Captured with intention. Styled with purpose. Felt for a lifetime.
The Senior
Guide
for soon to be Seniors& Seniors
Planning your
Timeless. Effortless. Completely you.
Senior
Session
Senior year is more than a milestone—it’s a feeling. A season filled with excitement, change, growth, and all the moments in between that deserve to be remembered.
I’m so honored you’re here.
My goal is to create more than just beautiful images. I want your session to feel effortless, fun, and completely true to who you are right now. The laugh you didn’t plan, the wind in your hair, the way you naturally move and smile—that’s the magic we’re capturing.
This is your story. Let’s tell it beautifully.
- shannon
Everything
You Need To know
Outfits
Session day vibe
07.
08.
how to prepare
06.
What to wear
What Makes your session
different
05.
04.
Senior Experience
03.
location
02.
Book your session
01.
Eastern Shore
Baltimore Museum of Art
Sherwood Gardens
Pier 5
Clipper Mill
Shot Tower Clock
Parking Garage rooftop
Fenwick State Park
Assateague Island
Ocean City Boardwalk/Pier
The Big Chill
Bethany Beach
Selbyville
Baltimore
Location is more than a backdrop—it shapes the feeling of your entire session. Together we’ll choose a place with beautiful light, natural textures, and a setting that complements your story.
Maryland
Your school or Destination location
My go-to Locations
Hampton Mansion
Towson University
Cromwell Valley Park
Towson
Jerusalem Mill
Three Blessings Tree Farm
Oregon Ridge Nature Center
Other
Federal Hill
Canton
Fells Point
Urban
Private Farm
A Vineyard
Kinder Farm Park
Rustic
Downtown Annapolis
Naval Academy
Terrapin Nature Park
Eastport
Annapolis
The Narrows (Kent Island)
Jonas Green State Park
North Shore Park
Beachy Local
Jefferson Memorial
Georgetown
Maryland State House
Capitol Hill
Classic & Elegant
From first inquiry to final gallery, your senior session is designed as a curated, full-service experience—thoughtfully tailored, effortlessly guided, and entirely centered around you.
Once your date is reserved, we begin with a personalized styling and concept process. Every detail is considered—from wardrobe and textures to location and light—creating a cohesive vision that feels both elevated and authentic. Whether you’re drawn to soft coastal tones, sun-drenched fields, or a more modern, editorial aesthetic, your session is intentionally designed to reflect your individuality with a refined, timeless edge.
You’ll be supported throughout the entire process with expert guidance and a trained eye for detail. From selecting the perfect outfit combinations to finalizing locations that photograph beautifully at golden hour, nothing is left to chance. This is a collaborative experience—but one where you can fully relax, knowing every element is being thoughtfully handled.
On the day of your session, you simply arrive and step into the experience. You don’t need to know how to pose. You don’t need to perform. You just need to be present.
With a balance of gentle direction and organic movement, I guide you through each moment in a way that feels natural, never forced. The result is imagery that feels effortless yet intentional—where light, movement, and emotion come together seamlessly.
Think windswept hair, soft laughter, quiet confidence, and the kind of in-between moments that can’t be staged—but can be beautifully captured.
Every image is composed with precision and edited with a signature, true-to-tone finish—soft, luminous, and timeless. The final gallery is not simply a collection of photographs, but a carefully curated story—one that reflects not just how you looked in this season, but how it felt.
Effortless moments. Thoughtfully curated. Beautifully preserved.
The Senior
experience
Every season brings its own kind of magic—and its own opportunities for storytelling. The key to a beautiful, elevated senior session is embracing what each season naturally offers, rather than resisting it. Light, color, and atmosphere shift throughout the year, and when you lean into that, your photos feel effortless, intentional, and timeless.
Flexibility is key. Weather, light, and energy can change quickly, so the best sessions happen when you release perfection and focus on movement, personality, and presence.
Finally, comfort is everything. Choosing outfits, props, and timing that align with the season will make your session feel relaxed and enjoyable. When you’re comfortable, confident, and present, the most meaningful, authentic images are created.
Seasonally
Things to Keep In mind
what Season is right for you?
Why it’s amazing: Quiet, serene landscapes and diffused light create a minimalist, high-end editorial look. Snow, bare branches, or soft muted tones highlight your personality front and center.
Style + Outfit Tips: Cozy layers, jackets, scarves, and textured knits photograph beautifully. Pops of color or metallics stand out against neutral or snowy backgrounds. Soft layering allows for multiple looks in one session without compromising comfort.
Sports, Milestones & Props:
Winter sports uniforms and props look striking against muted, neutral landscapes. College acceptance or team pride photos (jerseys, sweatshirts) work well with cozy seasonal styling. Even casual hobbies or instruments pop beautifully in winter light.
Winter
Soft, cozy, and full of quiet magic
on to the next
Lean into the fresh start — it’s where the beauty blooms
Soft pastels, blooming flowers, and gentle, diffused light create a dreamy, editorial aesthetic. The freshness in the air adds a natural glow to your skin and lightness to your movement.
Style + Outfit Tips: Flowing dresses, light layers, and airy textures photograph beautifully. Neutral tones and soft colors look luminous in spring light. Golden hour evenings are long and soft—perfect for romantic, editorial-style images.
Sports, Milestones & Props: This is the Cap and gown season and perfect way to document this time. Sports or club photos work beautifully outdoors in soft spring light. Instruments, art supplies, or hobby-related props feel natural and seasonal.
Fresh, light, and full of new beginnings
Spring
on to the next
Hold onto the warmth — even as everything begins to change
Vibrant colors, long golden light, and warm skies create a bright, editorial feel. Beaches, parks, and open fields provide dynamic and playful backdrops.
Style + Outfit Tips:
Lightweight, breathable fabrics keep you comfortable.
Bold colors and textures photograph beautifully in sunlight and add a fun pop of color. Neutrals are classic and perfect.
Bring layers for versatility (denim jackets, flowy wraps, hats, or accessories).
Sports, Milestones & Props:
Outdoor sports and uniforms come alive in summer light.
Props like balls, bats, or dance equipment add movement and energy.
Cap and gown sessions are less common in summer, but hobby/achievement shots thrive outdoors.
Summer
Golden days. Endless light. Effortless style
on to the next
Crisp air. Golden light. Timeless memories
Crisp air, rich earthy tones, and golden light create warm, cinematic, editorial-style images. Fallen leaves, textured layers, and natural landscapes elevate every frame.
Style + Outfit Tips: Sweaters, scarves, and layered textures photograph beautifully. Earth tones, corduroy, boots and suede create depth and visual interest. Golden hour in fall casts a warm, soft glow ideal for editorial shots.
Sports, Milestones & Props:
Football, soccer, cross country, cheer or other seasonal sports uniforms work perfectly with the autumn backdrop. Props for theater, music, or art stand out against rich, muted colors.
Fallen leaves, layered textures, unforgettable images.
Fall
Outfits set the tone for your session and help tell your story in a timeless, editorial way. Choose pieces that reflect your personality, complement the location and season, and feel effortless to wear. Layers, textures, and thoughtfully selected accessories add depth and movement, while multiple looks—from casual to formal to milestone or hobby-focused—allow your personality to shine. Above all, comfort and confidence are key; when you feel amazing in what you’re wearing, it shows in every frame.
Start with your vision: Consider the locations, seasons, and the overall aesthetic you love. Soft, flowing dresses and textured layers create movement and lightness, while bold colors and structured pieces make a confident, editorial statement. Think about how each outfit complements the scenery, your personal style, and the other looks you plan to wear during the session.
Plan multiple looks: Most seniors opt for at least two to three outfits to showcase different sides of their personality. Consider a casual everyday outfit, a more polished or formal look, and a milestone or hobby-focused outfit (like sports uniforms, cap & gown, or college apparel).
Pro tip: Lay all your outfits and accessories out together before your session to see how they complement each other. Planning ahead saves time and ensures each look tells a distinct, intentional part of your story.
Style with intention, comfort, and confidence
Choosing OUtfits
Your session is about you, and your passions, achievements, and story are part of that. Sports, clubs, arts, and hobbies can add movement, energy, and individuality to your images. Limit props to those that feel meaningful.
A few ideas for incorporating these:
Uniforms & gear: Bring your full outfit, equipment, or accessories. Action shots or posed moments with props add personality and context.
Milestone moments: Cap and gown for spring graduation portraits.
College gear once you know your next chapter—college sweatshirt or hat shots make a fun “future-forward” addition.
Hobbies & passions: Music, theater, art, or other extracurriculars bring a personal and meaningful touch.
sports & Extracurriculars
Light is everything when it comes to photography—it shapes the mood, the tones, and the overall feel of your images. Throughout the day, light shifts in both intensity and color, creating completely different aesthetics. Understanding these changes allows us to choose a time that best reflects your vision, whether that’s soft and romantic, bright and bold, or calm and cinematic. Sunlight versus overcast skies also plays a beautiful role in the final outcome. While we can’t control the weather, we can thoughtfully choose a time and approach that aligns with the look you love—and trust the process from there.
Soft, quiet, and beautifully understated, sunrise offers some of the most delicate light of the day. The tones are cool and airy, creating a peaceful, almost ethereal feel. As the sun rises we can get more of a warmer tone as well and depending on the location you can get photos in open shade or take a few in the harsh sun. It’s perfect for a more serene, minimal, and editorial look—plus, locations tend to be less crowded.
Sunset is the most sought-after time for a reason. The light is warm, glowing, and incredibly flattering, wrapping everything in soft golden tones. This is where you get that dreamy, sun-kissed look with natural movement and a romantic, timeless feel.
We can also incorporate sun flare and a variety of artistic techniques, adding depth, warmth, and an editorial finish to your images. We can wait until the light begins to go down for more even light and get that blue hour as well. So many options and the light lingers longer.
Midday light is bright, direct, and full of contrast, creating a bold and vibrant aesthetic. While it can be more intense, it works beautifully for a more editorial, high-fashion look with sharp shadows and clean lines. With the right styling and direction, it can feel modern, confident, and striking.
Just after the sun sets, blue hour brings a cooler, moodier tone to your images. The light is soft and diffused with subtle blue hues, creating a calm, cinematic atmosphere. It’s perfect for a unique, artistic finish to your session and adds depth and variety to your gallery. Depending on the location and sunset that evening we could have more pink tones, dark tones or just cooler tones with blue hour.
Open shade offers soft, even light without the harshness of direct sun, creating a clean and naturally flattering look. Skin tones appear smooth and true-to-life, making it ideal for timeless, classic portraits. It’s a beautiful choice when you want a balanced, effortless feel with subtle depth and a refined finish.
If this look appeals to you—or works best with your schedule— we’ll choose a location that provides a variety of open-shade options. Keep in mind, depending on the location, the quality and availability of open shade can vary throughout the day, so timing plays an important role in achieving the perfect light.
The Parent Corner
Elevating their experience, preserving their story
Senior sessions are about celebrating your teen’s achievements, personality, and unique style—and your support plays a big role in making the experience relaxed and memorable. As a parent, you help set the tone: encouraging confidence, helping with outfits, and letting your teen bring their passions and hobbies to life. Your presence should be empowering, not overwhelming—giving them space to shine while being there for guidance if needed.
Tips for Parents: Let your teen lead with their choices for outfits, locations, and props.
Prepare logistics: Help with outfit organization, transportation, and timing.
Encourage confidence: Remind them that their personality is the best part of every photo—genuine smiles and natural moments matter most.
Props & Milestones: Assist in gathering meaningful items like sports equipment, instruments, cap & gown, or college gear or even their favorite stuffy. Yes we can incorporate anything from childhood to their future college.
Why it matters: Your teen will feel more relaxed and authentic in front of the camera when they know you support their vision and are there. The result? Timeless, confident, and beautiful images that reflect who they truly are in this once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Choose your preferred time of day
Choose location
Choose outfits
Consider accessories
Hair and Makeup
Cap and Gown
Casual Outfit
Dressy Outfit
Uniform
College Tee shirt or Jersey/Pendant flag
Personal mementos or meaningful items
Relax and let's have fun
Senior Checklist
Planning ahead makes your senior session seamless, stress-free, and truly enjoyable. This checklist is designed to help you feel confident and prepared—so you can focus on having fun and being yourself in front of the camera. From outfits and accessories to props and hair/makeup, each item contributes to creating images that are polished, timeless, and uniquely you.
The
Checklist
Inclement Weather
what to do if it rains
If the weather doesn’t cooperate, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. I keep a close eye on the forecast and will be in touch if anything looks off.
Light rain or overcast skies can still be beautiful, but if conditions aren’t ideal, we’ll simply reschedule. I always build in flexibility and backup plans so your session stays stress-free. No matter what, we’ll make sure your experience feels easy, enjoyable, and worth it. For beach sessions I try to book a rain date at time of booking.
Yes, but they are best for full sessions. Mini sessions move quickly so outfit changes are tough. Generally for those changing outfits they want to go with a casual option and an dressier option.
can we have an outfit change?
I keep galleries up for 6 months. Please make sure you download them, back them up on a cloud server or on an external hard drive.
How long will I have access to the images?
It depends on what package you choose. You can always upgrade to more images to add to your gallery after viewing the proof gallery.
how many photos will we get back?
Yes! I can be as involved as you would like. I can even make you a few style boards and send you links to clothing items based on what we discuss.
WIll you help me choose outfits for my session?
YES! And please tag me! I love when clients share their images. I do ask though that you do not share screen shots of images. It just lowers the quality of the overall image and social media tons to lower it as is.
Can I share the images on social media?
You will receive a proof gallery within a week of your session date. Once you choose the images you want for your final gallery I will edit each one by hand and that takes two to three weeks.
When will i receive my images?
frequently
asked
questions
click to send me an email
I truly believe that every session is more than just pictures—it’s a memory, a feeling, a moment in time that you’ll treasure forever. Whether it’s capturing the playful giggles of your kids, the love shared in a family hug, or the quiet, tender moments in between, I am here to make your experience effortless, joyful, and unforgettable.
From the planning stages to the final images, I guide you through every step so you can relax, be yourselves, and enjoy the experience. My goal is to not only create beautiful photos but also to create an experience that feels personal, warm, and just a little bit magical.
Booking a session isn’t just about scheduling a time—it’s about capturing a piece of your story that you’ll look back on with a smile for years to come. I can’t wait to meet you and start creating memories together!