Makhia Adventure Travel Senior Portrait session in Phoenix Arizona | Anjeanette Photography Phoenix Senior Photographer
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Class of 2023 grad to be Makhia, graduating from Cole Valley Christian Academy in Meridian, Idaho, wanted senior photos that would stand out. She wasn't interested in the conventional high school portraits that everyone else was getting in her city. So, she and her mom made the bold decision to hop on a plane and come visit me in Phoenix, AZ! Talk about dedication to getting those perfect shots!
A lot of photographers won’t tell you the spots they go for senior photos, but the truth is you can get great photos anyplace in Peoria and Phoenix- the location isn’t as important as the experience the senior has which really brings out their sparkle, and connection they have with their photographer. That being said, while anyone can take good pictures I strive to make the senior experience so awesome you get GREAT one of a kind portraits back! That being said, one of my favorite places is Sonoran Mountain Ranch Park where Makhia and I went for her sweet little Aspect Mini Session. We choose the perfect time – right at sunset.
There's something magical about that time of day in Arizona. The sky starts its symphony of colors, and the desert landscape glows like it’s been kissed by golden light. We started with natural light to capture that rich, artistic glow. Trust me, when the sun starts to dip, everything looks like it’s bathed in liquid gold. No wonder this scene with its sunrays and colors is our state logo! Occationally, I switched to using a flash to balance the sky’s dramatic hues with Makhia’s complection. It was like capturing two masterpieces in one frame!
Makhia’s nailed her outfit choices. Seriously, both ‘fits she picked were on point, but there was this hat – that hat was the cherry on top for the cloudy Arizona day. It added a dash of personality and flair to her look. Speaking of the clouds, here's a fun fact: In my almost unbiased opinion Arizona sunsets are the most spectacular in the world, but they need a bit of cloud cover to really show off. And we got exactly that – a canvas of vibrant pinks, purples, and oranges painted across the sky. Pure magic.
One of my favorite moments was when we found this perfect spot overlooking the desert. The view was breathtaking, with the sun slowly sinking behind the mountains. Makhia stood there, looking like she owned the world, with her hat tilted just right and a confident smile. I clicked away, capturing her in her element, surrounded by the natural beauty of Arizona. These photos were more than just pictures; they were a celebration of her journey, her achievements, and her unique style.
It wasn’t just about the scenery or the outfits, though. What made this session truly special was Makhia herself. Her energy, her laughter, and her willingness to try different poses and ideas made the whole process a blast. Whether she was twirling around, laughing at some silly joke, or striking a fierce pose, she brought so much life to the shoot. It was clear that these photos were a true reflection of her – bold, beautiful, and unapologetically herself.
For the parents and high school seniors reading this, let me tell you – senior photos are more than just a tradition. They’re a way to capture a pivotal moment in time, a way to celebrate the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. And sometimes, it’s worth taking that extra step (or flight!) to make sure those photos are as unique and special as you are. Makhia and her mom made that leap, and the result was a stunning collection of images that they’ll treasure forever.
Each shot tells a story, from the soft, golden light of the early evening to the dramatic, flash-lit moments against the vibrant sunset. They’re a testament to the beauty of Arizona and the vibrant spirit of a young woman ready to take on the world. Makhia, you rocked that photoshoot, and I’m so glad I could be a part of your senior year memories.
So, to all the seniors out there dreaming of something different, something uniquely you – don’t be afraid to take a chance. Whether it’s hopping on a plane or just trying out a new look, go for it. Your senior photos should be as extraordinary as your journey has been. And trust me, when you see those pictures, you’ll know it was all worth it.
And that’s a wrap! 📸✨ What an unforgettable session with Makhia. From the stunning Arizona landscapes to her infectious energy, it was a day to remember. Here’s to celebrating the end of high school and the exciting adventures that lie ahead! Cheers to making memories that last a lifetime. 🌵🌞🎓
