Being a photographer in Las Vegas must have plenty of advantages…the desert, Red Rock Canyon and the bright lights of the strip have to be wonderful locations to shoot.  This Las Vegas photographer, Mindy Bean of Mindy Bean Photography, took advantage of the beautiful setting that Red Rock Canyon provides and did a senior shoot that is beautiful.

I came across Mindy as I was researching Vegas for the upcoming Seniorologie Shoot Out, and this session stopped me in my tracks.  I love how ethereal this senior looks with the red rocks behind her in the first look, and how Mindy gave this senior something completely different with the fun second look.  Check out this session below and be sure to check out Mindy’s other work here.  Thanks for sharing Mindy!!

What was your inspiration for the photo shoot? I’m actually more of a wedding and engagement photographer. Kate loved my work with brides and wanted a fun shoot like I’ve done with some of them.

Where did this photo shoot take place? In Las Vegas by Red Rock Canyon. The place has a boardwalk that circles a meadow with red rock right behind it.

Did you collaborate with this senior to come up with the clothing and concept for this shoot? Yes. I find it is really important to have a consultation over the phone with all my seniors.  Most of them have a idea of what they want but I help them weed out the clothing or idea that don’t go together.  When all else fails I just have them pick their 5 top outfits they love and a prom dress or home coming dress. Most girls only wear the dress once so it gives them a reason to put it back on.

What camera gear was used? I am part of the Canon family.  I love my 70-200 L 2.8. (that is the lens I used 80% in a session) then I have 50 1.2, 85 1.8, 16-35 2.8.  I used some off camera speed lights. They are great b.c they are light and easy to travel with.

What time of day were these taken? For this location it is best to start the shoot 3 hours before the sun goes down b.c the sun goes behind the mountain a hour before sunset.

Can you share any post-possessing techniques used when editing this session?  The best advice I can give is to get it right in camera so you don’t have to fix it in photoshop. I do use the blur tool in photoshop to clean up the face and give all the kids that magazine look they want. Then I will use lightroom for the coloring.

What is you favorite about this session? It was the whimsical, rustic vibe she had. When she put her homecoming dress on with the headband wrap on it bought it all together.

What do you want this session to convey about this senior and about you senior photography style? I love very light feeling of the whole shoot.

What is one tip you can share with other photographers regarding photographing seniors? Have fun and make the whole experience one they will remember forever.