Mikey - Grandview High School - Class of 2024
Street smarts for Mikey! My only guy session this season to do the Denver walkabout. I love urban sessions; especially with my guys, there’s more photo ops when there are walls, stairs, benches and a place to park your car if you want to have your car in your session. When I held their consultation, Tila (mom) opted for Castle Rock for Mikey’s urban session, that was all fine with me, but I do my due diligence and double check to see if events are happening that might encroach on our session. Castle Rock always have events going on. It turned out that their day had an event happening, so I suggested downtown Denver and OMG, the Denver vibe fit Mikey to a T.
Mikey and Tila were both such a pleasure to spend a few hours with. We chatted about all kinds of stuff and Mikey could hold the conversation too. I love when my senior clients want to talk with me. Mikey was all smiles and made me laugh.
We definitely had a surprise at the end of the session on top of the parking garage for Mikey’s car shoot. We were greeted with BOOBS - a lot of pairs. I had my 16 yr old son with me as my helper too. Poor guys were absolutely uncomfortable. Rightfully so. The boob shoot was for breast cancer awareness coming up for October. We grinned and bared it! Pun definitely intended.
Dylan - Cherokee Trail High School - Class of 2026
Dylan - OMG! I am totally crushing on Dylan’s photos! When everything comes together, it’s like a Chef’s Kiss!
I was very excited to hear from Pamela again for Dylan’s Cherokee Trail High School senior Portraits! I had photographed her older daughter Olivia’s senior portraits back in 2022. I was so pleased they kept me in mind for Dylan.
Dylan’s consultation was a bit more thought proving especially to location. Dylan absolutely wanted the nature scene which knocked out the the Urban/ city location. Pamela inquired about the same location that Olivia had, but had to inform her that, that location wasn’t the same as it was 4 years ago. Location do change year to year and not for the better. They went through my location page and had asked about another location, and unfortunately that location has become a Challenge to get to. I had suggested two other spots that are a bit out of our territory, but are worth the drive. They settled on a spot outside of Morrison.
We had perfect weather and perfect lighting. Timing is everything in photography and we timed it just right.
Dylan was such a pleasure to photograph. He was so easy going and all smiles. Dylan’s outfits fit the scene perfectly and were well thought out. GO MOM!
Leighton - Cherokee Trail High School - Class of 2026
Leighton - what a doll! Seriously, this young lady with her perfect skin, blue eyes and perfectly styled hair. YES! Stephanie booked Leighton’s senior portrait session with me in late June for the Hudson Garden’s location. Their consultation was straight forward and easy, they new their location and they already had outfits in mind.
The session went flawlessly except for a little camera malfunction right at the beginning of our photo session. I am no good at trouble shutting under pressure. They were patient with me and we did have extra time since both of us showed up early. All was good in the end!
Leighton and Stephanie were both such a pleasure to work with. We did time the weather perfectly. We started an hour early, working around thunderstorms that day.
The whole process was easy and straight forward. I am so happy with Leighton’s photos!
Portraits vs Lifestyle Photography
You’re searching for the perfect portrait photographer, but you come across a “lifestyle” photographer. What is the difference - and does it even matter? Understanding the difference can help you choose a photographer whose style best fits your vision. I am here to help clients choose the right style for their session - whether it’s for senior portraits or family.
What is Portrait Photography: Portrait photography is intentional, posed and more formal, simple put. The photographer controls the environment with lighting, background and posing. The photographer guides and directs client(s) poses and expressions. A portrait photographer will also focus on clean and timeless composition, background is not the main focus, the subject is. Portraits are often studio-based or carefully chosen outdoor spots which leads your eye to the subject. Editing is often more clean, classic and sometimes dramatic. The ultimate goal for portrait photography is to show the person at their best.
What is a lifestyle Photographer: Lifestyle photographer is candid involving real - life moment and storytelling. A photographer will put emphasis on connection, movement and the environment. If there’s any posing, its loose, but designed to feel natural. Lifestyle captures more of the scene with less emphasis on composition and less of the desired bokeh (blur) that you see more in a portrait. Lifestyle edits are more airy, bright and soft. The ultimate goal is storytelling and relaxed branding.
Okay. Which one is right for you? If you’re a client who wants a polished timeless image, who prefers the photographer to take control of the environment and person in the environment, you simple want a portrait photographer vs a lifestyle who capture real-life moments and connection. The photographer has less control on the environment and the subject(s)
Can you blend the two? Like me, I can blend both styles, depending on the client’s preference. I bring the best of both worlds. You’ll get your posed classics and the candid gold that happens in between.
For example: In a senior session, we might start off with formal shots, then switch to relaxed shots walking downtown.
Choosing the right photographer is about your style and personality. Still not sure which one’s your style? Let’s Chat!
Location. Location. Location. Choosing the prime spot.
Choosing a portrait can be a little thought provoking. Here are my thoughts to get you in the right spot. I provide a plethora of different location to fit you personality and interests in the Denver area and beyond. You don’t have to take my suggestion. It’s your shoot and I shoot any spot. One location does not fit all. So think about this:
YOUR PERSONALITY - are you artistic, athletic, casual, nature lover, urban skateboarder, goth chic, outdoors man, studious, whatever it is, location can reveal you. Here are some examples:
. City Slickers: rooftop garages with a sweet view, mural walls, urban streets
. Artistic: Graffiti walls, galleries, art museums, architectural buildings, record stores, streets with signs
. Studious: Library, bookstores
. Nature Lover: Mountain scenery, parks, botanical gardens
. Athletic: school stadium, track fields.
MATCHING THE MOODS TO THE OUFIT(S) - what do I mean? I mean, make sure the background complements your outfits and does not clash. For example: you’re dressed in a suit and tie or you’re into fashion, but want a natural backdrop. Suit and tie (dress clothing, fashion) exudes, a business profession. This may not fit the natural scene appropriately and maybe urban is just the scene.
Okay, have you heard of juxtaposition? We can apply that to photographs and portraits if done with thought and intent. If not, then it can clash.
A juxtaposition for example: you love to 4x4 but you live in the city. Maybe a Jeep on a rooftop with a view? Or, you’re a cowboy with that awesome hat, jeans and boots, but you live in the city. BOOM! Juxtapose that!
. If you’re more bold, edgy, gritty, maybe urban, industrial, graffiti walls backdrop would fit the mood more appropriately
. If your mood is more soft pastels, flow- y, maybe floral (botanical) gardens, golden hour, natural backdrops would set the scene better.
SENTIMENTAL SPOTS: These are spots that mean something to you - your backyard, favorite hangout, your high school, or even a childhood playground. This can add authenticity and real emotion to your portraits.
My son for example: he loves old cars, vintage and antiques, so I found it fitting to take him to Tulsa, for a Route 66 theme. Now, I know most people do not have the luxury or time for a destination shoot, but it worked for us and he engaged more than if I had popped him in environment that didn’t mean anything to him. You can read his blog here : Carston Smith
And of course, TIMING IS EVERYTHING in portraits and all genres of photography - LIGHTING! Mid day reveals harsher light, but can be more dramatic and edgier. Golden Hour ( an hour or so before sunrise and sunset) reveals a warmer, more flattering glow. Again. what is your style and personality?
In conclusion, location is mostly everything to your senior portraits. If you’re not a nature person, but pick a natural backdrop, it may not translate to your personality, interest and vibe. DON’T forget about juxtaposition. This is where brainstorming and creativity come in to play. After all, you’re hiring a professional, so utilize that and come up with something non-traditional and really let your personality shine through.
Angelina - Elevation High School - class of 2025
Double the pleasure with these two lovelies! Look at them, they’re gorgeous and adorable inside and out. Marina booked their session in January for their senior portraits and again for their graduation portraits in April. So, not only did I get twins , I got two sessions with them! Marina wanted their senior portrait location at the Botanical Gardens. We didn’t even have to discuss this at their consultation. I have never been to the gardens during the winter months, but I knew we didn’t need all the botanical to get awesome shots there. The Gardens is dream location. Boy, were we lucky with our scheduled date - 65 degrees with a chance of clouds. The girls got to don their sun dressing in January.
It’s hard to write words to describe this session - everything went to smoothly from booking to final gallery presentation. I did get to use my new Nikkor 85mm lens on the girls session, too. Man, that is a sweet piece of glass. Just look at those photos. Shape as a tack.
I loved the girls style - loved the coordination of their outfits, even though they’re not identical twins, they went so well together in style, smiles and personalities. And their hair - just loved it! I was absolutely thrilled they got to wear their dresses - they went so well with the surroundings. A splash of color goes a long way. They nailed it. They even got to wear the ballerina tutus without freezing their thules off.
The whole family came along, and what a perfect day to bring dad, too. Its great to see when families can make family time even during a session. After their session, I couldn’t wait for their graduation session. That’s a whole other blog.
Isabella - EHS - 2025
Double the pleasure with these two lovelies! Look at them, they’re gorgeous and adorable inside and out. Marina booked their session in January for their senior portraits and again for their graduation portraits in April. So, not only did I get twins , I got two sessions with them! Marina wanted their senior portrait location at the Botanical Gardens. We did’t even have to discuss this at their consultation. I have never been to the gardens during the winter months, but I knew we didn’t need all the botanicals to get awesome shots there. The Gardens is dream location. Boy, were we lucky with our scheduled date - 65 degrees with a chance of clouds. The girls got to don their sun dressing in January.
It’s hard to write words to describe this session - everything went to smoothly from booking to final gallery presentation. I did get to use my new Nikkor 85mm lens on the girls session, too. Man, that is a sweet piece of glass. Just look at those photos. Shape as a tack.
I loved the girls style - loved the coordination of their outfits, even though they’re not identical twins, they went so well together in style, smiles and personalities. And their hair - just loved it! I was absolutely thrilled they got to wear their dresses - they went so well with the surroundings. A splash of color goes a long way. They nailed it. They even got to wear the ballerina tutus without freezing their thules off.
The whole family came along, and what a perfect day to bring dad, too. Its great to see when families can make family time even during a session. After their session, I couldn’t wait for their graduation session. That’s a whole other blog.
Eeny, meeny, miny, moe. Choosing the right photographer for you
Picking a photographer ain’t no nursery rhyme. Every photographer will think they are worthy of your business. This is our business and how we make money. To my dismay, I am not the fairest of them all (wink and sigh emoji here). We are worthy to some and not others. We all don’t like Ford’s, we want a Chevy. Choosing the right photographer for you comes down to 3 things: Style, Vibe and Budget.
These days, Google puts a photographer on every street corner practically, so go to Starbucks on the opposite corner and sit down for a search.
STYLE CHECK! Every photographer has his or her own style or vibe. Look through portfolios and ask:
. How is the overall images? What you see is what you will get. If you like tradition, but the photographers style is Bright and Airy, not the photographer for you even if the price is right.
. Do you like their editing style: dark and moody, light and airy, tradition and vibrant or all natural. This goes with overall image. Don’t ask a photographer to photography or edit based on your style. Photographers build up their clientele with that particular style. Again, if the photographer is in your price range, but not you style, move on.
. Are the photos too posed, too candid? This is definitely a photographers comfort zone. Posing is difficult to master. And if not posed correctly can make the subject look award and uncomfortable. Keeping your subject engaged and flowing in a session can prove to be challenging and uncomfortable also. Many clients do not feel comfortable being asked to walk around, skip and twirl for those candid shots. Every client is different, so get a feel for each one.
. Can you see yourself in their photos? If their work isn’t exciting to you, look on…
VIBE CHECK - even though you may not know the photographer before had, get to know them through: reviews, social media or a phone call to see if there’s a connection.
. Review the reviews. FYI: just because one photographer has 100 reviews vs one with 10 doesn’t mean Jack! And doesn’t automatically make them better than the next. Review are acquired differently from photographer to photographer. Incentives are a way for some photographers to gain their multitude of reviews.
. Follow us on social media - we don’t bite. We would like to follow back. Personally, this is great way to pick up on your vibe.
. Old school phone call - a quick call for questions and concerns can set the tone. Tone being, is there pressure?
MONEY, MONEY . . . MONEY! Know your budget and what’s included.
In this day and age the word “transparent” is a fine word! WE ALL LIKE TRANSPARENCY.
Ask what’s included in the pricing:
. Clothing or (outfit changes). In my opinion, clients should bring and wear what they choose, but keep in mind clothing changes take time, so if you have an hour session with multiple changes, you’ve cut your session time in half.
. How many locations? How long is the Session? You really need search this one out. When a photographer says: ‘three location’ for 2 hours. Is that three driving location and is that possible with the time allotted, or is it three separate spot in a “location” where you walk to. There’s a difference. So ask that question if you’re unsure.
. Do you get digital images, prints or both? Most everyone is social these day, so digital is the way to go. And all photographers (I think) go digital. Prints are always available through the photographer or on your own.
. Is editing and special edits included? Editing is where the jam meets the peanut butter. Editing is a whole other skill and takes years to master. This can make or break a photographer. Editing is a whole other blog post. Editing can be the most time consuming for a photographer - it take time and effort to create the finished product. There are always distraction and skin issues when it come to portraits. To make a photo a true portrait we have to tackle these issues. Does the photographer charge extra for removals that matter most in the portrait?
. Some of use like a la cart, others like to be more inclusive. Today, especially for me, I like transparency. I want to know what it will cost me upfront. I don’t like surprises. A la Carte is pay as you go, get what you want, Not what the photographers wants you to believe you want (packages).
Don’t just look at price - look at the value
Josh’s senior Portraits Arapahoe High School - Class 0f 2025
Josh - ready to crack that bat! Debbie booked Josh’s session for March, which is completely off season, when scenery is concerned. Debbie asked where a good place to go this time of year. If it’s not an urban setting, then Red Rocks is probable the best. November - March is a perfect time. No concerts and greenery isn’t the main focus, Red Rocks is!
On the phone consultation, Debbie was specific on her expectations for Josh’s photos. I really appreciated this. This gave me perspective and clarity. In the end I knew what not to do and there was a couple of spots they did not favor, which is totally fine. I never take offense, because what I like doesn’t always coincide with the client. And the client gets what they want! Debbie asked question like I would ask question. Lets face it, finding a photographer is daunting these days with a photographer on every street corner. I want my clients to know exactly what they are getting.
The whole family came minus their daughter. The Lew’s were all so nice and friendly and patient . . . I kind of took them on the scenic route to get to one of our spots. A unnecessary detour, but it all worked out. I wanted to ask Josh more about his baseball, but I’m not a multitask-er and get too focused (pun intended) with a camera in my face.
I am so stickin’ happy with Josh’s final photos!
Samuel - Elevation high school - 2025
Samuel - right on task. Sam’s mom, Teresa booked a senior session in January. When I spoke to Teresa on the phone for Sam’s consultation, location was top priority, especially in January. I admit, I steer clear of nature location this time of year - It’s just not pretty. So, I always suggest the urban setting, but Sam didn’t want my tradition locations for his shoot. I suggested a library. Sam and Teresa really liked that idea. Teresa suggested the Denver Library. I am born and raised in Colorado and have never stepped foot in the Denver Library. They decided to do the last half of the session outside around the capital building and city Park.
I was absolutely crushing over Samuel’s outfits. Way to go MOM! Yes, I like my kiddos dressing the part. He looked so sharp, classy and timeless. No trends here. I always appreciate the thoughtfulness and planning when it comes to clothing. Sam asked me if I felt inspired by clothing. I said, “Yes and no.” I can be uninspired by clothing choices. Clothing can make or break the image.
Well, once outside, we felt the chill in the air. Samuel was a trooper walking around in just a light jacket. Me, I dress like a burnt marshmallow ( black snow gear).
I love Samuel’s Images! Teresa and Sam were so pleasant to work with. everything flowed nicely from beginning to end.
TJ - Rangeview High School - 2025
TJ - the sound of music. Jenny booked TJ’s senior portraits with me in November. When I spoke with Jenny on the phone for TJ’s Consultation, there was a clash of opinions amongst the Tinsly Clan. TJ wanted the nature scene, while Jenny wanted the Urban. I really did task Jenny’s side; especially this time of year, and I just love urban for guys. But everyone needs to be happy. I suggested Red Rocks which never come up on there end. Red Rocks has a very short window, but being in November, It was perfect timing with concert season closing for the year. TJ plays the acoustic guitar, so even more fitting to do Red Rocks.
My mom was my helper on this session and boy did we all have fun! My mom talks and teases in good fun which loosened up my subject, while my usual helper is less engaging. The pistachio ice-cream (weather) turned quickly on us from full sun to clouds. In the end, the clouds were a great cover and made for fantastic photos.
I absolutely enjoyed my session with TJ. He made a great subject and he has made it on my home page!
Keep rockin’, TJ
Janessa - Cherokee Trial High School - 2025
Janessa - what a doll! Sweet as pie! Jayne and Janessa come to see me for their consultation. I did Janessa’s older sister’s senior portraits for the class of 2021? Janessa wanted the natural look, but wanted to be different than the others. Just adding a real pop of color would definitely be different from the usaul white. I went over all my nature location and they chose my favorite nature spot. I usually have this location to myself with the exception of a local walking his goat. Yes, a goat. I absolutely love this spot. The lighting is usually perfect unless you have a cloudy day. I took Janessa to a new spot I found, and oh, man!
Janessa said that she was uncomfortable and didn’t know what to do. Most peeps are and that’s my job to make my peeps feel comfortable. But right out of the gates, Janessa seemed natural and comfortable. As you can see from here photos, she didn’t look uncomfortable one bit! She was a natural!
I loved that Janessa went different with the red and purple long dresses. This was different in my eyes and was very refreshing! I LOVED Janessa’s session! It was perfect!
Mickala - Cherokee Trial High School - class of 2025
OMG! Sweet Mickala - just looking at her, you get a high of sweetness! That smile did not come off this sweet thing’s face for 2hrs. Alina and Mickala came just around the corner for an in-person consultation. They live in walking distance from my house. I always love meeting my client’s before the session. This way we build that initial rapport.
Mickala without a doubt wanted fall foliage. So, I suggested a great spot in the Littleton Area. They booked their session for the end of September with the expectation we would shoot October. My awesome mom did reconnaissance for me before their session. With the trees barely turning, we pushed their session into October. With CTHS’s deadline looming and my fall break excursion, we had to get the session in regardless of peak colors. The weather was absolutely perfect.
Mickala asked me at the consultation if I could do less blur (bokeh) in the photos and more of the scene in focus. I admit, that request was a bit out of my comfort zone; specifically for portraits, this isn’t my style of portrait photography, buy I told her would do my best to get some without the blur. Yes, there are trends in photography. Apparently this was one of them.
I am so happy with how Mickala’s images turned out. Alina and Mickala both got what they wanted. I absolutely loved Mickala’s look - I’ll call it, bohemian goth.
Max - GHS - 2025
“Humans recognize effort, and that’s what I do. I give max effort.” - Justin Gaethje.
A quote to start the blog off with. Amy booked Max’s senior portraits with me as a repeat client. I did his big sister, Madeleine’s senior portraits. I hope I remember right, Class of 2022 for Madeleine?! I always appreciate my repeat clients!!! Thank You! Max decided he wanted the urban scene for his portraits. Denver was his top spot. I absolutely love the urban setting for the guys!
I had clients a few weeks before Max’s session, where we were so close to a shooting, yes just around the corner from us at Union Station. I felt like we were in lion or hyena territory, and the gazelles (people) fleeing for safety. I felt I needed to let Amy know the circumstance for Denver. I gave Amy the option to continue on there or elsewhere, but Max really wanted Denver. I mean really, what are the chances? I suggested that we bring a man along to our session for an extra lookout. Her husband was out of town, so my husband (kind of the jungle), with no complaints, tagged along.
I recall a conversation we had at the consultation for Max, about Amy’s upcoming trip to South Africa for a safari, and Max asked if she was scared about the lions, hyenas and zebras, oh my! Sorry no tigers or bears in Africa. Anyway, in our opinion, humans are more scary and dangerous than a lion. I don’t know about a hyena though, humans would be more like a hyena, opportunistic, rip you to sheds if they had the chance, steal from your neighbor kind. Hyenas are Africa’s bullies. Mean people suck! Man, I went on a rant! (sigh emoji) But it is really unfortunate that we have to watch our backs fearing for the proverbial ambush everywhere we go these days.
PSA: Denver is becoming a higher risk location. I will not say “NO” to this location, but extra precautions are needed. Safety is important to all of us involved. Both parents must be there! I love shooting in Denver (with a camera, y’all), but Denver is truly turning into a: Sierra, Hotel, India, Tango HOLE!
I absolutely enjoyed my session with Max and catching up with Amy. Max had an infectious smile and like his sister before him, worked the camera! I loved how Max looked so cool, casual in his layered outfits.
Chloe - Eaglecrest High School - class of 2025
Oooo - Chloe - petals to the metal. When I received Chloe’s booking for senior portraits with the Denver Botanical Gardens - Yes! Yes! Yes! I absolutely love the Gardens for the Girls! Note: I do not make extra off this location. The BG requires a permit to photograph there, and the permit is at the cost of the client. But well worth the extra cost IMO. There are a plethora of spots to shoot. If you want flowers, this is the location!
I loved Chloe’s outfits. Simple, easy, black and white with a splash of her letter Jacket. She looked very feminine and sweet with her bare feet as a NO shoe choice. Birkenstock to walk around in only.
We started our session in sunshine with a down pour in the middle, and clearing skies for the end. The rain made for an ethereal fee. The rain made the ground and vegetation pop.
During our rain break, we talked about our travels. Both of our husbands work for United Airlines.
OMG! I absolutely Love Chloe’s photos!
Jake - Cherokee Trail High School - Class of 2025
Jake - just a big smiley teddy bear! Sherry’s consultation for Jake was for a location more on the urban look, but she wanted a photo with a fence to go along with his older sister’s senior portraits. This particular location has the urban/industrial/nature scene in one spot, so we got the fence with the greenery in.
Jake was so awesome to work with! He was all smiles and easy to talk too. He looked like a guy who should be on the field, but is more interested in physics. Sherry was such a pleasure to chat with too. Their session flowed from beginning to end. I loved Jake’s session!
Emily’s Senior Portraits - Stem - Class of 2025
Sara reached out to me asking if I could do Emily’s senior portraits with her hawk - I said, “absolutely I can!” I did her sister’s senior portraits for the class of 2024, so I was familiar with Sara and excited to work with her again and Emily!
Emily wanted nature, specifically the fall colors. So, I had a great suggestion for a location for fall foliage and for a hawk, and it was closer to them - WIN! I loved Emily’s color pallet. It went so well with the changing colors and looked very natural with the hawk and the scenery. Emily is a Falconer, so the hawk was an exciting prop and it was interesting to watch her handle the hawk. too. I picked Emily’s brain and learned some things about raising a hawk. It’s a wonderful thing what Falconers do.
I loved how Emily’s photos turned out! I enjoyed my conversation with her and Sara. I am grateful for my repeat customers!
Ashley - Grandview High School - Class of 2025
Porter and Ashley - double shooting in the city. Porter’s mom, Lisa, booked Porter and Ashley’s session with downtown Denver for their location. Denver has a lot of goodies as far as spots to shoot, so I give clients plenty of time to do our “walkabout” and with two of them, we definitely needed the time.
So who’s shooting who in Denver. Literally, I’m shooting my client’s with a (camera), while someone else is shooting others with a gun. Seriously, just around the the corner from us, 8 or more rounds go off. We all stopped and paused thinking it was fireworks until we saw a bunch of people flee from around the corner, then you realize.
With that, our session was shot short. I never cut my client’s short on time and Porter really wanted his car with Denver in the Background. So, not only did we get nervous with the shooting situation, the pistachio Ice-cream had turned (weather) on us. RAIN!
I rescheduled another session with Portrer and Ashley to get their time in and shots with Porter’s car. Denver wasn’t an option at this point, so I suggested Castle Rock with one of their cool parking garages, yeah, it’s not Denver, but pretty sweet for second best.
I loved how Porter and Ashley coordinated their clothing! They are such a sweet couple and loved hearing how the meet.Porter is at EHS, and Ashley at GHS. I had great conversation with them and Porter’s parents. They were such a dream to work with.
PSA: Go with your gut. Be aware of your surrounding at all times. Hard to do when you have a camera in your face.For Denver shoots, I will bring a second person to be my look out. I was very grateful Porter’s dad was there with us, HE MADE THE CALL. Always look at people, make eye contact. Don’t have your face in your phone every moment, that makes you an easy target. Know your exit plan.
Porter - Eaglecrest High School - Class of 2025
Porter and Ashley - double shooting in the city. Porter’s mom, Lisa, booked Porter and Ashley’s session with downtown Denver for their location. Denver has a lot of goodies as far as spots to shoot, so I give clients plenty of time to do our “walkabout” and with two of them, we definitely needed the time.
So who’s shooting who in Denver. Literally, I’m shooting my client’s with a (camera), while someone else is shooting others with a gun. Seriously, just around the the corner from us, 8 or more rounds go off. We all stopped and paused thinking it was fireworks until we saw a bunch of people flee from around the corner, then you realize.
With that, our session was shot short. I never cut my client’s short on time and Porter really wanted his car with Denver in the Background. So, not only did we get nervous with the shooting situation, the pistachio Ice-cream had turned (weather) on us. RAIN!
I rescheduled another session with Portrer and Ashley to get their time in and shots with Porter’s car. Denver wasn’t an option at this point, so I suggested Castle Rock with one of their cool parking garages, yeah, it’s not Denver, but pretty sweet for second best.
I loved how Porter and Ashley coordinated their clothing! They are such a sweet couple and loved hearing how the meet.Porter is at EHS, and Ashley at GHS. I had great conversation with them and Porter’s parents. They were such a dream to work with.
PSA: Go with your gut. Be aware of your surrounding at all times. Hard to do when you have a camera in your face.For Denver shoots, I will bring a second person to be my look out. I was very grateful Porter’s dad was there with us, HE MADE THE CALL. Always look at people, make eye contact. Don’t have your face in your phone every moment, that makes you an easy target. Know your exit plan.
Hannah -Chaparral High School - Class of 2025
Hotel. Alfa. November. November. Alfa. Hotel. Hannah, my sky girl. When Hannah’s mom booked and put airplanes down on the intake form, I was keeping my fingers crossed for another airplane shoot. Ka-ching, easiest consultation ever! Yankee. Echo. Sierra.- airplane and girly time!
Sierra. Hotel. India. Tango - we have turbulence ahead. I meet Stephen (the owner of the plane) at Centennial Airport an hour before the scheduled session to figure out plane placement. The pistachio ice- cream had already turned, but the session needed to go on. Stephen and I thought maybe an indoor session with all the nice expensive jets would be a nice option, and we had access to it. Hannah wanted her session outdoors . . . cancellation ahead . . . down pour! My client’s all showed up on time for their session, but our chat was to figure out our next reschedule date.
No extra fees with Stephen! He was so awesome and very flexible with his plane and scheduling. Our next shoot started out iffy with the weather. We did have a short weather delay, but managed to get a 90+ minute session in. For our patience, we were rewarded with a rainbow and an awesome moody sky at the end.
Hannah was so, Foxtrot. Unicorn. November. to shoot. She went with the flow and popped out her own ideas and worked that camera!