Finding Beauty in Unexpected Locations
While it may be expected that senior portrait photographers limit their location choices to typical picturesque landscapes and well-kept places, there exists a unique challenge for photographers to find and create beauty from backgrounds and locations that may seem dull, uninteresting, or even ugly to the average viewer. It is often in those unexpected places that the most creative photography unfolds, and a unique experience can be created for the senior.
A pile of discarded wood pallets caught my eye, and made for the perfect backdrop.
The Creative Eye
Portrait photographers are artists, and as such, possess a special skill in seeing beyond the surface of a location. This artistic vision isn’t something that can be taught, but rather that some individuals are born with and develop over time. Unusual locations have a great potential to serve as interesting backdrops that add depth and character to senior portraits, something that today’s teens are looking for.
Embracing Imperfections
The beauty of creating art lies in embracing imperfections. Skilled photographers recognize how features such as weathered wood, old bricks, twisted metal, peeling paint, and overgrown vegetation can add an element of charm and uniqueness to their senior photography. The variety of colors and textures present in these locations are unmatched by what can be found in a manicured or well-kept location. Unconventional locations can even allow photographers to better manipulate light and shadows to create dramatic senior portraits.
Adding a Human Element
Allowing a human subject to interact with his or her surroundings can instantly change the dynamics of a photo and bring life to otherwise forgotten locations. The juxtaposition of human form against a grungy backdrop can turn something that might appear ugly into something strangely beautiful instead.
Telling an Authentic Story
Senior photography today is all about authenticity and experience. Weaving the background and surroundings into the final image can make the photo session experience much more memorable for the senior. They want something different, and they want to experience excitement in the creation of their portraits.
This little antique shop had many interesting objects viewable through the windows.
While no longer here, this parking lot once had some grungy sheds and patches of wildflowers along the river.
Grandpa’s junk pile made this senior’s photo session different from anyone else’s.
This downtown alley is full of texture and color, and is one of the more popular locations my senior clients choose.
I got excited when I saw the lot across from this senior’s house, and the metal ice shanty that was stored there.
This grungy alley is a hidden gem.
As a senior photographer, I embrace the challenge of these unexpected locations. I’ve always been able to see beauty peeking out from the average. I view each element, color, and shape as something that can creatively add to the composition of a portrait. On multiple occasions, I have surprised a client who was hesitant or questioning a location where I told them to pose. But each time they loved the resulting photo! If you are looking for creative senior photographers in the Fond du Lac area, I would love to create portraits for you that will stand out.