Shreeya’s range of talents and interests is seriously impressive! She had so many creative ideas, outfits, and locations in mind that her session took some careful planning.

Fortunately, my process includes a pre-consultation with seniors and their parent(s) so we can create a customized game plan. It was such a joy working with Shreeya and her mom. After the consult, I shared a shot list including: locations, outfits, and props. I also wrote up a timeline to keep us on track for this amazing shoot.

Check out all of the fun locations…

Urban Backdrop

Shreeya was a drum major for the Waukee High School marching band. Our photo shoot started with her trumpet and marching band shako. (Also, who doesn’t love her bright red heels!?)

Shreeya marching band senior photo
Shreeya with trumpet senior photo
Shreeya in marching band jacket for senior photos
Senior session: Shreeya in downtown Des Moines
Waukee senior: Shreeya senior photo
Shreeya's senior session with Trumpet
Shreeya with instrument senior session
Des Moines senior session: Shreeya

Bridge District

This little spot is right next to the pagoda. It was not on our list, but the architecture was so inviting – we had to stop for a few photos. So glad we did – Shreeya looks amazing!

Shreeya in jumpsuit senior portrait
Shreeya's senior picture in downtown Des Moines
Shreeya on bridge with trumpet
Waukee senior session: Shreeya

The Red Pagoda

The Robert D. Ray Asian Garden includes an impressive red pagoda. Since Shreeya has a black belt in karate, it seemed like the perfect spot for senior pictures!

Shreeya at Des Moines Pagoda
Shreeya karate senior photo
Senior session: Shreeya in front of the Red Pagoda

Waterworks Park

Shreeya has both Mexican and Indian heritage. It was so fun to capture her wearing outfits that paid homage to each one. Watching her spin in this dress was truly amazing –  so fun to photograph, and what a unique idea for her senior portraits!

Shreeya twirling senior photo
Senior session at Des Moines Waterworks park
Shreeya's senior picture in waterworks park

Water Works Park Trail Bridge

We hit a bit of rain at the bridge, but it passed quickly and didn’t affect the vibe. I absolutely love this spot—I recommend stopping here every time I come to Waterworks Park. This outfit is one of my favorites I’ve photographed in this location; the detail and intricacy are just stunning.

Shreeya at Waterworks park bridge
Shreeya's senior session on bridge
Shreeya's senior picture on Waterworks park bridge

Waterworks Park Trail

Her white outfit, combined with french horn and flowers, helped to create timeless images that definitely show Shreeya’s personality. Bonus: we managed to capture a bit of golden hour light before heading to our last spot!
Shreeya in white dress senior photo
Shreeya with french horn senior photo
Shreeya senior session: french horn and flowers
Shreeya's senior portrait at Des Moines Waterworks park
Shreeya with flowers in Waterworks park
Senior session in Des Moines: Waterworks park
Shreeya golden hour senior photo

A Playground!

After all of the grand locations, clothing choices, and props from Shreeya’s senior session, we ended in a park at Grays Lake, with jeans, a t-shirt, and bubbles! Yes, this part was on the shot list. So fitting, and what a perfect finale!
Shreeya on playground senior photo
Des Moines playground senior session

Shreeya’s session was full of style, spirit, and individuality—just like her. If you’re dreaming up your perfect shoot, I’d love to help make it happen!