girls wear a special drape that we provide. Then we have fun. You change into more casual clothing and we do more relaxed and easy portraits. If the weather is good, we may even go outside. 

What should I wear? How many changes of clothing should I bring?
Girls: We have the "drape" you will wear for your formal portrait. In addition, bring two or three clothing changes. One should be a casual outfit that fits your style, the other could be a bit more put-together, such as a button-down shirt or a favorite jacket or sweater. No logos, no broad stripes or plaids. Bring two different pant or skirt choices. Some girls have brought their prom dress for a shot. Hair and make-up: Do your hair before coming, and bring a brush. Make-up should be light and natural with a little more mascara and eye-liner. Bring lipstick and powder with you. Check out the Portfolio to see examples.
Summary: Bring at least two different outfits. Do makeup before coming. Bring hairbrush & lipstick.

Guys:  Come to the studio in your tie and jacket. Bring with you two additional shirts...your choice of shirts with a collar such as a polo shirt or button-down, or clean T-shirts. Absolutely NO logos (polo shirts with discreet symbols or logos are ok). Bring two pairs of pants, such as khakis or jeans or shorts. All clothing should be freshly cleaned or new and without wrinkles. Grooming:  if you are clean shaven, be sure to shave just before the session. Bring a hair brush with you. Check out the Portfolio to see examples.
Summary: Wear tie & jacket. Bring two extra shirts. Bring two extra pants. Shave. Bring hairbrush

How long will the session last?
Our photo sessions last around an hour.

What about the cost? I hear that Phil Cantor Photography is expensive. 
Phil Cantor's fees are very competitive, although they are a little more than the "average" photographer. His clients are made up of those parents who want a wonderful portrait of their senior and are willing to invest just a little more to get it. This portrait could very well be the last professional portrait you have created of your son or daughter for many years, so Phil will take the time necessary to create the very best for you.

Also, Phil's fees for graduating seniors represent a substantial savings from his family portrait prices! You still receive the very finest portraits, but at a special rate which is for graduating seniors only! (Also, by taking advantage of the "Great Summer Special" you can save even more! See below for details!

How do I choose photos?
After the Senior Portrait Session, we schedule a date for you to return to the studio with a parent for a Picture Review Session on the big screen, and to place your picture order. There are no proofs to lose or send back. The Picture Review Session takes about an hour and is included in your sitting fee. If you would like additional Review Sessions,  the fee is $99 per session.

What is special about having my picture taken by Phil Cantor Photography?
Phil Cantor Photography is located in the center of downtown Montclair, New Jersey. He has been taking yearbook portraits in Montclair, NJ since 1992.  Currently, he is the official photographer for Montclair Kimberley Academy and the Montclair Parks & Recreation Department. His recent portrait of the Montclair Police Department was featured in the Star Ledger and Montclair Times. His photographs are approved and accepted by Montclair High School and Verona High School. 

We know that your senior portrait is a part of your personal history. The photographs should be a record of how you appeared to the world at this time in your life. These photographs should not be stiff or unnatural. Phil Cantor believes firmly that your senior portrait should reflect your personality in a genuine way. We take the time to get it right, we allow you to wear clothing that reflects who you are. Plus, we take care of getting the picture to the yearbook.

How do I see samples of Phil Cantor Photography's work?
There are lots of examples here on the website: SENIOR PORTRAIT PORTFOLIO  

No risk guarantee. 
There is no risk to having your picture taken by Phil Cantor Photography. We are so sure that you will love the portraits we take of you that we will cheerfully refund your sitting fee after the Picture Review Session if you are not happy with your portrait choices.