The Ideal Match: How Personality, Outfits, and Location Come Together for a Senior Session

Class of 2026 senior Rachel had a session that was perfectly matched to her personality — and that’s exactly why choosing the right location is so important.

This session was 18 years in the making! I’ve been friends with her parents since before she was born, so watching her grow up into a confident, joyful young woman has been such a privilege. While I never expect friends to hire me for their kids’ senior photos, it’s always an incredible honor when they do — and Rachel’s shoot was nothing short of special.

Step One: Getting to Know You

Every senior session with Photography 144 begins with a simple questionnaire. It helps me get to know who you are — what you love (and don’t love), and how you want to feel during your session. From there, we meet to plan the details — especially your location.

your personality, your interests, and the vibe you want your photos to reflect.

Even when I already know a senior personally, I come into planning with a fresh perspective. I don’t want to assume what someone wants — I want to discover it with them.

When Rachel described herself as “go-with-the-flow,” with a style that was both sophisticated and beachy, I immediately knew the perfect spot to bring that blend to life.

A Downtown Sewickley Start: Sophisticated & Playful

We began in downtown Sewickley, surrounded by charming storefronts, manicured doorways and gardens, and beautifully textured backdrops. Rachel’s bold blue romper stood out perfectly against the clean, classic setting — giving her portraits a polished, confident feel. Bold outfit choices popped beautifully against those textures — especially this incredible blue romper.

Then she changed into her second outfit — an awesome pink top — we shifted gears to show off her fun, relaxed side. Different poses and props helped bring out her personality, and the result was bringing out her fun-loving energy and playful side.

Then of course, we had to include something close to her heart: her time on the Chartier’s Valley   Charvalettes dance team. For that, I focused on a simple white building that let her letterman jacket shine — and those blue tones tied everything together, even pulling out the color in her eyes.

Into the Fields: Natural Beauty at Sewickley Heights Park

Next, we drove over to Sewickley Heights Borough Park, one of my favorite outdoor session spots. With its tall grasses, open fields, and phenomenal sunsets, it offers a natural, dreamy contrast to the more structured downtown look.

Rachel’s first dress — a flowing blue one — stood out beautifully against the soft greens of the park, and we kept her poses simple to highlight her easygoing nature.

For her final look, a classic white sundress, we leaned into her dancer’s heart. She twirled and moved freely as the sun dropped, and we were able to capture her grace and create moments that felt completely her.

Why the Right Location Matters

Choosing the right location isn’t just about finding a pretty spot — it’s about finding a setting that feels like you.

When your outfits, personality, and location all work together, the results are effortless. Your session flows naturally, your smiles are genuine, and your images tell a story that’s authentically yours.

Rachel’s session was the perfect reminder: it’s not just about where we shoot or what you wear — it’s about finding the place where you can be you.

Planning Your Own Senior Session?

If you’re a Class of 2027 senior and want photos that truly reflect who you are, I’d love to help you find the perfect match of location, wardrobe, and style.

📍 Based in the Greater Pittsburgh area, I help seniors create meaningful, relaxed sessions that showcase their personality in every image.

👉 Reach out today to start planning your senior experience with Photography 144 — where your story takes center stage.

Take care of yourself!

Angela