After prom and just before graduation comes the yearbook, the tome dedicated to students’ high school careers. The funny notes and inside jokes are important but what about the photos? For some children (and parents) the photos of their kids are so important money is no object, even when the cost of a professional photo shoot goes upwards of $1,000.
Inside Edition recently spoke to high school students and their parents who are pulling out all the stops to make sure their kids aren’t cringing in embarrassment when the yearbook goes on sale. Parents are now shelling out big money for professional hair and makeup, new outfits and photography sessions. One senior booked a photographer who charges between $600 and $2,200. Photographers agree most of their high school clients seeking yearbook photos tend to be girls who want to feel as glamorous as their favorite celebrities.
This sounds a little excessive. Parents can spend their money how they want, of course, but it seems like a slippery slope. In the age of YouTube stardom (yes, you, Justin Bieber), the hope exists that just by exposing yourself and acting as though you’re already famous can make dreams come true. Kids are cruel; looking good can help, but spending that kind of money on a photo session shows that looks are the most important. Not the clubs you loved being in, not the sports teams. Yearbooks are about memories, not hair extensions. And if you want to get all glammed up? Well, that’s what prom is for.