Photographing McKenna’s senior session at the Riparian Preserve in Gilbert, AZ, was an absolute joy! From the moment we started, I could tell this wasn’t going to be your average senior photo shoot. McKenna is a powerhouse of talent and creativity—a senior at Veritas Preparatory Academy who somehow juggles more activities than I can count. Volleyball, soccer, track, FCA, and founding her school’s Geology Club—how does she find the time? And yet, she still brought her artsy side to the session, which added such a unique touch to her photos.
The Riparian Preserve was the ideal backdrop for McKenna’s session. This gem of a location offers so many different looks, from lush greenery to reflective waters and desert elements. The weather that day gave us a mix of moods—cloudy skies with the promise of a stunning sunset. I’ll admit, I was a little worried about the overcast conditions at first, but as the sun dipped lower, the golden light transformed the entire scene into something magical. It’s always those dreamy sunsets that make Arizona so special. If you’re searching for a Phoenix senior photographer who loves discovering incredible locations like this, you’re in the right place.
Adding Personality to the Photos
One of my favorite parts of working with McKenna was capturing her personality. She’s not just busy with sports and clubs; she’s also deeply creative. The items she brought to her session told me so much about her—especially the dead flowers. Yes, dead flowers! It might sound unusual, but they added an edgy, artsy vibe to her portraits that was absolutely striking. It’s always exciting when seniors bring props or elements that reflect who they are. McKenna’s choices gave us so much to work with and truly made her session stand out.
Balancing It All
McKenna’s life is a beautiful mix of intensity and artistry. Between her leadership roles and athletic commitments, it’s hard to believe she has time to breathe, let alone fit in school. But during our session, I could see how much she genuinely loves all these facets of her life. Whether it was through her confident poses or the way she lit up when talking about her interests, her energy and passion shone through every image.
The Session Highlights
As we moved through the Riparian Preserve, we stopped at several spots that highlighted McKenna’s personality. From softer, contemplative shots among the greenery to bold, dramatic ones with her flowers, every moment felt intentional. Pure magic. As a Phoenix senior photographer, I’m always amazed by how Arizona’s landscapes and light come together to create unforgettable photos.
Looking Ahead
McKenna’s senior session was not just about photos; it was about capturing this incredible moment in her life—a time when she’s balancing so much and still making space for creativity and fun. I’m so excited to see where life takes her. With her drive, talent, and unique perspective, there’s no doubt she’s going to do amazing things.
Congratulations, McKenna! Thank you for allowing me to capture this exciting chapter of your life. If you’re looking for a Phoenix senior photographer who can help tell your story in a unique and personal way, let’s make it happen!
