When this senior wanted a conceptual look for her shoot, Salome Klopfenstein of Salome Photography in Kendallville, Indiana, put together an Indiana Princess look that both the senior and Salome pulled off wonderfully!

Using the natural elements of her surroundings and shooting on a foggy, overcast day, Salome was able to give these photos an earthy and monochrome look that I think turned out beautifully!

Check out this session below and read what Salome had to say about how she worked with this senior to produce such spectacular images.  And to see more of Salome’s work, click here.  Thanks for sharing Salome!!

What was your inspiration for the photo shoot?  –  I really wanted to do something very earthy and moody.   I photographed her senior portraits, and then we decided to do a separate conceptual shoot where we could both express our mood and creativity with unique images.

Where did this photo shoot take place?  It took place on my property behind what will soon be my home office/studio location. J

Did you collaborate with this senior to come up with the clothing and/or concept for this shoot?  We talked about the idea together.. I wanted something very neutral and monochromatic, like a modern day Native American princess feel.  She brought the amazing earrings, belt, headband, and accessories and we kind of pieced everything together.   The story of the dress she’s wearing is really funny.. I was trying to find the perfect “outfit” that would complement the shoot, and I couldn’t find anything that I loved.  SO.. I actually ended up MAKING the dress for her out of sheets and a pillowcase. Haha..  It’s not something I’ve ever done before, but since this shoot was entirely artistic,  in this instance, it turned out to be the perfect dress!

What camera, lens and equipment were used for this shoot?  I used my Nikon D700 and 85MM 1.4D Lens  For lighting I used a large oval 5in1 reflector set to silver.

What time of day were these taken?  It was a very overcast/foggy day and we shot around mid-afternoon.

Can you share any post-processing techniques used when editing this session?  I didn’t use a ton of dramatic post-processing since I wanted to keep an overall monochromatic theme.   I did edit primarily in ACR and Photoshop.. and used Portraiture for her skin.  I also think I used some color adjustment layers and my favorite film art presets from ClickinMoms.

What is your favorite thing about this session? Just everything.. I’ve loved the outdoors and the woods since I was a little girl, and growing up I always thought it was a magical place..   So I feel that this session really conveys that “magic” to me and takes me back to a time long ago.

What do you want this session to convey about this senior and about your senior photography style?  I think this session really allowed her to be creative and step outside of the traditional portrait scene.   I’m not afraid of trying new things and letting my seniors express themselves through their photos in a way that is gorgeous and uniquely them.  This transition stage of ending childhood and venturing into adulthood is such a unique time.  I like to encourage both “feelings” in my sessions in a way that the senior can identify with this time in their lives forever.

What is one tip you can share with other photographers regarding photographing seniors?   If you love photographing seniors, give it your all.    Shoot what you love, and give them an experience they can’t forget.