It’s true—senior photos are typically associated with high school seniors. They’re a time-honored tradition and right of passage going back way before the department-store photos of my generation. And why not? There are so many important uses for them! (Check out a few of my favorites here!) But what about college? Graduate school? Why leave all the fun to the teens? Whether you’re a student yourself or a parent looking for ways to celebrate your offspring’s unique accomplishments, let me tell you why senior photos aren’t just for high school students anymore.

Senior photos commemorate milestones—whatever they might be!

Yes, graduating high school is a significant accomplishment. But so is graduating from anything else! Senior photos represent the graduates of college, medical school, law school, and so much more. They’re a unique way to mark your achievements, whatever they might be! They capture a significant milestone, provide a visual representation of the journey through any endeavor, and act as a cherished keepsake for years to come. 

More than that, senior photos give us a way to look back on the college or graduate years with joy-filled memories that we’ll definitely be nostalgic for someday. They allow students to express their unique personality and style beyond the awkward teenage years, and document those passions through props, poses and photos. These images aren’t just another set of generic portraits; they’re artistic representations of YOU at this specific moment in time. 

Take them for your family

Trust me. Even if you don’t feel like marking every graduation with senior photos, your family definitely does! These images visually celebrate both academic and personal accomplishments. They showcase the hard work and dedication of each graduating student, and highlight the unique talents, interests, and extracurricular activities that shaped the whole experience. They even create a visual narrative that bridges the gap between a student’s college years and their future aspirations. 

These are the images that will tell your story on the mantel in your parents’ living room. The ones they’ll show friends and family as they share their pride and joy. The ones that connect the dots from baby pictures to wedding pictures, family photos, and beyond. They’re gifts, they’re social media posts, they’re holiday cards, and more!

Let’s talk logistics

Most seniors choose spring sessions for their senior photos, but I always recommend the summer before your final semester. The weather is better, the outfits are cuter, and the “senioritis” hasn’t quite kicked in yet. Plus you’ll get your gallery in hand sooner, so you’re ready for graduation invitations, thank you notes, personal portfolios, professional job applications and more. 

Are you graduating from an institution in Colorado? I can help you craft the perfect portrait session. Get started by reading this, check out some of my work, then reach out so we can chat! I’d love to bring this chapter in your story to life.

There’s something truly magical about a Colorado Springs wedding. From rustic venues to luxurious resorts, this unique city offers everything you need for a breathtaking celebration. (With a backdrop that features Pike’s Peak and the front range mountains!) Looking to be swept away in natural wonders and famous panoramic views? A Colorado Springs wedding could be just what you’re looking for.

Holly and Rico tied the knot this spring at Kettle Lake, near the Air Force Academy on the north side of town. If you’re eligible through the military, the Academy has a stunning chapel on campus, along with some pretty amazing grounds for photos. But if that’s not your scene, there are plenty of other indoor spaces for a perfect Colorado Springs wedding. Check out a few of my favorites here, and plan an indoor ceremony guaranteed to be safe from the seasonal elements.

If the mountains are the focal point of your day, there are plenty of outdoor venues to choose from that highlight the city’s gorgeous natural landscapes. From Garden of the Gods to Pike’s Peak Ranch, you can let mother nature be your centerpiece. Hillside Gardens can offer a great rustic vibe, while Manitou Springs and Old Colorado City can provide a little more funk.

Did you know Colorado Springs enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine each year? That’s right. And low humidity, too! Even the April showers don’t hang over the whole afternoon. So when your guests aren’t busy watching you say “I do” under the sun, they can enjoy plenty of adventures. Think hiking, rock climbing, ziplining, or exploring the patios of charming local restaurants and breweries!

If you’re thinking a smaller micro-wedding or elopement, a Colorado Springs has got you covered. In fact, Colorado is one of the few states that allows couples to legally marry themselves without an officiant. That makes it ideal for elopements or non-traditional ceremonies!

Ready to start planning? I’ve been photographing rocky mountain weddings for more than a decade! Read through my wedding packages here, then reach out to confirm your dates. I’d love to unpack your vision and bring your dreams to life!