Mary Jackson Photography Blog

When Hannah's mom reached out about senior portraits, I knew we were going to create something special. During our in-home consultation, as we sat planning her session, Hannah shared she wanted her photos to be outside and wanted to have them around her home. Her mom beamed while telling me about Hannah's musical talents so we incorporated her guitar into the session. These personal details, they are exactly what make senior portraits come alive.

Making Every Location Count

We started our session by a stone wall in their neighborhood where she wore a super cute maroon dress. We then went into a forest preserve near her home where her family frequently walks their dog, Ivy. Once again, personal detail and a place filled with family memories. There's something magical about photographing seniors in places that mean something to them, where they feel completely at home.

We captured here on the bridge with the same maroon dress, then she changed into a jean skirt, sweater and trendy booties. The perfect outfit for a fall day. The way Hannah naturally leaned into the session, with that radiant smile and easy laugh, made my job as a photographer pure joy. When you're comfortable in your environment, it shows in every frame.

Beyond the Traditional Senior Photos

Since we planned almost every detail of the session, we knew which outfits were going to be worn at the different locations. While this is my standard practice, on this particular fall day, the weather was quite chilly so I knew I had to work fast to make sure Hannah stayed comfortable. We still had much to fit into the session. We incorporated:

Her beloved guitar (because those musical talents need to be celebrated!)
Multiple outfit changes that showed her personality
Downtown Frankfort spots that captured her high school years
Those special trail moments where her family makes memories

In downtown Frankfort, she changed into jeans and black top. This urban outfit, fit well against the landmarks of the town. Every session is different and in each session I want you to stand out. So when I took the picture of Hannah sitting on the steps, I knew this picture was one which captured her perfectly and knew I was going to submit this picture for publication to a senior industry magazine. Much to my delight her photograph was published, (Talk about making your senior photos stand out and unforgettable!)

Our final location was around the pound, this is where we got to capture some of the amazing golden hour lighting. She wore a green dress and did her best not to shiver. By this time it was really cold. There were just some special poses I wanted to get and I really work fast to get them for her. All in all, the session was a success and she will always have memories of this session and a gorgeous hand made leather album of all her photos she can treasure for year to come.

For the Moms

Can we just take a moment to appreciate the moms who help plan these sessions? Who remember to bring the special necklace, who tear up a little watching their daughter in front of the camera? These sessions aren't just about the photos – they're about capturing this incredible moment when your daughter is standing on the edge of her next big adventure.

Hey Juniors

Your senior year is happening next. Whether you're dreaming of photos with your sports gear, your art, your pets, or at your favorite spots around Frankfort – let's create senior portraits that are absolutely, authentically you.

Ready to plan your own unforgettable senior session? Summer dates are booking up fast (they're the perfect time to get those golden-hour shots!). Click the Contact me button to get started.

A Fall Senior Session to Remember: Hannah's Class of 2025 Story Frankfort IL

Making Every Location Count

Beyond the Traditional Senior Photos

For the Moms

Hey Juniors