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!
Carston - Cherokee Trail High School - Class of 2025
Carston - cruisin’ his session, ROUTE 66 style. Carton’s my first born and it’s hard to believe he’s graduating HS. Wow, class of 2025. Since Carston was born, I have been snapping photos of him and it progressively got worse as he got older and even worse than that after I got my first DSLR camera in 2015. He has been my test subject for studio projects and location scouting. Carston’s very photogenic, so its not unwanted to have him as a subject. He is a guy and I would safely say, 8 out of 10 of my guys don’t care to have their photos taken and it’s mostly for the moms, me being one of those moms..
Carston has been photographed in many Colorado location, so I wasn’t too inspired to pick a spot for his senior portraits in the Denver area or anywhere in Colorado. And Carston was definitely unmotivated.
Carston is into vintage, old things and has quite the camera collection. I came up with the plan for Tulsa, OK (long story as to why I picked Tulsa) for his senior portraits. Carston perked up to that idea.
I compiled my list of must stops a month before our June trip. When we arrived, I was a bit overwhelmed with my list, but in the end we did a majority of our spots. We started out early the first morning to out first spot in downtown Tulsa and oh, my, it was amazing. NO PEEPS. The spot was better in person and it got me going for our next spots. Tulsa has a plethora of these hidden gems for portraits. I found it more appealing than Denver. I wish I could take all my urban/city kids here.
While I don’t disclose my exact spots, I did major research and a lot of Google - earthing to find these locations. I found a 50’s decor wall in the heart of Tulsa. The vintage sign of the Dancing Ballroom, an antique store, gas station and mural wall in Sapulpa. And one of my favorite spots, an old door in downtown Tulsa. This location was perfect for Carston.
In the end, I was so glad we made this trip for Carston. I enjoyed my time with all three of my boys. It was a sightseeing trip, too. Carston is still the worst client ever (put rolling eye and cheesy grin emoji here). Proud Mamma!
This will always be one of my favorites of Carston - on our way to the summit of Humboldt Peak. 09/2020
Mt biggest adventure with Carston - hike to the Summit of Mt St Helens 07/2018
My most epic trip with Carston - Lofoten, Norway - 06/2022
My farthest trip with Carston - Australia 05/2015
Rylee’s senior portraits Rangeview High School - Class of 2024
Rylee - 21st century Mona Lisa, Goddess . . . with a smile! Rylee’s grandma, Bobby contacted me for senior and graduation photos for Rylee. Rylee never got her photos done, so this was a gift for Rylee from grandma.
I spoke with Bobby on the phone for Rylee’s consultation and she said she had no idea where they would like to have her grad/senior portraits done. Being that it was the beginning of May, and the trees are not fully out, I suggested the DU campus. I had done a graduation shoot there before so I was familiar with the grounds. Bobby was so excited for that idea and Rylee, too! And it was fitting, it’s a studious look. If you have never been to the DU campus, It’s gorgeous! I was so excited they were excited for this location.
Bobby asked if I could get a photo of her with Rylee in her cap & gown. And that was an absolute YES! Bobby is like a mother to Rylee even though she is her grandmother. Bobby’s husband, Rylee’s grandfather had passed away a couple of years ago and obviously couldn’t be there for Rylees’ big milestone. Bobby had another ask of me and that was to see if I could put a photo of her husband in with her and Rylee. I was happy to work on this project. But this project need to be done before Rylee’s graduation. Bobby wanted to have this printed for her graduation. This was not too much to ask! It worked out so smoothly and I was told Rylee was in tears when presented with the photo! When my peeps are happy, I am happy! And I am very proud of how that image turned out. Their words, “It’s Like he’s right there.”
Rylee’s pink dress was a welcoming contrast to her black hair. The black dress complimented her hair and made those Nike’s pop. I LOVE black, but I’ll take the color, too!!! Rylee had a tattoo of her dad’s birthday, so I always make sure to get those meaningful aspects into the photo.
Rylee and Bobby were so easy to work with from beginning to end. I had nice chats with Rylee as we went along. I love when clients talk to me and ask me questions too.
Their words, “It’s Like he’s right there.”
Lillian’s senior portraits Grandview High School - Class of 2025
Lillian - what a doll! At Lillian’s consultation, she wanted the natural look for her photos. Early this summer I came across a new location in the Littleton area. I suggested this location to them according to their wants. I love this location. The lighting is in the right direction in relation to the subject with the trees, paths and creek. It will go on to serve me well for a few more client’s seeking the some look this season .
With all that first being said, we didn’t have much sun, in fact we had intermittent light rain half way through the session. It was doable and we kept going. It wasn’t the glow-y look I was hoping for, but Lillian’s photos turned out gorgeous anyway. This is a location that isn’t easy to reschedule, so we went until the rain said “times up.” I loved Lillian’s outfits - the pop of blue made her standout and the green gave it that monochromatic look.
Lillian was a pleasure to work with under the weather circumstances.
Jack senior portraits Eaglecrest High School - class of 2025
Jack - all smiles! At Jack’s consultation, Jack wanted the natural scenery, so we went through my list of locations and Jack and family settled on a location near Castle Rock. This was a new location for me and new locations can be intimidating. This location was more exposed to direct sunlight to the subject, so by scouting it out, I had ideas and my plan on where to place jack. I couldn’t be happier with how Jack’s photos turned out for this new spot. I actually love this spot! It’s perfect if you’re looking for a more rugged look without going far to get it.
The whole family came to Jacks session, even little brother, who was so freaking adorable - talking to me after the session about science stuff. Loved it! I always welcome families. Mom and dad can sometimes get their child to relax a bit by engaging with them, thus capturing those candid smiles.
I absolutely enjoyed my session with Jack! Jack was sweet as pie and engaging! I chatted with mom and dad about recent and upcoming vacations.
Sage - Cherokee Trail High School - class of 2025
Sage - girly time with this young lady! Sage knew exactly what she wanted for her portraits. She wanted the natural, tall grass look. At her consultation, I gave them some suggestion for spots with grass. In the end, she chose her spot in the Castle Rock area.
After a run of guy session (hey, I Love my guys), I got my first girl of the season. Yes, I live vicariously through the moms. I am a boy mom, so I love the hair, shoes and all things girly once in a while. Sage brought a few outfit changes which we captured beautifully. The light was perfect, and not always at this location. We lucked out on this day, so our session went a bit longer than expected.
We had to work around a couple of other session going on, but really, it flowed pretty nicely. Locations look different year to year depending on rain and the lack thereof, so the grass was not what I was hoping for - a little dry, like most places this year. You get what you get.
I absolutely enjoyed my time with Sage and Meredith! Sage was so easy and enjoyable to photograph. They were both so easy to work with from beginning to end.
Dax’s senior portraits Whitesboro High School, Texas - Class of 2025
Dax - make it all high altitude for this kid! A kid coming up from Texas - not just any kid, this kid is my nephew. While I headed south to photograph my son in Tulsa, OK in June, my nephew heads north to have photos done with me in Colorado.
I wanted Dax’s photos to be epic. I had some spots I though might be great to try out on him. While I don’t disclose specific locations, I had a couple of mountain locations that featured a 14er or a lake with some gorgeous mountain views in the background. Ultimately, it came down to what they wanted and they wanted Rocky Mountain National Park and Red Rocks. I get it, coming from Texas, these are iconic and photogenic spots. So let’s kill two birds with one stone. Dax’s stepmom and girlfriend have never seen RMNP and his girlfriend had never been to Colorado, so this makes all the sense to see these two locations and do portraits at the same time.
Well, lucky for them, I have spent a lot of time at RMNP and knew of a few good spots. For our first spot, we headed to Morraine Park and found a great spot with absolutely no peeps, just a lot of flies. Our second spot, we headed to Bear lake, mostly because my sister-in-law and Kendall have not seen RMNP , and I had the reservation to get us there. Our last spot was up to Trail Ridge Road, for the epic 14er (Longs Peak) in the background along with weather and wildfire smoke.
For Dax’s second location, they wanted RR. Since it’s concert season, Red Rocks proper wasn’t an option for portraits, but I know of great spot where you can get the whole venue in the background and that’s where we headed for Dax’s second location.
I am super happy with Dax’s photos, even though it’s not what I envisioned, but its not about my vision, it’s about theirs and I am grateful I was able to photograph my nephew in his dad’s home state and have some family time.
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!
Ethan - Grandview High school - 2025
Ethan’s session - peace and quiet. Ethan wanted to be in nature for his session unlike his brother before him who was all about the city. The locations I use are ever changing and don’t accommodate what the clients is looking for any longer, so I am always scouting out spots even when I was there a year before. So, after much consideration, Ethan chose his special spot. Again, to my surprise the location Ethan picked now requires a reservation which I wasn’t aware of until I pulled up. Luckily I got there way before EARLY and diverted my client’s to my parent’s house where they parked and we were shuttled in by my bother who was visiting at the time. To our advantage, the bike paths were closed off. This made our session flow easily. It’s so nice when you don’t have to constantly look out for bikers. We had this spot to ourselves. Not one other peep came by. It was literally peace and quiet. The only thing we heard was me yelling over the Cherry Creek.
I enjoyed my evening with Ethan. I had a nice chat with mom and dad too! The weather wasn’t perfect, but it all worked out.
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
Kristin’s senior portraits Grandview High School - class of 2024
You had me at HAIR! I am a mom of three boys, so when I have girls to photograph, I photograph vicariously through them. I love all the clothing, shoes and hair. Don’t get me wrong, I love shooting my guys, too, but I love being girly every once in a while. Kristin was very girly, given she plays hard in the dirt, she’s a softball player at Grandview High School, another reason I enjoyed Kristen. We had softball in common.
Jaime (mom) and Kristin came over for their consultation and they knew exactly where they wanted Kristin’s shoot done, downtown Denver. I admit, I hate driving downtown, but I could shoot there for every shoot if I had to. I love the urban look and Denver has a plethora of great spots!
Shoot day- per usual for this summer, an afternoon storm was rolling in. I’ve been trying not to have the knee jerk reaction with the weather like I have had in the past, where I rescheduling a shoot with the sight of a cloud in the sky with fear that it will turn on us. How many times have I rescheduled only to have it clear up and be perfect, many times before. We decided to head for the shoot with the expectation that it will pass and all will be bright and sunny. Well, we managed to park and got out of our cars and then about an hour into our session, it started to pour on use. Luckily we all had our large umbrellas. It’s always such a bummer when this happens, because now we all have to figure out schedules and at this point there’s little room to spare for dates. But between the first and second shoot, I came across another cool photo spot for Kristin to try out on. It was so worth coming back for.
If you would like to book a session Schedule/ Booking
How to choose your perfect Location
Brevin’s senior portrats Cherokee Trail High School - Class of 2024
Alright, alright, alright… you had me at airplanes! When I got Sophia’s booking for Brevin and the initial questionnaire read, “Brevin loves to fly airplanes,” I was hoping this would be another Centennial Airport shoot! Why? Because the Smith Family loves to fly airplanes. I was a United Airlines flight attendant for 9 years, the best job I ever had, aside from being a photographer of course!. My husband is a pilot for United Airlines. So, when I made the call to Sophia for Brevin’s consultation she informed me she wanted one of his 2 shoots at Centennial. Yes! Yes! Yes! Now, when we talked about clothing, I got the initial, “he wants to wear a tee-shirt and pants or shorts.” I kind of cringed, I admit. I met with them at Centennial one afternoon before one of his training flights and had a chat with both on where to do the photo shoot at Centennial and clothing. For me, I always consult on clothing, but ultimately, its up to the client what they want to wear. But I was envisioning something along the lines of a professional attire, because when I see a pilot; especially one that wants to fly professionally, in my opinion, should look the part. So when I showed up to the shoot, I was so pleasantly surprised with Brevin’s outfit. Apparently Brevin’s dad took him shopping. I was ecstatic that they put in the effort. I am sooo stoked with how they turned out. Effort and planning can really make the photos pop.
In the interim of the second shoot, my husband mentioned the United Airlines was holding their Sun-and-fund fundraiser at the Rocky Mountain Airport, I asked if we could invite Brevin and his dad to attend. Since I was in contact with Sophia, she was so excited that we would think of Brevin. Bevin and Shane did meet us there, but I told them they could do their own thing while we did ours. So glad we all had something in common I could share with Brevin. To me, it made this session all that more special!
Choosing your perfect senior portrait location
What to wear for your senior portrait session GUYS and GIRLS
Schedule/ Booking is easy and convenient.
Post shoot photo opts with an F-18. My son happily helped with Brevin’s senior portrait shoot.
Sebastian’s senior portraits Cherokee Trail High School - Class of 2024
Sebastian is going places - France is their destination. Sebastian has plans to go to France for college.
Stephen (father) booked Sebastian’s session and the one I would communicate with through the process. He was such a pleasant person to talk to, just super nice and so easy to communicate with form start to finish. The moms are always the ones that book. Funny, but we could’ve just hopped the fence for a chat. Yeah, I can see their house from my house. I didn’t realize we were so close until they came over for their showing. I suppose when I get a Cherokee Trail High School student that there’s a possibility we are neighbors. Not complaining, they are awesome neighbors to have!
I held the consultation for Sebastian’s senior portrait shoot with Stephen on behalf of Sebastian. Stephen initially booked Sebastian’s shoot for Red Rocks, but I informed him that there was a concert that night and every night through the summer, so I suggested the next best spot that hosted Red Rocks in the background in Morrison, Colorado. They wanted to capture Sebastian in the Colorado scenery since they would be heading to France after high school.
Of course we had to reschedule their session due to weather. It was par for the course this year for weather. Our reschedule session was even threatening, but they were all happy to get in the hour they thought they only had. I told Stephen we had up to 2 hrs of shooting if he wanted to get that other hour in, but he said he was absolutely happy with what he saw in the first hour. We all bolted for out vehicles at that point with lighting around, but I enjoyed my conversion with Sebastian and Stephen. We talked about the concerts we had been to and Sebastian’s future plans.
Choosing your perfect senior portrait location.
Courtney wanted mountains because they resonated with her. She wanted to stay within a short distance from her home. Morrison, Colorado was her spot
Finding the perfect location for your senior portrait can be hectic and stressful. Is it right for you? Picking a location involves a mix of personal preference, logistical considerations, and creative expression. Here are some steps and tips to help you find the right spot:
Reflect on your personality and interests: Choose a location that resonates with your personality, hobbies, or future aspirations. For example, if you’re into skateboarding with cyberpunk look, maybe a skate park might be meaningful to you. Urban vs Natural.
Consider the season and time of day: The time of year and day can dramatically affect the lighting and ambiance of your photos. Most senior portraits are taken in the summer and fall months in Colorado. Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) is often the best time for portraits due to the soft glow, and flattering light. Some locations might be better in the morning depending on the direction of lighting. Mid-day shoots yield harsh and high contrast look.
Scout for Unique Elements: Look for locations with interesting textures, colors, or structures that can add a unique element to your photos. Think about urban areas with graffiti, parks with beautiful foliage, or historic buildings with character.
Think about Accessibility and Permissions: Check to see if the location is accessible and safe. Some places may require permission or permits for photography, especially private properties or certain public areas. Check in advance to avoid any legal issues.
Consult with your photographer: Your photographer likely has experience with various locations and can suggest places that fit your vision. They can also provide insights on lighting, timing, and other technical aspects.
Visit the location in advance: The Photographer will visit the location beforehand at the same time of day you plan to have your shoot. This allows the photographer to envision where and how you'll pose, and also to check for any unexpected issues like construction, crowds or permits.
Consider the background and surroundings: Think about what will be behind you in the photos. A cluttered or distracting background can take away from the main focus, which is you.
Plan for comfort and practicality: Ensure the location is somewhere you'll feel comfortable and engaging in. If you’re a city slicker but chose a barn, maybe you will feel less engaged. Locations are not one size fits all. Also consider if the location is easy for outfit changes, walking and restrooms.
Meaningful locations: Sometimes, the best locations are ones that hold personal significance. Your own backyard might be your spot. If you’re into sports, maybe the high school stadium resonates with you.
Variety: A location with a variety of settings can provide more options for different looks and poses. Consider places with many interesting backdgrounds within walking distance.
By considering these factors and doing a bit of research and planning, you can find a senior portrait location that not only looks great but also holds personal significance to you.
Sebastian wanted Red Rocks Amphitheater, but due to concert season, they were happy with Red Rocks in the background. Morrison, Colorado
Brevin wanted Centennial Airport
Without a doubt, Kristin wanted Downtown Denver.
Katie needed and wanted an equestrian park.
Mikey wanted Urban and a spot for his ride.
Deborah -Grandview High School - Class of 2024
Deborah, she’s got skills! When I held Deborah’s consultation, I spoke with both Charlotte (mom) and Deborah. It’s very nice when I can chat with the one I am supposed to photograph, too and not just mom. I get their perspective and not just the parent. Deborah, without a doubt, wanted her shoot taken in her backyard. I had no problem with that other than I need to stop before hand to scout out their yard. This was considered a new location and I needed to see what I was dealing with in terms of lighting and backgrounds. I got to meet both of them before the shoot which was very nice, too. I gave Deborah the opportunity to show me her outfits she was planning on wearing for her phootshoot. The fact that she was going to be in her own home, she had the ability to swap out outfits more. Deborah really impressed me, she really does have skills, she sewed her own dresses, she plays instruments. You rarely see kids with home ec skills these days. Geez, I can’t even sew. Deborah was able to incorporate her projects into her shoot which I just loved for her.
The day of her shoot, we had impending weather. I live about 10 minutes away, so we decided to go for it. We were about a half an hour in when the weather turned. Deborah looked so disappointed, but I reassured her that we would reschedule, and that I wouldn't short her photo session. She was very relieved and we rescheduled. Her second session went perfectly! NO WIND, perfect lighting and smiles - everything a photographer could ask for!
Deborah was a sweetheart and I admired her humbleness and DIY projects. Both Charlotte and Deborah were such a pleasure to work with!
Choosing your perfect senior portrait location
How to pick out your favorite outfits for your session GIRLS and GUYS
Emerson’s senior portraits - Grandview High School - class of 2024
Run, Emerson, Run! Pace yourself with this delightful young lady . . . a cross country and track athlete at GHS. Emerson opted for a Track and Field session at Legacy Stadium to showcase her sport. Any time an athlete wants to showcase their sport, I try to encourage them to be in their element. If it’s on the court or on the field, let’s show that off. Incorporating a sport with a traditional session can be unnatural looking and tricky. It’s like sticking a cactus on top of a mountain, it can be very weird! So, I was ecstatic when Emerson was willing to take on the ‘Climb the fence’ for her shoot on the track. Turns out, Emerson’s track shoot was scheduled on the same day as a football camp was going on. Katy (mom) and I decided to wait it out and it was so worth the wait and we didn’t have to scale the fence to get in. We had a perfect evening for her shoot. All the football peeps moved out fairly quickly and we had the place to ourselves! We did have to climb the fence on our way out, though.
Emerson’s traditional shoot was held in Evergreen for the natural, mountain scenery look she wanted. With natural settings, I come with a truck load of props for variety. Katy brought Emerson a bouquet of real sunflowers and they added a special touch to her photos. Emerson claimed she wasn’t a hat person, but for sh!Ts and giggles, I had her try one on, and OMG, she looked stunning! The hat even mad her dad (Scott) gasp.
Emerson is genuinely a sweet young lady. I enjoyed my two session with her and getting to know the rest of the Rohrig Family. They were all so patient and helpful during the session. I also love when my client’s can chat with me a bit, too.
Equipment used
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
Courtney - Littleton High School - Class of 2024
Courtney - The Baller! The football kind. Courtney is on the women’s flag football league! Boy, it sure piqued my interest, so I picked Courtney’s brain about the whole process. We had a lot to talk about and she was so willing to talk to me, too. She was so much fun - all smiles even without the camera. She was so ready to get her photos done and she was going with the flow (wind in our case) so easily. We had wind from the southeast, sun from the west and I wanted her to face north so I could get the backdrop from the south, so, it made for an interesting shoot. You would have to be a photographer to understand my conundrum. I always bring along props just in case I need to add something, and in my stash, I had some hats. Courtney claimed she was not a hat person, but I felt we needed something to tame her hair from crossing over her face constantly. She put on a hat and Sara ( mom ) and I just gasped, she looked to freaking cute and it gave here a different look. Some of the shots with her in the hat, were her favorites. It pays to be open minded.
When Sara booked Courney’s session, they initially wanted to go to the Paint Mines for their location, a couple of weeks out, Courney wanted to change her location for somewhere in the mountains because it was more her. Clients always feel bad when they want to change, like it’s a inconvenience for me, but it such a relief and never inconvenient when they switch. Courtney absolutely seemed in here element at our mountain location, she was even willing to walk a short bit so I could perch her on some rocks for the sunset! She even brought along her best bud!
