Some sessions just click. This was one of them. Becca came in with a clear vision for her senior portraits and this boho inspired look with a wide brim hat, white lace top, and wildflowers everywhere turned into one of my favorite sets in a while.
She trusted the process and that made all the difference. We started wider to establish the scene and the vibe, and then I knew I had to get in close. The details in this look were too good to leave in the background.
Then we moved into the tighter closeups and this is where things got really interesting. When you have a subject who knows how to hold a gaze and you are shooting at f/1.4 on an 85mm, the result is just electric.
Behind the Lens: How This Session Was Lit
For the photographers reading this, here is exactly how these images were made.
Lighting Setup
Single light setup for this entire session. One strobe, one modifier, placed and shaped intentionally to complement the natural ambient already in the scene. Simple is not the same as easy. Knowing where to put one light and why is a skill, and these images are proof you do not need to overcomplicate it.
Strobe: Westcott FJ250
Modifier: Westcott Joel Grimes Beauty Dish
Light Stand: Cheetah Stand C10
Camera Settings
Lens: 85mm
Aperture: f/1.4
Shutter Speed: 1/640 sec
ISO: 50
That shutter speed at ISO 50 tells you I was fighting the ambient and winning. The strobe is doing the work on her face while the fast shutter keeps the background from blowing out. That separation and that clean background glow is not an accident.
Why the 85mm for Senior Portraits
The 85mm is one of the most flattering focal lengths for portrait work, especially for closeups. At f/1.4 you get subject separation that makes the person pop off the background in a way no preset or edit can fake. For senior portraits where you want someone to feel like the main character, this lens delivers every single time.
Book Your Senior Session
Senior portraits are a one time thing. You only get this season once and the images from it should reflect who you actually are. I am based in Orlando and available for senior sessions throughout Central Florida. If you are ready to create something you will still love 10 years from now, let's talk. Fill out the contact form and let's start planning your session.
