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
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.
Christopher’s Senior Portraits Cherokee Trail High School - class of 2025
Christopher’s session - got that rocky mountain high. Heather came to me in late spring to book Christopher’s session for late July. July is a perfect time to do senior portraits for lot’s of reasons, but one being time. In my blog: ‘How to pick the perfect Location’, is, does the location have special meaning to you? I don’t get these very often, but the Gianella’s wanted their special location in Estes Park at their cabin. In that special location was another special spot for Christopher.
I will admit, the two clients I’ve had with a ‘special location’ have probably been my hardest, just because I am not familiar with the location. New and unexpected locations have their challenges: Lighting for one. What direction is my main light source coming from, and in that directional light, how do I place my subject with compositional value and interest? These are issues I can figure out by scouting out the area before hand. This was not a location I could easily get to for a quick scout out. So, I had to figure it out with a quick walk through before our session.
I absolutely love how Christopher’s photos turned out! I love the touch of the aviator glasses and the ball cap chilling on his cabin deck. And I am pleased I was able to capture him on his very special spot within a special location.
We had time, weather and we were in between plumes of forest fire smoke( clearer skies). We had the most perfect time. July 29th, senior portrait session done. Now we can focus on school check- in and relax a bit until school starting. When I say “we”, I got my son’s portraits done in June. GO us! Christopher has grown into a wonderful young man. He had such a nice smile and was fantastic subject to work with. He was flexible to my suggestion, and our little chats are always a plus too! Congrats on your SENIOR YEAR!
Mikey’s senior portraits 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 beAred it! Pun definitely intended.
Picking your perfect LOCATION
How to pick your outfits for your Senior Session GUYS and GIRLS
You can book your senior portrait session with me Schedule/ Booking
Hadden - East High School - Class of 2024
Oh, this was a special session, because he is the son of one of my closest high school friends. Alison and I have known each other since Jr high school. We played softball and volleyball together, playing the same positions. Our competition hasn’t kept us apart though. The only difference with us is, is she’s blond and left-handed.
We are Columbine Rebels, CLASS of 1993, So to be able to do Hadden’s senior portraits 31 years later is pretty darn cool. And cool Hadden is, he’s got Alison’s charm, athleticism and politeness about him, oh and his smiles! Hadden has great respect for his mother from what I can see, and can see they make a great duo.
Alison and Hadden had in their minds that they wanted to go more on the nature side for his portraits. I had scouted a couple of location, but in the end they decided on Central Park, because it was a spot Hadden could related to and had some meaning to him. This is one thing to consider when choosing a location, is it a special spot to you? I want my Client’s and friend’s to be happy with their spot, but I admit I was intimidated with this location, why, SUN, SUN, SUN all day long…I be like a vampire and retreat with the sight of SUN! And the location was natural with a touch of urban, but not urban enough to call urban. With the layout of the park, I felt it be a great spot for a morning (sunrise) spot, but going for sunrise can be a horrible idea to some when your photographer wants to start even before the sun is awake. Direct sun in portraits is very harsh and distraction. I shoot with OCF regularity, but my comfort zone is evening time with less of the direct sun. I had to gear up and put my camera straps on and go for it.
I am beyond thrilled with how the lighting and my subject turned out! I really had to over power the sun on this session and the lighting was perfect! And we even got Ruby in for a few shots.
If you would like to book a session CLICK HERE
How to pick your perfect LOCATION
What to wear for your senior portrait session BOYS and GIRLS
Andrew - Grandview High School - Class of 2024
Nuggets Swept the NBA, Andrew swept his session - and he just might be the Nugget’s biggest fan. Amy (mom) contacted me about Andrew’s senior portraits and said they new exactly where they would like his session, a parking garage in Mid- Denver. This garage has some great vantage points. I said this was one of my favorite spots and had a couple of clients at this location for the 2023 class, so I knew the scene as far as lighting and great angles. It was an easy choice for Andrew. I arrived early to the parking garage to find out that the garage had been sold since that last time I was there in September, 22’. It had become privately owned and no public access. Now this is were I feel like I didn’t do my due diligence and go scout it again before the session, but who would’ve guessed a big change in less than a years time for this awesome spot. Andrew was very disappointed, but I told him no worries, I had a contingency, another awesome garage, but we would have to reschedule since we had to drive there and I hate cutting into client’s time. I told Andrew we could stay here for a short session and get the murals in while we were there, since he had requested that too. He opted for that.
Andrew was a natural in front of the camera. While I pose and prompt my client’s, Andrew did freakishly awesome with his different looks.
Amy was the bomb to provide me with clothing details for Andrew! She kept apologizing for sending all this stuff over to me, but I was like, “THANK YOU!!!” I absolutely love and appreciate when client’s can help with their clothing and props. I can do the same and send the client photos of the location(s), so they can plan themselves. This can help me out and make the session flow a bit easier when there is an idea of what outfit will looks best at each spot.
Choosing your perfect senior portrait LOCATION
RJ - Chaparral High School - Class of 2024
RJ Nicholls - Chaparral High School - Class of 2024
RJ - what a Baller! And just like his dad, Russell! RJ’s dad and I go way back. Russell and I have been friends since high school. We both graduated from Columbine High School - Littleton, Colorado, class of 1993. So, RJ is a pretty special client! RJ is a lot like his dad, always joking around. Russell always had this wit about him and still does. And then there’s the obvious, basketball! If you ask me, RJ definitely gets his good looks and charm from his mom, Lisa! I have known Lisa since college. We all attended Colorado State University.
The Nicholls’ opted for Castle Rock since it was close to Parker and provided a little of everything scenery wise. We had the most perfect day, no clouds! That was perfect considering my OCF (off camera flash) trigger went haywire and had no time to troubleshoot. I have come to rely on my OCF so much, that I got a sense of panic when it’s not available. Going a whole session without it was troubling and I couldn’t stop thinking about it. As of that session, I bring backup for everything, even the trigger. I practically need a U-Haul to schlep all my stuff now. I love my OCF. I love the look OCF gives, and it can cut down on my editing when I use it. I managed the session without it and we went until sunset.
I absolutely enjoyed my time with RJ! He was playful and keep the session light, but I enjoyed it even more having the company of Russell and Lisa! I can’t walk and chew gum at the same time, so holding a conversation is pretty much nil until the end, but they were there and grateful for my time with them. The Nicholls’ are one amazing family!
Choosing your perfect senior portrait location.
Austyn’s senior portraits Grandview High School - Class of 2024
Austyn - The ‘‘Thrill Seeker’. Motocross is his jam. During the consultation, Sheena stated that Austyn wanted to incorporated motocross into his session, but the bike itself wouldn’t be available. She wanted for Austyn, a location that was closer to home with an urban touch and some greenery. I had the perfect spot suggestion, but how to incorporate the motocross apparel into the urban was a thinker for me. The first thing I think of with motocross is DIRT and trails. I didn’t want to just plop Austyn into any scene with his motocross apparel, it would give off a disjointed vibe, so I thought a parking garage would be the next best spot.
I enjoyed Austyn’s chill vibe and nice smile. He was open to suggestion and went the whole session time without giving me the stink eye.
Equipment used
What to wear for senior portrait session for guys.
When selecting an outfit for a high school senior portrait session, it's important to choose clothing that reflects your personal style and makes you feel comfortable and confident. Here are some of my general tips for the guys on what to wear:
Oh, Classic and Timeless: Opt for outfits that have a classic and timeless appeal. This will ensure that your senior portraits won't look dated in the years to come. Solid colors or subtle patterns work well, too. Try to avoid solid white tees.
Dress Shirts: A well-fitted dress shirt can instantly elevate your look. Choose a solid color or a subtle pattern like stripes or checks. Pastel shades are versatile options. Make sure the shirt is ironed and wrinkle-free.
Layering: Consider layering your outfit with a sweater, vest, or blazer. This can add depth and visual interest to your portraits. If you choose to wear a blazer, make sure it fits properly and complements the rest of your attire.
Ties and Bow ties: Depending on your personal style and the overall look you want to achieve, you can add a tie or bow tie to your outfit. They can bring a touch of formality or playfulness to your portraits. Choose colors and patterns that coordinate with your clothing.
Pants: Opt for well-fitted pants that are comfortable to wear. Jeans, khakis, chinos, or dress pants in neutral colors like gray, navy blue, or tan are safe choices. Avoid baggy or overly tight pants.
Shoes: Pay attention to your footwear. Choose dress shoes or clean sneakers that complement your outfit. Avoid worn-out or dirty shoes that could distract from the overall look.
Grooming: Remember to groom yourself before the session. Get a haircut a week or so before the shoot, ensuring you're comfortable with the new style. Clean and trim your nails, and maintain a neat and tidy appearance.
Personal Touch: Consider incorporating an accessory or item that represents your interests or hobbies. It could be a watch, a piece of jewelry, a sports jersey, or anything that adds a personal touch and makes the portraits uniquely yours.
Ultimately, the goal is to choose an outfit that makes you feel confident and showcases your personality. Coordinate your clothing choices with the photographer, as they might have specific recommendations based on the location or style of the shoot.
