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!
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.