Unique Locations for Senior Pictures

When it comes to capturing unique and memorable senior pictures, you need to think outside the box and consider locations that may not be the most obvious choices. One such hidden gem is the unassuming ditch off the side of the road. While it may seem like an unconventional spot at first glance, this location can offer a surprisingly gorgeous backdrop for your senior portraits.

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!

This is also a beautiful location senior photos if you love wildflowers. This can be hit or miss of course, depending on the weather, but definitely keep it in mind if you’d love a gorgeous Arizona desert location.

Finding shade in the ditch can be a problem on sunny days. You know, since it’s sunny around 300 day every year in Arizona. But no worries, the ditch works in nearly any kind of light! If you want dramatic edgy light, take a tip from Janaye and grab your shades! Of course, this doesn’t have to be your entire session. Magical Memories by Michelle often uses multiple locations for senior sessions to give you gorgeous gallery of senior portraits.

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 almost 15 years and it’s my job to find beautiful locations that you’ll love! If the desert isn’t your style, check out 10 amazing locations for senior pictures!

And if you’re looking for something different, you might be interested in some of these places.

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

Mesa Professional Photography

Magical Memories by Michelle is a professional senior portrait studio located in Mesa, Arizona. By specializing in senior portraits, I’m able to keep up with current trends that will allow me to create timeless images the parents love as well as trendy images that teens love! Want in? Your first step is to grab this FREE download of the Senior Client Welcome Guide to learn more about the process, pricing, and heirloom artwork.

Remember to follow along on Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook for all the latest updates and trends for senior pictures. Be sure to check the blog weekly for free resources and lots of ideas senior portrait locations.