This photographer loves Styled shoots that use natural surroundings as props. The location in this shoot provided such great props as trees, stumps, rocks and more, and this photographer definitely accomplished her goal of creating a styled shoot that is both natural and calm.

Not only does Kelsey Strawn of Color & Dust pull off the natural and calm look she was going for, but she also created a photo shoot that looks like an ad for Free People! Feathers, hats and beautiful jewelry help complete this senior’s look.

Check out what Kelsey has to say about this shoot below and be sure to check out Kelsey’s other work here. Thanks for sharing Kelsey!

Was this a concept shoot or a client shoot?

concept (with previous client)

What was your inspiration and overall concept for the photo shoot?

Free People Clothing (layers and textures) was our inspiration for the shoot. The goal for this shoot was simple, calm, no outfit changes and no props. We used only natural surroundings (water, rocks…).

Where did this photo shoot take place?

In East Texas about 5 miles from where we both live.

Did you collaborate with this senior to come up with the clothing for this shoot?

Yes. We gave ourselves one rule; 1 outfit with 3 layers of clothing and any accessories. We looked through a Free People catalog together and talked about our favorite looks. Kirsten had a sweater and fur vest at home, along with all the jewelry. She only made one purchase. She bought the Free People dress off ebay and I brought the hats. It gave us 3 possible looks buying only 1 item.

Did you work with other artists such as a makeup artist, stylist, etc?

No. Kirsten and her mom have great style. They also know how to apply make-up perfectly. I completely trusted them. Using a make-up artist is a great idea though! I have learned it can make a difference in a shoot. I always bring make-up with me on shoots (such as clean brushes and blush/bronzers) just in case.

What camera, lens and equipment were used for this shoot?

Camera: Canon 5d Mark II (we now use the Mark III)

Lenses: 50 1.2 and 85 1.2

What time of day were these taken?

6-7 P.M.

Can you share any post-processing techniques used when editing this session?

We used Red Leaf’s film solution actions! We love Read Leaf Studios Photogapher Boutique!

What is your favorite thing about this session?

The location was perfect and no outfit changes! It was an extremely calm session. We walked around slowly and only removed layers (no rushing around to change outfits or locations).

What do you want this session to convey about this senior and about your senior photography style?

Her style. She has great taste in clothes and hair and make-up! I shoot equal amount of laughing/smiling shots as I do natural looks but I’m drawn to natural faces. The way a client looks when you call their name or how they grab their hair (when they are nervous or thinking).

What is one thing you learned by doing this concept shoot?

Going slow makes a difference in the way I shoot. I pay more attention to getting it right in camera. It also gives me a chance to observe my client with down time.

What is one tip you can share with other photographers regarding photographing seniors?

It’s okay to go slow. I use to go faster in senior sessions compared to my other sessions. I felt rushed to get in all the outfits or locations. Going slower for me means less work in post-processing and more chances to talk and observe my client (even though we talk through the whole session anyways). If your client asks, “what do I do next,” don’t feel rushed to get to the next pose. Allow them to relax giving you a chance to observe.

(I love this tip Kelsey!! I have definitely tried to go too fast thinking I had to be on at every moment of the shoot. But slowing down and getting the look you want at the shoot will save you time later! Great tip!!)