When you think of senior photos, you might picture the classic green landscapes or familiar city spots. But for this session, I got to step outside the norm and create something unique in the heart of Papago Park in Phoenix, AZ. This wasn’t your typical high school senior shoot. This young woman, a freshman at Arizona State University, had just moved to Phoenix in August from Oregon. She decided to forgo her senior photos back home to capture her moment in the Arizona desert, a dream she had held onto since her senior year.
When she first reached out, she sent me a few inspiration photos that made her vision crystal clear—golden hour lighting, the warm tones of the desert, and intimate close-ups that really captured her personality. She wanted to focus more on herself than the background, which challenged me because I naturally gravitate towards showcasing stunning views and full-body shots that highlight outfits and scenery.
We kicked off the session with four outfit changes planned, and even though we didn’t have time to explore the park on foot, we made the most of our time by hopping in the car and driving to different spots within Papago Park. However, the first half hour of our shoot presented a different kind of challenge: nerves. She was a bit hesitant, and I could tell she was second-guessing herself. This is where my job as a photographer goes beyond just clicking the shutter—I needed to help her feel comfortable and confident.
I had her pull out her phone, and we played some of her favorite music. Slowly but surely, the nerves started to fade, and her true personality began to shine through. Sometimes, that’s all it takes: a little patience, the right playlist, and the willingness to give someone the space to find their rhythm in front of the camera.
As a photographer, I always want to make sure we get the shots we envisioned, and this session was no exception. I ended up extending our time together because I knew we had to capture each outfit and those beautiful close-ups she was looking for. It was about creating the images she’d dreamed of, even if it meant adjusting my usual style.
This session made me realize that while I have a love for wide shots that embrace the full beauty of Papago Park, there’s something truly special about close-ups. They pull you into the moment, focusing solely on the subject and their expressions. In the end, I loved the challenge this session brought. It was a great reminder that every client’s vision is unique, and embracing that can lead to some truly divine results.
If you’re looking for senior photos that capture your style in a stunning location like Papago Park in Phoenix, AZ, let’s chat! I love creating images that tell your story, whether it’s against the iconic desert backdrop or up close and personal, just like this incredible session.
