Just like incorporating football into a senior photo shoot for a high school boy, cheerleading can be used for a high school girl.  I was a cheerleader (a million years ago) and loved being in my uniform…it was a part of my personality!  I wish I had some photos of me from that time in my life.

High School Seniors are into so many activities today, and being able to showcase those activities through their senior portraits is a great way for them to reflect back on that time in their lives.

The photo shoot below by photographer Toni Lynn of Toni Lynn Photography, shows us how you can do several looks in one shoot and include a cheerleading uniform!

Check out what Toni had to say about this photo shoot and be sure to check out more of Toni’s work here.  Thanks Toni!!

What was your inspiration for this photo shoot?  Part of the shoot was inspired by the vintage chair.  I had been looking for a chair for a while and just couldn’t find the right one.  I was on my way to shoot a wedding and passed an antique store that was having an outdoor sale.  I immediately saw this chair and knew I had to have it.  I offered the guy $20 because that was all I had for cash and he said no.  I told him that I was going to use it for an outdoor field shoot and thanked him for his time.  As I was leaving he called me back and sold me the chair.

Where did this shoot take place?  We started out the shoot in walking around downtown Bellingham just kind of looking for some good light.  Then we went to a favorite field of mine that has gorgeous light!

Did you collaborate with this senior to come up with the wardrobe for this session?  Yes I always talk to my seniors about what might be good to wear for the shoot.  I also have a session outfit ideas board on Pinterest and I have them take a look at that also.

If the senior opts for hair and makeup, my stylist comes with me to the senior’s house.  As she is getting her hair and makeup done, I am going through and pulling together outfits that that senior has laid out.  We talk about what would look good with the different accessorizes and I plan out where we will head to take the pictures.  This is a great time to get to know each other and for her to get comfortable with me before I start shooting.  I love that this makes the whole day seem like something super special.  I spend a lot of time with my seniors and I want them to remember this day.  I want them to remember just how beautiful they are, inside and out.

What camera, lens and equipment was used during this session?  I have the Canon 5d Markii and most of the session was shot with the 85 1.8 because it’s my favorite until I can convince my husband that I NEED the 85 1.2.  I also used the 50 1.4.

What time of day was this shot?  If possible I always try to schedule my sessions two hours before dusk.  I will shoot at all times of the day but if it’s possible I just love that yummy golden hour!

Can you share any post processing techniques that were used when editing this session?  I edit in Lightroom to adjust the brightness, white balance, and contrast.  I go into Photoshop to sharpen.

What is your favorite thing about photographing seniors?  I just adore shooting seniors!  They are so full of energy and love to try new things.

What is one tip you can share with other photographers when photographing seniors?  I think the best tip I can give is to have fun with them.  I try to get them to laugh and I act really silly so they feel super comfortable and not awkward.  I’m still not quite sure if they are laughing with me or at me!