Where should I have my Senior Portrait Session?

Gone are the days of formal senior portraits done in the studio.  Today’s senior wants a lifestyle shoot that better reflects who they really are.  High schools are loosening their requirements of the formal photo, although there are a few schools around that still want them – but that’s to make THEM look better – not our senior!

So, where do you want to go?

We are open to any locale on the north shore, but keep in mind that a growing number of locations are requiring photography permits to shoot there.

Here are some examples of the kinds of images we can achieve at some of our favorite locations.

The Salt Marshes of Ipswich and Essex.

Not gonna’ lie, the salt marshes around here are my favorite.  No matter the time of year, they provide a background of color and texture that really make you stand out.  I personally love the limey-green of the grasses, but even in winter, when they start to fade, that light brownish color adds a lovely neutral background that doesn’t compete with you or what you’re wearing.  I always try to envision the finished portrait, on canvas, in the family room – these REALLY make a statement!

Argilla Road in Ipswich is one locale, but there are salt marshes everywhere.  I don’t even know where the second photo was taken.  This senior had a place in mind and I followed her lead.

These two images are also a great example of how you do not need a sunny day for great photos.

In fact, overcast days are the best as the clouds act as a natural diffuser, softening the light on your face and minimizing the need to squint!  The bottom left photo was taken in near darkness – not recommended as I could barely see what I was doing – but, proof of what we can do with little lighting.

Lynch Park in Beverly

Lynch Park is super popular with the kids because there is so much variety at this beautiful park.  What a gem we have here on the North Shore!  You have so many options, with its two beaches, the carriage house, the rose gardens, the pavilion, the woody areas, fences and walls of all sorts of textures and materials – the sky’s the limit really.

In the summer (Memorial Day to Labor Day), there is a $20 parking fee for non-residents and weekends can get REALLY crazy with weddings in the Rose Garden and photographers everywhere limiting our ability to shoot.  Weekdays after 5 in summer work out terrific, no parking fee and less competition for space.

Some things  to keep in mind about this venue:

• Being right on the ocean, Lynch Park is usually windier than places inland.  Girls, you’ll want to be sure to being your hair accoutrements, as you will definitely need a brushout along the way.  Curly hair will also get curlier with the extra humidity.
• The bathrooms are not available for changing after Labor Day, so dress in a way you change looks in a public place.

Endicott Park in Danvers

Endicott Park is just beautiful and a favorite with kids in Danvers and surrounding towns as they spent alot of time there as kids!  With its carriage house,  barns, pond, and beautifully landscaped property, you have so many “vignettes” for your senior portraits.

Recently Endicott has gotten more strict with its rules abut professional photography at the park.  All sessions will need to be pre-booked and a permit purchased for specific dates/times/areas.  It makes it difficult when weather and the kids’ schedules throw us curveballs – rescheduling will be ‘a process’.

Permits, $25, need to be organized ahead of time on the Endicott website.

Salem Waterfront

North Shore

A field on the side of a road in Gloucester.

At a park in North Andover.

We are spoilt for choice here on Boston’s North Shore.  If you have a favorite locale, let us know.  We’d love to meet you there for your session.

Woodlands on the side of a road in Topsfield.