Bringing a few of her favorite pieces, including her favorite hat, a well-loved book and a special necklace handed down from her grandmother, is how this senior made her photo session her own. And her photographer, Janel, of Janel KG Photography did a wonderful job of creating a “secret garden” set for this personal photo shoot!
Read what Janel had to say regarding this photo shoot below and be sure to check out her work here. Thanks Janel!!
What was your inspiration for this photo shoot? My inspiration for each senior I shoot is simply to capture images that truly reflect their unique beauty and personality.
Where did this shoot take place? We began this shoot at the train station in downtown Sacramento, and then finished up in the “secret garden” area of William Land Park. I sit down with my seniors before their sessions and discuss location ideas. I ask for their input, and am happy to suggest locations that are in keeping with their style. I am always on the lookout for cool, new spots to shoot, since I want each individual’s session to have their own look and feel.
Did you collaborate with this senior on the wardrobe for this shoot? Yes, when we sit down prior to their session, we talk about clothing options. My seniors usually bring two or three outfits to their session, and I suggest something dressy and fun, and something a little more casual. I love it when they complete each look with jewelry, shoes, etc. Above all, I tell everyone to wear what makes them feel fabulous and beautiful! I also encourage senior girls to get their hair and makeup professionally done, which makes them feel extra lovely and results in gorgeous images!
Hair was by Krisy Rakela at Allure Salon & Spa
Makeup by Chastity Pond at Allure Salon & Spa
Clothing by Nordstrom, Forever21 and Urban Outfitters
What camera, lens and equipment was used during this shoot? I shoot primarily with prime lenses; my 50 1.4 and 85 1.8 are my favorite!
What time of day was this shot? This session was shot in the late afternoon/early evening… the best time for pretty light!
Can you share any post-processing techniques used when editing these photos? I use Lightroom for my post-processing, and I like my images to have a natural, classic look. I have come up with my own “recipes’ that achieve the look I’m after, which are minor adjustments in brightness, saturation, vibrance, and luminance, and I usually accentuate and brighten the eyes slightly, and lightly re-touch skin. As you can see, this lovely girl already has virtually perfect skin!
What is your favorite thing about these photos? My favorite thing about these photos is that she incorporated her own accessories and props to make her session truly her own. I love that she wore a necklace handed down from her late grandmother, brought one of her all-time favorite books, and a well-loved hat!
What do you want this session to convey about this senior and about your photography style? I love that these photos are a genuine reflection of her own personality and style, and that I was able to capture her looking and feeling beautiful! This session conveys what I want to get out of all my senior shoots… it’s relaxed, fun and personal.
What is one tip you can share with other photographers about photographing seniors? I think the best tip I have to offer is to be fun, make them laugh, and get them talking. The best images come when they’re relaxed and feeling great. It’s great idea to get to know your senior a little bit beforehand, which helps you get dialed in to their interests, style, and personality. I have my seniors fill out a short survey, so I know ahead of time what kind of music they’re into, where they like to shop, what sports they play, what their plans are for college, etc. And if you’ve never heard of their favorite band… look it up!
Tell me a little about you…how you got into photography? how long have you been in business? how long have you been shooting seniors? Where are you from? etc. I am a portrait and wedding photographer based in Sacramento, CA… happily married to my high school sweetheart, and mom to Claire, age 11, and Sean, age 7. My love for photography began when I received my very first camera at 8 years old. I studied photography in college, and even had my own darkroom back in the film days. I started shooting professionally a couple of years ago, when I realized I could make a career out of something I love!
