Desert Location for Senior Pictures
There’s something about nature that tends to bring out the beauty deep within every one of us. Maybe it’s the natural light or the feeling of being at “home” or at peace. Either way – sun, rain, or storm – the outdoors have a habit of bringing us out of our shells. I absolutely LOVE shooting outdoors, it’s one of the best parts of being a photographer…unless its 110 degrees out and then none of us want to be out taking pictures. When I met Caroline she had just one request. She loves the desert and wanted it to be one of her locations. Hmmm, we live in Arizona so I’m pretty sure we can accommodate that!
Natural Light in the Desert
When she expressed interest in using the desert, I knew we were guaranteed a fabulous shoot! But I’m not sure Caroline even needed the Arizona sun; her gorgeous smile brightened every picture regardless of light or setting. In fact, once we got started she was so comfortable, all I did was give her a few directions and then just click, click, click! That smile is everything!!!
Senior Photos at the Lake
Sticking to the shoot’s open air and fresh feel, Caroline opted to include water and greenery for her portrait session. Amazingly, despite the rumors about deserts, we were able to find plenty of beautiful trees, shrubs, and grassy patches in the East Valley. We even came upon a rock that looked as though it has been placed with the sole purpose of being included in our shoot! This simple green top has just a bit of texture and is a favorite choice from the style closet. Caroline had plenty of gorgeous outfits, but this green top just fit beautifully into the gorgeous background!
Bring Your Personailty…Please!!
It’s quite evident in every picture anyhow that Caroline made each setting her own. Her laid-back, caring, and kind personality is apparent in real life, but it simply radiates out of every photo! With those gorgeous golden curls, we definitely had to include a classic hair flip. A new addition to the style closet last spring was this beautiful floral romper. It has quickly become a favorite for the ladies and that blue really brought out Caroline’s eyes!
In her spare time, Caroline likes to dabble in baking, gaming, and of course – watching Netflix.
More From the Style Closet
We had a lot of fun trying to find good spots and pick out natural poses; however, when I offered up a fashionable hat from my ‘Style Closet,’ I wasn’t fully expecting her to pick one. Caroline wasn’t 100% sure about his choice of hats, but I asked her to trust me. After all, it’s digital…if it doesn’t look good we’ll simply delete it. And I know most of don’t wear hats regularly, and putting one on for a picture can feel funny, but it always works! She wore it like a pro and it ended up being one of her favorite senior pictures!
A Bright Future Ahead
After graduating from Desert Vista High School, it’s clear that Caroline is following her dreams. Her major is in Early Childhood Development, and there’s no doubt that her bright, intelligent, and caring soul is the perfect mix to bring her success!
2020 was a tough year for everyone—especially those graduating and setting off on a new life journey. Seeing Caroline’s beaming smile, positivity, and bravery in the face of everything was inspirational. This darling image below even became the cover of her Senior Keepsake Book!
Perhaps simply for memories or as proof that she made it through this crazy year, Caroline ordered a lovely keepsake book to have all of her best images in one place as well as these beautiful custom graduation announcements. I hope she loves her photos just as much as I loved taking them!
Must-haves for Outdoor Photo Shoots
You might be wondering exactly what you should bring to an outdoor senior photo shoot. It’s a good question, so I’ve listed a few useful recommendations below.
- Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen! Shoots can be longer than expected, so it’s always have a good to have some in your bag.
- A water bottle or two just to stay hydrated, so be sure to grab that Hydro!
- A hat – yes, I can supply them, but you’re always welcome to bring your own.
- Sunglasses. Hey, they’re fun, fashionable, AND keep you from squinting in the harsh Arizona sun!
Best Locations for Senior Pictures
If you’re looking for beautiful desert locations for your photo shoot, you might enjoy some of these blog posts!
Beautiful pics of a gorgeous Desert Vista High School senior!
Thanks for you sweet comments Dana!
I’m loving the different locations that you used. Such a beautiful senior, I am absolutely loving your blog posts.
I’m so glad you love the posts Shunta! I love sharing all my senior sessions!
Love that you present both the photographs and how your senior clients and their parents can truly enjoy the images through beautiful products.
Everyone is so used to seeing digital images, they often don’t even think about the other possibilities! They know USBs and Shutterfly, and that’s about it. So when you can show them gorgeous image boxes, silk portraits, storyboards, and announcements, even the seniors get excited!
I love her navy romper. I’m ready for warm weather again for High School Senior pictures! Such a beautiful session with this young lady!
The rompers are so popular, I have 3 different designs in my style closet and tons of other colors and styles too! The girls love them and they’re so cute and carefree!
I truly love the natural light in your senior desert photos. That glow on senior’s skin is gorgeous! What an incredible option for your seniors.
Hey Andrea! I’m glad you enjoyed these! While I do use artificial light when needed, I do really love the natural light for this location.
Senior pictures in the desert!?! Yes, please! These are beautiful! It’s so neat to see the different options around the US that photographer’s have to take senior photos. I love the must-have list for outdoor senior photos you included at the end too!
Hey Brandi! I agree, it’s fun to see what is “normal” for senior picture locations around the country. Everything here in Ahwatukee is desert! I get so envious of areas with pretty trees, beaches, and mountains, but our desert is very pretty too!