I’ve noticed that guys senior pictures sessions tend to be more about making Mom happy, than the senior himself. If it were up to him, most boys would just skip it. Then I met Austin. His creative energy and enthusiasm were contagious and he was quick to add his own ideas as we worked together.
A model call
I met him when I posted a model call in the Spring of 2019. I was looking to build my professional photography portfolio. It was also a chance to continue to practice all I had been learning about posing, lighting and photo locations.
A colleague told me that her nephew would be great to work with. After she let him know about me, I reached out to him. He and his Mom, Amanda met me at one of my favorite coffee shops downtown. We grabbed beverages at Little Amps on State Street so we could get to know each other.
I learned that Austin was a carpentry student who was looking forward to beginning an apprenticeship for his senior year of high school. He loved playing hockey for the Jr Bears and hanging with his girlfriend in his free time. He told me his hair cut was brand new. That he had just donated his long hair in honor of his Mom, who had fought and won a battle with breast cancer. So today he was proudly wearing a pink polo.
Midtown, Harrisburg Location
We wandered down side streets and alleyways and along the riverfront looking for great light. Midtown is so full of those urban features with grit and character and this was my reason for choosing it. Faded, or peeling paint, a rusted fire escape… Austin and Amanda threw their own ideas in until we had fun variety of shots.
There was easy banter and lots of laughter between mother and son and it was so much fun hanging out with them. As our hour together came to a close, we talked about Austin’s thoughts for his senior pictures and agreed that we should get back together and make plans for a full-blown senior session soon.
His Senior Pictures: Session One
Fast forward to the Fall. He had already picked out three locations for his senior pictures. We’d start at Lebanon Valley College and then move to Memorial Lake. On a separate day we would meet at the Giant Center for photos on the ice in his hockey uniform.
I hadn’t been to LVC for a photo session before this and when I arrived, I was happy to find a nice mix of natural and architectural features. The highlight of this location was the peace garden. From the spring house to the bridge and low stone walls, the landscaping was gorgeous. It was such a quaint space and everywhere you looked was a treat for the eyes. Due to the fall foliage, the tree-line beyond the garden gave you the impression that the sky was on fire. Amanda made sure we got a few family shots there. I’m sure that she treasures this shot with her boys!!
Photos with his Uncle’s Harley Davidson Motorcycle. He would later go to school and earn his certification as a Motorcycle Technician.
Austin wore the watch he had inherited from his recently passed grandfather.
Memorial Lake, was a beautiful backdrop for some woodsy shots in his flannel shirt, western hat and boots. And what is a guy without his truck?! We had to capture that as well.
Side note: When you take photos at Memorial Lake, you need to call ahead and get a permit. So if you’re thinking of a session here, keep that in mind!
His Senior Pictures: Session Two
My final session with Austin was his hockey practice at The Giant Center, where I got an education about the joys and pains of a hockey mom. Seriously! …so much dedication! Lots of time, travel, and of course $$ is involved for hockey parents! We captured some photos in the locker room and then some on the ice as well. It was fun hearing Mom and sons reminisce about all their memories over the years as part of the Junior Bears team.
Gearing up for hockey practice!
Helping his younger brother Cody with his gear.
As I finish this post Austin is completing his final year at Annville-Cleona High School. I saw him mention the other day that there are only 100 days left until graduation. He said that he’s looking forward to attending trade school in Phoenix, AZ to become a Motorcycle Technician. Congrats Austin!
Are you looking for a professional photographer for your senior boy? I’d love to talk with you. Get in touch with me here!
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