A senior photoshoot gives you the opportunity to capture a memorable time of your life using fun and creative images. These are not the same as your senior yearbook photos – no formal wear or gowns are necessary. Your senior portraits incorporate your unique character and style at this time in your life.

Of the many things you will need to consider when planning your senior photo session, location is one of them. The location of your session will also set the tone of your photos. If you want your photos to be as meaningful as possible, here are some tips that will help you decide on a location.

-        Where do you unwind? Think about what you like to do when you’ve had a long or stressful day and you want to relax and have fun. The more relaxed and joyful you are, the more natural and unique your photos will turn out. This could be your bedroom or a cozy chair in the living room, both of which make for good backdrops.

-        Incorporate your hobbies. What are your hobbies and can you find a way to incorporate them into your photo session? Perhaps you like hiking or you’ve learned how to play the guitar, these are both the types of hobbies that can fit in with your photoshoot. The great outdoors always makes for a great location for a shoot, as does a music class or art studio.

-        Have fun with your pets. If you spend a lot of time with your cat or dog at home, including your pets in your senior portraits will make the photos and experience more meaningful. If you happen to ride horses or live on a farm, these locations are ideal for creating unique photos.

-        Get out and about. Do you love heading to your favorite park or coffee shop downtown? Why not use this as a location for your senior portraits. The city is filled with interesting backdrops such as graffiti-filled walls. Nature is also brimming with beautiful settings that will bring life to your portrait photos.

-        Include a friend. Include your friend in your photos and shoot them in a place you love to spend time together to make the experience extra special. Perhaps you love strolling along a local bridge or meet for milkshakes at your favorite diner, brainstorm a few creative options together.

-        Where do you spend time with your family? If you and your family tend to take a lot of outings together, these are the types of locations that would make your senior portraits much more meaningful.

There really is no perfect formula for choosing a senior portrait location, the perfect location is whatever’s most special to you.