1. A Personalized Consultation to Get to Know Your Senior
Before any session, I offer a consultation with each high school senior to understand their unique personality, style, and interests. This lets me tailor every detail of the portrait experience to reflect who they really are. From learning about their favorite pastimes to exploring their ideal settings for a shoot, I make sure each session feels authentic and comfortable. Whether they’re into surfing, hiking, or spending time in the heart of the city, we choose a location in San Diego that means something to them.
2. Choosing Meaningful Locations in San Diego
Unlike traditional studio settings, my sessions offer personalized location choices that make each senior portrait unique. From scenic San Diego beaches and lush parks to cozy coffee shops and urban backdrops, each location tells part of their story. When seniors are in a place that feels familiar and significant to them, they can relax and let their personalities shine through. San Diego offers countless beautiful backdrops that can make senior portraits truly unforgettable.
3. Style Guidance and Outfit Selection for a Variety of Looks
Style plays a huge role in expressing personality. For senior portraits, I encourage teens to bring multiple outfits to represent different sides of their style—casual looks, formal options, or something unique and creative. Each look contributes to a well-rounded portrait gallery that genuinely reflects their personality. I offer guidance on clothing choices to ensure that each outfit enhances their best features and helps them feel comfortable and confident in front of the camer
4. Using Personal Props to Tell Their Story
Props are a fantastic way to personalize senior portraits, bringing in elements of your teen’s life and interests. I encourage seniors to bring items that reflect their hobbies or passions, like a letterman’s jacket, a favorite book, sports equipment, musical instruments, or even their car. These personal touches make the portraits truly special and meaningful. By including these unique elements, your teen feels more connected to the photos, which capture this exciting chapter of their life.
5. Capturing Candid, Unplanned Moments for Genuine Joy
One of the biggest advantages of a custom portrait session over a studio session is the freedom for spontaneity. During the session, I encourage candid moments that often lead to natural smiles and genuine joy—qualities that bring out the best in each senior and are often missing from rigid studio portraits. These unplanned shots frequently become favorites, as they capture the true essence of your teen’s personality.
