I’ve mentioned before how much I love seniors who want to include an activity in their senior portrait session. Whether it’s bringing an instrument, football, or a letterman jacket, it’s a fun way to break up the session. And if your activity doesn’t have an actual object, the location can show your interest. For example, the stage! I’ve been photographing the productions for Avonworth High School’s Drama department over the past few years. It started as a way to capture my daughter as she stepped out of ballet and into musical theater. Since then, each year, I photograph dress rehearsal and the cast photo for a lobby display and social media promotion.

And I was beyond excited when one senior actor wanted to do his photos onstage in the school auditorium.

In November, after performing Moon Over Buffalo, we took over the auditorium for some dramatic senior portraits.

After some simple shots, we got more creative.  

Last year, he gave a remarkable (and Kelly Award-nominated) performance as Sweeney Todd in Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. He was excited to capture his signature pose from the show (below, left).  Then, having just completed Moon Over Buffalo, I couldn’t resist turning one of my lights into the “moon.” (below, right) Finally, he had just auditioned for this year’s show, The Phantom of the Opera, so we did a “hopeful” shot as Phantom.  (He got the role, and you should all come and see the show at Avonworth High School, March 26-28th)

And just last week, I learned that he won the Prime Stage Awards for Best Actor for his Moon Over Buffalo performance.  This kid is so talented, but also incredibly kind and fun to work with.  

After a few more on stage, we decided to take some photos in the audience, and I captured one of my all-time favorite shots ever.

This was such a fun and challenging session!  If you’re a theater kid or performer, I definitely recommend getting creative with your senior portraits.   There are so many possibilities.

I can’t wait to be back in March, photographing the cast and crew of Phantom as they get ready for their show. 

If you’re a high school senior or soon-to-be senior, I would love to talk about senior portraits with you!  And if you’re connected with a high school drama program, I would be happy to talk about creating great images to document your performances.