Sometimes senior encompasses more than just a senior in high school.  Seniors in college also want to document such a wonderful time in their lives with a photo shoot.

Monique Serra of Monique Serra Photography in Eugene, Oregon submitted this beautiful session of a University of Oregon senior.

“Chloe has such a beautiful soul and is a very outgoing and energetic person to be around,” said Monique.  “She is a light and I think that light illuminates in our photos!”

Check out this beautiful session below and read what Monique had to share about it.  Thanks for sharing your work with Seniorologie Monique.

Website:  www.moniqueserraphotography.com

Blog:  www.moniqueserraphotography.com/blog

Facebook:  www.facebook.com/moniqueserraphotography

What was your inspiration for this photo shoot?
My inspiration for this shoot was simple: I wanted the images to be young, free, simple, airy, alive, and clean. I love shooting colors and being bold with contrast and editing, but on the other hand, I have a very free people type of vision. The wardrobe Chloe chose was perfect! No patterns or bold colors, but mixed with the location we used and the natural color that surrounded us, I think we were perfectly able to capture that youthful and bright beauty she exudes.

Where did this photo shoot take place?
We took this photos at a park outside of Eugene, Oregon. The park is public, but most people don’t know there is a little trail, which leads directly to the river! We shot really early, so we could get the sun rising behind us. We were able to use one location, and yet get so many different looks because of the nature surrounding us. The river, trees, and blooming flowers all created such unique backdrops. It was a fairly small area, so we were a little constricted, but after chatting and hanging out all morning, it was easy to get creative!

Did you collaborate with this senior to come up with the clothing and/or concept for this shoot?
Chloe and I did collaborate on the entire concept of this session. I told her what my overall vision was, and she came up with her look entirely on her own. From wardrobe, to hair, to makeup… she did it all! I did provide the head pieces, but everything else was her! We met up at starbucks early that morning and ventured to the location together. I definitely had a vision in my head, but Chloe made it all come to life!

What camera, lens or other equipment was used for this shoot?
I used my canon 5D mark ii with my 85mm 1.2 lens (this was only my second shoot with this lens, and it’s safe to say, I’m in love!).

What time of day were these taken?
Sunrise

Can you share any post-processing techniques used when editing this session?
I edited the images in both LightRoom 5 and Photoshop. I light to adjust the lighting and contrast in lightroom, but I prefer using lightroom when editing portraits.

What is your favorite thing about this session?
My favorite thing about this session was how effortless it seemed! Chloe and I got along so great, and everything just seemed to flow so beautifully. There was no stress or pressure (aside from learning how to use a new lens). We just had fun and it allowed me to capture some really beautiful shots!

What do you want this session to convey about this senior and about your senior photography style?
This senior in particular is truly inspiring. She has worked so hard to graduate and achieve her dreams in pursuing basketball and sports. She is still so humbled and such an amazing person, it’s impossible to be around her and not smile.

As for my photography style: I’m still learning and growing and discovering who I am in this big ol’ photography world. I’ve only been pursuing this as a career for a year, and I constantly struggle with how I want others to see my work. I’m finally at a place where I’m so confident and content in who I am as an artist, and what I can offer my clients. I want to capture images that are real and honest. I want my images to represent beauty, and youth, and freedom. I love bold colors and contrast, and more than anything, I love connecting with the people I’m photographing. Capturing moments in people’s lives is the greatest honor I’ve ever been given!

What is one tip you can share with other photographers regarding photographing seniors?
Just have fun with your seniors! They’re nervous and most likely, this is a new experience for them. I am 6+ months pregnant, and a total goofball. I constantly trip or get in weird positions to capture the perfect shot. If I can make my client laugh, I get that perfect, effortless, real photo they want! I try to connect with each person in front of my lens on a personal level. Breaking down walls can be challenging, but it’s so rewarding for us as the photographer, and for them!