There are sessions I photograph and then there are sessions I feel. This one was the latter.

I first met this young woman when she was a toddler. I have photographed her family through the years, watching her grow from a little girl into someone who is heading to USC on a volleyball scholarship — a full semester early, no less. When her mom reached out to book her senior session, I may have done a little happy dance in my kitchen.

Senior sessions are some of my favorite work because they sit right at the intersection of who someone has been and who they are about to become. Additionally, they give families a chance to capture a moment that is genuinely fleeting. High school ends. Kids leave. These photos matter.

So in honor of this incredible senior, here are five things worth incorporating into your own senior session.

5 Things to Incorporate Into Your Senior Photos

A Photo Session That Made Me Cry Happy Tears

1. Bring Something That Tells Your Story

The detail that makes this session unforgettable is that USC flag. It is not just a prop — it is a declaration. She worked for this. She earned this. Furthermore, having something meaningful in your photos transforms them from beautiful portraits into actual storytelling.

Think about what defines this season of your life. A jersey, an instrument, a letter of acceptance, a well-worn pair of cleats. Whatever it is, bring it. You will be so glad you did.

2. Choose a Location That Feels Like You

For this session we headed to the beach, and honestly it could not have been more perfect. The warm golden light, the waves, the wide open feeling of it all — it matched her energy completely. Because she is someone who is about to take on the world, a big expansive backdrop made total sense.

However, the beach is not right for everyone. Some seniors feel most themselves in an urban setting, a flower field, a forest, or even their own backyard. The best senior photos happen in places where you feel comfortable and confident. Therefore, think about where you feel most like yourself and start there.

3. Wear Something You Actually Love

This is not a session to play it safe with your outfit. Senior photos are one of the rare occasions where you get to dress for yourself rather than for a family photo or a school event. As a result, wear the dress that makes you feel amazing. Wear the shoes you have been saving for a special occasion.

For this session the polka dot dress was such a perfect choice — playful, feminine, and completely her. Additionally it photographed beautifully against the orange of the flag and the blue of the ocean. When in doubt, choose an outfit that makes you smile when you put it on.

4. Bring Your Dog

If your family has a dog, bring them. I cannot recommend this enough. There is something about having your pet in your senior photos that adds a layer of joy and personality that is impossible to manufacture. Additionally dogs have a way of making everyone relax, which means the photos end up feeling more natural and genuine as a result.

For this session the family dog showed up wearing a USC bandana and I am not exaggerating when I say it was one of the most adorable things I have ever photographed. Furthermore it tied the whole story together perfectly (the flag, the bandana, the beach, the girl who earned it all.) Every detail meant something.

So if your dog is part of your family story, include them. They will not stand still, they will probably steal the show, and your photos will be so much better because of it.

5. Book Someone Who Knows You

This might be the most important tip of all. There is something genuinely irreplaceable about being photographed by someone who has known you for years. I know this young woman’s laugh. I know how she carries herself. I know her family and what this moment means to all of them.

However, even if you are booking a photographer for the first time, look for someone who takes the time to connect before the session (who asks about you, your interests, and what you want these photos to feel like). A great senior photographer is not just someone who knows how to use a camera. They are someone who knows how to make you feel seen.

A Note from Me

Watching this young woman walk onto that beach with her USC flag and her whole future ahead of her was one of those moments I will carry with me for a long time. Moreover, it reminded me why I do this work.

If you have a senior in your family and you would like to capture this season before it slips away, I would be honored to be your photographer. Serving families throughout Long Beach, Orange County, and the greater Los Angeles area. Reach out here to get started.