Unique Locations for Senior Pictures

What’s the most asked question when it comes to senior portraits? The answer: What locations are best? Well, it turns out that often the best locations for senior pictures might not be in places you’d consider picture worthy. For years, I saw things just like you. My mindset was going to parks and lakes because that’s what everyone else was doing. It wasn’t until I became a professional photographer that I started to learn how equipment, lighting, and creativity can really change the way an area looks! I’ll often call them “un-locations” because they aren’t the spots people normally choose. If I left it up to my clients, nearly ever session would be shot at the Desert Botanical Gardens, Freestone Park, or the Riparian Preserve in Gilbert. The problem? EVERYONE goes there! So think outside the box with me for a moment and see what we can do in spots that might be within a mile of your home. 

A Ditch in the Desert

If you’ve checked out my website or had a consultation, chances are you’ve seen some incredible images and heard me talk about “the ditch.” It’s really nothing special, but for people who live in the East Valley, it’s just convenient. During one of my recent photo shoots at this unique location, I took a quick snap off the side of the road. Yes, there are homes, poles, and wires everywhere, but don’t let this fool you! 

Same spot, with a variety of looks

The last thing you want for your senior pictures is to have images that look like everyone else’s, right? You also want a variety of different images. The ditch is definitely a winner when you’re looking for a beautiful “non-desert” location. Each of these images below were taken in the ditch with all the houses on one side and a major road on the other, but can you tell? 

You can shoot a good closeup in just about any location with good light. In this image, I had mom hold a small piece of a plant in front of my lens to get this picture.

 Another great way to make these types of locations portrait worthy is to use the proper equipment. I’ll often choose my Canon 70-200 2.8L in order to bring the focus more on my subject and less on the background. Getting that beautiful “blurry background” is a favorite for my clients!

Finding shade in the ditch can be a problem on sunny days. You know, since it’s sunny almost every day in Arizona. But no worries, the ditch works in nearly any kind of light! If you want that edgy light, take a tip from Janaye and grab your shades!

Great Location for Cap & Gown Photos

Cap & gown photos for graduation? Of course!! And this is the perfect out-of-the-way location! Three different high school senior girls with completely different styles, yet all timeless and gorgeous. Any mom would LOVE to have graduation pictures like these!

So when I tell you not to stress about locations…please don’t stress about locations! I’ve been a professional photographer for over 13 years and it’s my job to find beautiful locations that you’ll love! If the desert isn’t your style, check out some of these amazing locations for senior pictures!

Take Senior Pictures at Your High School
50’s Diner for Senior Photo Shoot
Senior Pictures by the Water
Senior Pictures in Downtown Phoenix
Graduation Photos in Gilbert
Senior Portrait Session in Scottsdale