Creating with Jessica, BHS Class of 2025, was one of the highlights of this last senior season. Most of that had to do with being able to develop a plan with Jessica and her mom and that really allowed for Jessica's personality to break through the nerves that can so easily cloud into a session and the results really do speak for themselves!
As part of my Ultimate Senior Portrait Experience, I have my seniors complete a questionnaire before we do a short virtual meeting to plan out the details of this session. These simple steps makes a huge difference since we have already begin to form an easy relationship and that is evident in how fun these sessions are and how the final images are so full of personality.
For Jessica's session, we wanted to capture a feminine, playful side at a local garden as well as a more mature collegiate vibe at the local college campus. To showcase her love of books and art, we finished off the session at an eclectic used bookstore. Each space told a different part of her story as she prepares to graduate with the Class of 2025.
A Garden Full of Light: Perfect Showcase of Personality
Being able to create in a local garden was the perfect spot for Jessica to get to jump right in, get used to the camera, and find a groove. And she did just that as we created along the garden paths and amongst the beautiful flowers.
Exploring Campus: The Charm of Collegiate Life
Next, we ventured to a nearby college campus where the architecture and atmosphere brought a fresh energy to the shoot. This location encapsulated the mixed feelings many seniors experience as graduation approaches—both excitement and uncertainty about the next steps.
As we explored the campus, Jessica couldn’t stop smiling. The vibrant energy surrounding us was contagious. I focused on capturing Jessica at her core - that is poised, passionate, kind, sweet, loyal, and intelligent. I love how these images on campus added great variety to her whole gallery.
Aisles of Adventure: The Used Bookstore
We rounded off our session at the cutest, eclectic used bookstore, a perfect choice that resonated deeply with Jessica's love for reading and art. This unique setting was the perfect finale to our session and we had so much fun creating amongst the aisles of books.
Throughout the other two locations, Jessica had already mastered an effortless and authentic presence in front of the camera but something magical happened in and around those books - Jessica really seemed to embrace the moment and together we were able to create these fun images and have a great time doing it!
Letting Her Personality Shine
Throughout the shoot, my goal was to make Jessica feel relaxed, safe to be her authentic self so that her personality would shine through and pop out of the images. Moving from one beautiful location to another, I could see how much she enjoyed each moment. Her laughter and comfort grew throughout the session and you can really see in the images how those nerves and fears that we talked about at the consultation prior to her session had quickly melted away and allowed for her to bloom!
Establishing this easy relationship and comfortable session vibe is crucial for great senior photos. I always encourage seniors to fully embrace their authentic passions and personality—like choosing a favorite outfit or visiting a meaningful spot. In Jessica's case, her peaceful joy and kindness radiates from these images.
Capturing Genuine Moments
If you are planning your senior photos, think about choosing locations that resonate with you, just like Jessica did. Whether it’s a beautiful garden, a bustling college campus, a beloved local bookstore, or something completely different, the right setting can enhance your experience and images. As you prepare for your session, keep in mind that authenticity matters. Your senior photos celebrate who you are and can create lasting memories. Embrace the journey, and let your true self shine through!
As a senior photographer here in Northern Colorado, I get to work with the greatest seniors and their families in Fort Collins, Windsor, Greeley, Loveland, Berthoud, Longmont, Mead, Erie, and surrounding communities. Jessica's senior session is a great example of the incredible sessions I get to be a part of designing and I am already looking forward to celebrating the Class of 2026!
I would love to come alongside as you plan your session to help create the perfect combination of outfits, locations, and the secret sauce: YOU as the senior! Let's make sure your senior portraits are FULL of your personality! You can head over to read more about my Ultimate Senior Portrait Experience and fill out the contact form to get all the details!
Until next time,
-Larissa
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