Waukesha North class of 2024 | Emmerson
Here is another fantastic high school senior who I got the opportunity to work with. Emmerson is a very independent young woman and I was really impressed with her will and drive. This one will go far, you just watch.
World, this is Emmerson.
NAME
Emmerson
SCHOOL
Waukesha North High School
SESSION DATE
September 30, 2023
SESSION LOCATION
Stories Framed Studio + Penny Bridge
I loved Emmerson’s sunset photos at Penny Bridge - we carefully planned our time so when we arrived it would be PERFECT light for her photos. Guess what? It worked!
Are you wondering what time to schedule your senior photos? Here are some tips, pros and cons for each time of the day.
MORNING/SUNRISE
PROS: Soft, golden light with long shadows, creating a warm and ethereal atmosphere. Later, the light runs blue and then opens up to strong, warm sunlight. In the early morning, you can bet there are fewer people around. Also, it will be much cooler in the morning (which can be nice during the summer).
CONS: Name a senior in high school who likes waking up with the sun. (Exactly my point! lol) Also, if it’s cloudy, all bets are off for this sunrise vision we have in our minds.
MY TAKE: I’d lean toward not getting out of the bed at the literal “crack of dawn” if we can help it. Plus, I can re-create the early morning look with my own lighting. Win-win!
MID-DAY
PROS: Bright, hard lighting. Good for capturing vibrant colors and details in the surroundings. Bright light is not a concern if we are in a forest or somewhere with substantial tree cover and shade.
CONS: Harsh overhead sunlight can create strong shadows (think raccoon eyes!) and lead to squinting, in or out of the shade.
MY TAKE: I would rather avoid mid-day but again, if we are in a heavily shaded area, it’s no problem. If it’s open shade, your eyes still may be squinting from the bright light. On the other hand, this bright, hard light can be a great stylistic choice. Think big floppy hat, drastic artsy shadows, or sunglasses. Also, if I have an assistant on hand, we can use a scrim to block the strong light.
AFTERNOON/GOLDEN HOUR
PROS: Golden Hour IS the ticket. The light is soft, warm, and flattering. Longer shadows add depth and interest to photos. Beautiful, colorful skies during sunset add to amazing texture to photographs.
CONS: Most people know this is the best time, so many locations may be crowded. Also, the “perfect” light is only available for a limited time - the sun doesn’t slow down for portrait sessions no matter how much I beg! Another point to consider - if it’s cloudy, all bets are off.
MY TAKE: I love this time of day. It can be SO much fun to play with light and how it toys with the camera (and any other gadgets I may bring with me). The trick to getting truly great portraits during Golden Hour is the use of off-camera flash. If you don’t use lighting, you’ll just get a bunch of back-lit silhouettes and dark faces. Stick with me, kid. I got this one.
EVENING
PROS: Dramatic and unique lighting opportunities, especially during twilight. Cityscapes or well-lit urban areas can provide a striking and brilliant backdrop.
CONS: Requires artificial lighting or extreme settings on the camera. Sometimes the areas we would use (city streets) can be a little dangerous at night.
MY TAKE: I would LOVE to do a session at night. What a fun option! Since I always bring my own lighting, that’s not a “con” for me, personally. It’s the dark streets that concern me. But heck, if I bring my Stories Framed Public Safety Assistant, we’re good to go!
What time of day appeals to YOU? This is the most important question. If you want a certain look, style or vibe that comes with a time of day, I will do what I need to do to make it work for you. These are YOUR senior portraits and I want you to love them.
(Besides, this is why we schedule a Pre-Session Consultation!)
Book your Class of 2025 senior photos TODAY! My calendar is filling up quickly. Let’s work together to get your preferred date, favorite location and a set of senior photos that you truly love.
