Ideas for Outdoor Senior Pictures in the East Valley

Something Different for Senior Pictures

If you’re like nearly ALL high school seniors getting ready for senior pictures, you’ve spent a lot of time thinking about fun locations, cute outfits, and perfect hairstyles—plus a million other things. You’ve planned and prepped, and when the big day finally arrives, you’re ready to shine in front of the camera!

Considering Daytime and Nighttime Photos?

If you’re thinking about doing a crossover session that includes both daytime and nighttime images, this is the blog you want to read! I couldn’t think of a better example than Bren’s photo shoot to show you how we can use outfits, lighting, shadow, and texture to completely change the look and feel of your senior pictures.

Meet Bren: Adventurer, Free Spirit, Independent Go-Getter

When I first met Bren and her family, I knew hers would be a photo shoot for the record books. With a sharp eye for style and a defined sense of what she likes (and doesn’t like!), Bren was able to articulate exactly what she was looking for in her senior pictures. I immediately gravitated toward a day-to-night photo shoot so we could show off all the facets of her personality.

We began in the late afternoon, with plenty of sunshine to give us the lighting we needed for some great shots that incorporated sassy shades, sunny smiles, and breezy hair tosses. The day was beautiful, and Bren was able to show off her casual chic fashion sense in billowy tops, a cheeky off-the-shoulder top, and on-trend sunglasses. Pro tip: You can always wear your sunglasses the normal way, or you can spice things up by propping them on your head, twirling them in your hand, or just letting them rest casually beside you for a cool and classy look.

Bren’s easy-going, fun-loving personality made the day a fun event, and nobody even felt tired as the sun started to set!

Of course we had to get the photograph that every graduate and parent loves—the cap and gown picture! Bren rocked this one, too, looking effortlessly glam with nothing but sun and blue skies behind her.

Sweet Treats & a Quick Break

Sometimes I get the opportunity to capture a perfect moment—even when we’re taking a quick break. Hey, when you look this sweet enjoying a piece of chocolate, it’s gotta be captured in a photograph!

There’s a lot to notice in this pic, too. Bren was getting ready for her evening photos, so she changed into a lovely neutral sweater with just the right amount of accessories. The cable-style sweater adds texture to the picture, making minimal accessories the perfect choice. Just a few nice pieces are enough to accent her hair, make-up, and outfit perfectly!

Plus, take a look at those picture-perfect lashes, brows, and nails. This is a great pic to share because it shows exactly why I always tell my clients to focus on the little details, because they really DO show up in your photographs. Of course, edits are possible, but when you show up to your photo shoot with every little detail taken care of, those things add even more to your pictures.

Polka-Dot Perfection for Pictures After Dark

I’ll hand it to Bren…she knows exactly what outfits work for her and how to rock them for the camera. (You’d never guess that this dressed-to-the-nines girl loves four-wheeling in her downtime!)

She cleverly dresses up denim with a pretty polka-dot tie-waist blouse and tops it all off with a belt and floppy hat. Once again, just the right amount of accessories to put the spotlight exactly where it belongs: on Bren. P.S. Don’t miss the back of her adorable sweater…we had to get some shots of that, too!

Light Up the Night: Outside Senior Pictures After Dark

When the sun started to go down, we turned to lighting of a different kind—and boy did it let Bren show off yet another side of herself. Leather jacket and mini in tow, she made a quick change and was ready take advantage of the setting sun, and later, the glow from overhead lighting. We were able to capture a bit of her more serious side. A royal blue top is the perfect complement to make her blonde curls stand out, and it glams up the evening with subtle accents like ruched sleeves and a flattering v-neck fit. Talk about the perfect pairing of denim with a sophisticated top!

Bren is graduating in 2021 and plans to study to become either a chef or a forensic psychologist. The first option sounds delish, and the second sounds seriously intriguing! Whichever she chooses, her determined and adventurous spirit, combined with her smarts and drive for success, will definitely get her there. Can’t wait to see everything this young lady ends up accomplishing!

Ready to Plan Your Senior Session?

Whether you’re a fashionista, a flutist, or a field hockey player, we can plan a daytime shoot or even a day-to-night shoot like Bren’s to capture ALL of the things you love. If you’re ready to start putting your ideas into action, check out my Senior Portrait Experience—and don’t forget to grab your FREE download of the Senior Client Welcome Guide with all the details!

Remember to stay tuned to the latest updates on the Magical Memories by Michelle blog for to see more amazing sessions, get outfit inspiration, and find some fun locations for your senior photoshoot!. Discover fantastic ideas on my Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook profiles, and don’t forget to explore my website to start planning your senior pictures!