Senior Portraits That Feel Like YOU: Choosing the Perfect Location in Indianapolis & Beyond || Michelle Craig Photography

Jan 29

Class of 2025 - Graduation is just around the corner!! If you haven’t booked your Senior Portraits yet and one of your questions is how on earth to pick a location for your shoot, I have some food for thought!

Senior year is a huge milestone for many, one that deserves to be captured in a way that feels authentic to you at this chapter in your life. The right location for your senior portraits sets the tone, complements your style, and helps tell your unique story. Choosing a location should be a collaborative effort between you and your photographer - this is often a super fun part of our creative process, to be honest! We LOVE helping you get creative with locations, wardrobe and props! :)

Whether you’re drawn to nature, urban backdrops, or a place with deeper personal meaning, here’s how to decide on the perfect setting for your photoshoot:

First Things First: Consider Your Personality and Interests

Think about what feels most like you. Are you a nature lover, always hiking, foraging, hunting or just spending time enjoying the outdoors? Do you feel at home in the city, surrounded by architecture and street art? Maybe there’s a place that holds sentimental value—your favorite coffee shop, a library, game shop or a sports field where you’ve spent years training. Your senior portraits should reflect who you are at this very moment in your life!

1. Embrace the Beauty of Nature

If you love the outdoors, natural settings offer stunning backdrops that never go out of style.

Fields and Open Spaces: Tall grasses, wildflowers, and golden light at sunset create a dreamy atmosphere.
Forests and Trails: If you love adventure - wooded areas and hiking trails can bring an earthy, moody feel to your portraits.
Lakes and Rivers: Water adds a peaceful, reflective quality to your photos. Don’t forget to get playful IN the water, too!

A young person with short blonde hair and glasses sits comfortably on a rocky path, surrounded by golden autumn foliage. They wear a vintage-style sweatshirt with a bear design, giving off a relaxed and cozy outdoor vibe.

2. Explore Urban and Architectural Spaces

For a modern, bold, or artsy feel, an urban setting might be the perfect fit.

Downtown Streets: Brick walls, murals, and busy city vibes can make for energetic, dynamic images.
Historic Buildings: If you love classic and elegant aesthetics, older buildings with intricate details provide a timeless look.
Parking Garages & Rooftops: A more minimalist or edgy option with clean lines and a city skyline in the background.

A young woman in a cowboy hat sits by a window in a rustic urban setting, her reflection visible in the glass. A stylish and moody senior portrait with architectural character.

3. Make It Personal

Think about locations that mean something to you.

Your High School: A nod to the place where you’ve spent so many years growing and learning.
Your Favorite Hangout Spot: A café, bookstore, or record shop where you feel comfortable and relaxed.
Your Home: If you want a cozy, intimate session, your backyard, bedroom, or any favorite spot at home can make for
extra special & personal photos.

A young woman sitting in a pink dress, in a book store filled with plants, looking peacefully out the window at the world around her.

Other Considerations to Keep in Mind:

Think About the Seasons

The time of year can completely change the feel of your photos.

Spring: Fresh greenery, flowers, and vibrant colors.
Summer: Warm, golden light that lasts forever and carefree vibes. A great, low pressure time of year to book a
senior session because you are out of school.
Fall: Rich, earthy tones, colorful trees and crisp air make for gorgeous, cozy portraits. This is a VERY popular time of year to
book so if this is your preference, be sure to schedule months in advance!
Winter: Indiana winters often bring stark, monochromatic landscapes with muted tones, bare trees, and overcast skies.
This moody backdrop can create beautifully dramatic portraits where YOU are the focus! I especially feel like winter
portraits are SO underrated in Indy!

Keep Practicality in Mind

Accessibility: Make sure your chosen location is easy to get to and won’t require a long hike in formal clothes (unless you’re up for the adventure…because I am ALWAYS up for the adventure! Like - ALL of the adventure. Bring it on!!!).
Crowds: If you’re choosing a popular location, consider shooting on a weekday for fewer distractions.
Weather Considerations: Be prepared for changing conditions, especially if shooting outdoors, especially in the Spring,
especially in the Midwest.

Trust Your Photographer

If you’re unsure of anything, talk to your photographer! We know the best local spots, how lighting will play into your chosen setting,
and how to bring your vision to life!

Final Thoughts

Your senior portraits should be a reflection of you—your style, your journey, your personality. Whether it’s a golden field at sunset, a vibrant downtown street, or a quiet spot in your local record store, the right location will help create images that feel true to who you are in this unforgettable moment of your life.

Take a deep breath, choose a place that feels right, and get ready to capture your story.

Have questions? Ready to Book Your Senior Portraits?

If you love moody, artistic senior portraits that weave together the pieces that make you YOU - let me help create an
unforgettable session filled with fun, creativity and authenticity!

Let's Chat!