Franklin High School class of 2024 | Ari

May 21

Written By Abbie

I keep saying that these kids are special, but it’s only because it’s true. One of the reasons I love photographing high school seniors (and people in general) is that they are each so unique and extraordinary in their own way. I love getting to know them, learning about their personalities, likes, dislikes, what makes them tick.

What I learn about my seniors is most definitely used for their portraits.... or not. Follow me, here.

One of my seniors played tennis but doesn’t any longer. So we opted to NOT feature tennis in her photos. One of my seniors has a passion for reading and loves the Harry Potter series. So we for sure included a set of fun photos with her copies of the books. One of my seniors knows what industry, without a doubt, he will be entering upon graduation. My response: we must photograph this!

But sometimes when I explain this concept, my clients don’t QUITE follow me. Ari and his mom told me he will be hired right out of school to repair cars at the place he’s been interning…. and I said, well, let’s photograph him in action! They were shocked. And delighted! But they still didn’t quite get it… I could picture it in my mind’s eye, how cool these shots would be, but they were still pretty much picturing those “standard” pose-and-smile portraits.

Well. Needless to say, Ari and his mom were OVERJOYED and in a little bit of disbelief when I showed them his photos. First of all, we had a blast photographing him in is LITERAL happy place. Second, the images went beyond their expectations, capturing the kid they KNEW, not just a smiling face.

This is my job. I love it.

And…

This is Ari.

NAME
Ari

SCHOOL
Franklin High School

SESSION DATE
September 21, 2023

SESSION LOCATION
his dad’s garage and a neighbor’s car “cemetery”

High school senior portraits are a chance to capture who you are at this pivotal moment in your life. Why wouldn’t you including your hobbies, sports, interests, or future professions in your photos and make them more meaningful?

5 TIPS TO SHOWCASE YOUR PASSIONS IN YOUR SENIOR PORTRAITS

1. HOBBIES

Bring Props: Bring items that represent your hobby, like musical instruments, art supplies, or books. Remember, it doesn’t mean they will take away from YOU, just the opposite, they will ACCENTUATE YOU.
Choose Relevant Locations: Select locations that relate to your hobby, such as a studio for artists or a greenhouse for nature lovers. I’ve photographed seniors on stages, baseball diamonds, football fields, swimming pools and more.

2. SPORTS

Wear Your Gear: Don your sports uniform and bring along your gear for some of your shots. Not all of them, don’t worry. This is only one part of your session.
Action Shots: Create amazing, dynamic photos of you in action. Picture kicking a soccer ball or doing a cheerleading stunt.

3. OTHER INTERESTS

Symbolic Items: Use items that reflect your interests, like a camera for photography enthusiasts or a laptop for tech lovers. Maybe you’re an avid writer - bring your journal and favorite pen. (I won’t photograph your writing, promise! Just the ACT of doing it.)
Pick the Right Spot: Choose settings that reflect your interests, such as a library for bookworms or a park for nature enthusiasts.

4. FUTURE PROFESSIONS

Work in Your Environment: Let’s go to an environment related to your future career. Or we can do some cool, fashion-forward shots in a studio setting, truly leaving the focus on YOU.
Tools of the Trade: Incorporate tools or equipment from your future profession, like stethoscopes, wrenches, or baking utensils.

5. TELL YOUR STORY

Personalize Your Session: Let’s work together to brainstorm ideas that best represent who you are and what you love. Between our Pre-Session Consultation and the questionnaires that I’ll send, we will good to go.
Stay Authentic: Be yourself and let your passions shine through. These photos are YOUR STORY and I want your friends and family who view them to think of YOU. The biggest compliment I can get is hearing someone say, “these photos are so YOU!” That means they are real and authentic and true to who you are.

If you're like Ari, featured today, who is going into car repair, showcasing your passion can be incredibly powerful. His photos capture him working on a car in a repair shop, wearing his work clothes (ok, maybe a little cleaner than usual for the sake of the photos) and using his hands. This not only highlights his future profession but also tells a story about his journey and interests.

Ready to capture your story? Book your session today and let's create something amazing!

Book your Class of 2025 senior photos TODAY! Let’s work together to get your preferred date, favorite location and a set of senior photos that you truly love.

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