Senior portraits are a special way to capture the essence of your high school years and celebrate your achievements. One of the most important decisions you'll make when planning your photosession is choosing the right location. When booking with me for a photo session, I do provide a location guide for the area, but below are some tips in choosing the location you like the best for your session.
Consider Your Personality and Style
When choosing a location for your senior session, it's important to consider your personality and style. Are you someone who loves the outdoors and nature? Are you looking for mountain backdrops or would you prefer to be near a body of water? Or do you prefer a more urban and modern setting? Is a studio session your vide or do you prefer being in the historic part of downtown? Think about what makes you feel comfortable and confident, and choose a location that reflects that. You want your senior portraits to showcase who you are and what you love, so don't be afraid to get creative and choose a location that is unique to you. If you're planning on bringing your dog, picking a location that allows dogs is another consideration and something to be mindful of.
Think About the Time of Year and Weather
When choosing a location for your senior session, it's important to consider the time of year and weather conditions. Montana can have very sporadic weather which can change every five minutes. Senior sessions can be an option during every season in Montana, even with the wild weather! If you're planning an outdoor shoot, make sure to choose a location that will be comfortable and safe for you and your photographer. For example, if you're planning a summer shoot, you may want to choose a location with shade or access to water to help you stay cool. You'll want to pack any sunscreen and water you might need during your session as well! On the other hand, if you're planning a winter shoot, you may want to choose a location with indoor options or bring warm clothing and accessories to stay comfortable. My favorite options for winter include handwarmers in your pockets and incorporating a cute hat/scarf into your outfit! Always check the weather forecast before your shoot and have a backup plan with your photographer in case of inclement weather.
Consider the Lighting and Background
When choosing a location for your senior session, it's important to consider the lighting and background. Look for locations with natural light, such as parks or beaches, to create a soft and flattering look. In this blog post, the photos from this senior session we utilized local parks and a frozen lake with a mountain back drop. We opted to have the session at sunset and made the most of the winter golden hour. Avoid locations with harsh or direct sunlight, as this can create unflattering shadows and highlights. Try to plan your session within two hours of sunrise or sunset to get the best lighting possible. Additionally, consider the background of your location. Look for locations with interesting textures or colors that will add depth and visual interest to your photos. Avoid locations with distracting or cluttered backgrounds that may take away from the focus of your portraits. Another factor to consider is time of day and busyness of a location, try to avoid crowds that might impede with the overall backdrop of your photos.
Kalispell Senior Photographer
If you're still on the search for a photographer to document this exciting chapter in your life, feel free to fill out the contact form on my website to hear about my packages and availability. I take a limited number of senior sessions throughout the year, so inquiring early is the smartest way to ensure a spot on my calendar!
