Show of hands. How many can remember those typical, must have senior photos? Reminisce with me for a minute. We could go way back and talk about the wicker chair option. Or maybe the fake, outdoor country scene, where one would squat down on the hay bale for a more “natural” look. Or better yet, the giant numbers representing your graduating year. Yes! The letter jacket, championship ring, white backdrop, large numbers. Classic. Those were the days and images, my friends, that make us all feel just a little better about growing older, don’t they?
Senior photos should be a realistic, fun experience!
Although, I am not naive to think that the youth of today will be mocking many current trends in the future, I choose to believe that we have come a long way in capturing our high school seniors with a bit more authenticity. We begin this change with ACTUAL, natural surroundings and then showcase every senior’s unique style and personality. From pretty dresses to skinnys to jerseys and footballs, my goal is to make every senior photography experience one that will be remembered fondly. First step? One must think outside the box. Today, we will break this concept down to the beloved athletic photo.
Allow your photographer to capture your athlete
If you have a child in football, basketball, or any sport for that matter, or a child who dances or rides horses, chances are you desire quality pictures that showcase their love during this time in their life. I get it, I do! All I ask, and what most photographers would request, is to allow us to put a little spin on that traditional studio shot. You know what I’m talking about, don’t you? The one with your child in the middle of an array of medals and jerseys surrounding him/her. I’m not mocking you! Really! Just know that you could have more. And that athletic picture you desire for documentation could actually end up being a treasured image to be displayed.
To help put a visual to this whole concept, I thought I’d post a few shots that I have taken over the years.
First up: FOOTBALL! I did luck out here with a sweet, new High School stadium paired with a good looking football player. I always start with one pulled back and wide with an off center composition to show off the athlete in his environment. Then, I come in close for a few headshots. In this one, I wanted to highlight his championship ring. Something we are all very proud of in these parts. 😉
Dance is another big deal around here. With this dancer’s edgy look, I was over the moon about capturing her look in a tutu, inside the studio.
I also love to take dancers outside. Here, we are at an old train station nearby.
Lucky for me, I’ve done quite a few sessions that included horses! I met this senior at the fairgrounds where we took her horse into the ring for some authentic interaction between her and her beautiful horse.
Typically, I like to do basketball shots in a gym or outdoor court, but I liked how the mood of this one turned out in studio.
I’ll end with a few gorgeous swimmers. We have an awesome swim program in my town so I’m always excited to showcase our swimmers in a unique way. First, a studio shot. Blue eyes, dark hair, orange coat! Love!
This picture was taken at our high school pool. It turned out to be a personal favorite for this gal.
It’s true! Sports pictures CAN be so fun and unique! Gone with the old and in with the new! Jump on Pinterest or look through magazines for a little inspiration. It just makes your session that more meaningful.
Get creative and remember to BEA YOU!
Molly
