Capturing Senior Memories: Ian’s Portrait Session at River Ridge

Last night, I had the pleasure of photographing Ian Wacker, a high school senior from River Ridge, Illinois. His session took place at his parents’ stunning 156-acre property, which offered a picturesque setting for his senior portraits.

The property featured rolling hills, lush pasture fields, a beautiful fish-stocked pond, and a cozy little cabin with paddle boats. It was the perfect backdrop for capturing Ian’s senior year memories.

Ian’s mom, grandma, and I started the session at the pond. Though Ian wasn’t initially excited about taking senior pictures, he quickly warmed up to the camera. He was a natural at posing, even though he didn’t think so. His relaxed and effortless demeanor made for some fantastic shots.

We utilized the pond for many of Ian’s photos, starting with some simple poses by the water. Then, we moved to the cabin, where we took advantage of the stairs, steps, and deck for more diverse shots. We also ventured onto the dock, capturing beautiful images against the serene water backdrop.

The evening was hot and humid, but the weather was otherwise perfect. The sun provided a warm glow until clouds rolled in, but not before we had captured all the images we needed. Ian had four great outfits that perfectly complemented his style, including a flannel shirt that was so him.

Towards the end of the session, we explored a little creek by the road and found two old road tubes that added a unique and rustic element to the photos. Ian’s mom was initially skeptical about using the tubes, but they turned out to be the perfect backdrop for his pictures.

I can’t wait to show Ian and his family the final results. His senior session was a blend of natural beauty, rustic charm, and Ian’s own unique style. It was truly a memorable evening.

Stay tuned for more highlights from Ian’s session and other exciting senior portraits!

Want to learn more about Sarah Monson, visit the About page! What to know some of my favorite senior session locations in Southwest Wisconsin, checkout the blog “Favorite Locations for Senior Sessions.”

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