According to Joelle of Sarah Joelle Photography, the idea behind this shoot was to combine classic outfits and details with grunge elements and locations and to incorporate bold color and modern apparel into historic backgrounds and neighborhoods.

“I really love the juxtaposition of the modern and historic,” said Joelle.

What a great way to give this senior something different that is both classic and edgy, bold and high fashion but yet traditional!

Check out what Joelle had to say about this session below and be sure to check out more of Joelle’s work here.  Thanks for sharing Joelle!

What was your inspiration for the photo shoot?
I was especially inspired by fashion photography for this photo shoot… many times when looking for ideas for senior photos I am inspired by fashion or even wedding photography… I find that this gives me a fresh perspective! I always try to understand and plan the style or “look” of the photo shoot before hand – but often most of my inspiration comes on the spot when we discover perfect locations or when she pulls out amazing outfits… this is when I actually see it all come together!

Where did this photo shoot take place?
We started in downtown Denver close to the Contemporary Art Museum for a more modern, urban feel and then made our way to the historic neighborhoods surrounding Cheeseman Park for more of an “old”, classic look. Honestly, we drove around a lot! I knew the general area we would be shooting in but on the day of the shoot we just drove up and down the neighborhood streets exploring until we saw a beautiful doorway or the perfect wall!

Did you collaborate with this senior to come up with the clothing and/or concept for this shoot?
I definitely give input and tips and what to wear, but I would have to give the credit for the fabulous outfits in this session to the senior (Tayler) and her mom (Gina). The mother, Gina, was very much involved in the planning of this photo shoot! She is one of those people I would love to have as a personal shopper! Between Taylor and her mom they came up with outfits that were so perfect for the style we were going for!

What camera, lens and equipment were used for this shoot?
I shoot with a Canon 5D Mark II. I use my favorite 50mm 1.4 for almost the entire shoot! I actually also used a macro 100mm 2.8 for some of the portraits which I know is not its “typical” use but it gives the photos a look that I really like.

What time of day were these taken?
A few hours before sunset… my favorite time of day!

Can you share any post-processing techniques used when editing this session?
One of my favorite steps in post is an action I use that applies a layer with slightest hint of purple. It sounds odd but it gives amazing vibrancy and life to hair and skin!

What is your favorite thing about this session?
I absolutely love the contrasting elements! The classic outfits and details with somewhat grunge elements and locations… the bold color and modern apparel with the historic backgrounds and neighborhoods. I really love the juxtaposition of the modern and historic… and the pretty girl so out of place against the graffiti and chipping paint. But in the end it all just looks right!

What do you want this session to convey about this senior and about your senior photography style?
I love the artistic process and styling of senior photography and I love how every senior brings their unique personality and style making each session different.

What is one tip you can share with other photographers regarding photographing seniors?
My goal in photographing seniors is always to make them feel comfortable, confident, and beautiful! I think that it helps to remember that even though I do these photo shoots all the time – this is many times their first and only time as the star in front of the camera! So walk them through the process and make it fun! I always demonstrate the poses I am asking them to do! If I want them to lay on the ground I will lay down first so that it seems like no big deal… if I want them to do something that feels funny or unnatural I let them laugh at me doing it first!