Timber Lake Senior Photographer: Brittany Schnell

Alyssa’s senior session was photographed at the beginning of September. We had a few specific locations in mind- the lake, trees and sunset were all on our todo list!

Little Moreau State Recreation Area

The Dock & Trees

One of the most beautiful, hidden locations in the entire state: Little Moreau Sate Recreation Area boasts a flowing lake, rolling hills and lush greenery.
We started down on the dock- Alyssa chose this flowy, floral dress that pairs perfectly with the colors around her. I love seeing the wind in the movement of her hair and dress. Alyssa looks like she’s going on vacation or an adventure. I want to go too.
The lush greenery in the state recreation area is a photographers dream. I love all the vines, trees and grass. Even in September, when the winds are blowing super hard and the temperature has begun to drop, this foliage holds is color and stamina.
I could spend hours here, and admittedly, I might have spent a little too much time here. It’s that great of a location!!

Stop To Smell The Flowers

Alyssa’s yellow top was the first thing to stand out to me with her next outfit. I knew right away we would need to try to incorporate these yellow wildflowers in her portraits. Have you ever seen these things growing? They aren’t that tall and are a little awkward to photograph- but I knew we could do it.
By coming down to the flower’s level, Alyssa and I can make them feel larger than life. I’m not going to pass up the opportunity to shoot with them next year either. What a great find!
I also think milk weed would be super great in photographs. What do you think?

The Bridge

There’s a small bridge right before the dock that has some white painted rails. It’s leading lines make it a wonderful place to take photos.

The Sunset

Just as we were heading out of the Rec area, the sun was setting. I’m sure Alyssa and I saw it in our rear view mirror and both pulled over at the same time. We didn’t think we would have a sunset from the extra heavy cloud cover but there was a small opening in the clouds. Perfect!

Blue Hour at The Timber Lake High School

Man, that sun sets fast. By the time we got to the school, it was blue hour- a foreign time of shooting for me- but I was having so much fun that I wanted to keep shooting Alyssa’s final outfit. She chose a pair of ripped jeans and white top, a classic duo.
I’m actually super proud of how these last photos turned out. My main camera body has a 42 MP sensor. This means that it makes incredibly sharp & detailed images that you could print anywhere- on a refrigerator magnet, a 5x7 inch print or a 20 foot tall billboard. In order to make a detailed photo, my camera requires a lot of light. When the light isn’t all there, I get this grainy effect- which is actually pretty sweet. It gives Alyssa’s senior photos a retro vibe. I’m here for it!
But, I also want to be able to take better photos in low light. I have my eye on a camera with a 24 MP sensor that I’ll be adding to my kit shortly.

Thank you, Alyssa for inviting me to your town for senior pictures. I had a blast with you and only wish we had more time together! I feel grateful and honored to have been invited back to Timber Lake so soon after my first session there and hope to continue to serve your community.
I hope the remainder of this year is wonderful for you <3

Alyssa D | Timber Lake Class of 2021