Plan for it
Plan ahead. Know about what your dream photographer charges and start a savings. See if they accept payment plans. Ask if they ever do model calls. Just don't wait until the last few months before graduation to be thinking of senior portraits or you will probably end up being rushed and disappointed.
Make a Deal
This is a little known fact, most photographers will barter with you. Do you have a business that would be helpful? Do you make something? Do you have items that would be worth the amount the session costs? I love a good trade! And, photographers are always looking for that perfect prop!
Enter Giveaways
Most photographers are running a giveaway a time or two a year. Make sure you enter all of those! You never know, you might just be the next lucky one!
Find a Newbie
While I don't recommend this all that often, if you're really in a pinch, you can find someone who is new to the game and looking to fill their portfolio. This has the advantage of being cheap, but as the old adage goes...'cheap ain't good and good ain't cheap'...so pick what's more important to you. Saving money or saving memories.
