How to Pick the Perfect Senior Photo Location
Senior year is a big deal. Between finals, football games, prom planning, and about seventeen “lasts” happening all at once, it can feel like a whirlwind. But when it comes to your senior photos? That’s your chance to hit pause and capture who you are right now—your vibe, your style, your personality.
One of the biggest choices you’ll make for your senior session? The location.
The right spot can make your photos go from “nice picture” to “oh my gosh, that’s SO you.” So, let’s talk about how to pick a location that feels amazing and photographs beautifully—whether you’re in Woodinville, Redmond, or Bothell, WA.
Step One: Where do you feel your best?
Think about the places where you feel most comfortable. Is it curled up with a latte at your favorite coffee shop? Out on a hiking trail with your favorite playlist blasting? Hanging out in your backyard hammock?
Your senior photo session should feel like an extension of your life—not a stiff, posed “photo day.” If you love being surrounded by books, we can make magic in a cozy library. If you light up around water, the Sammamish River Trail or Bothell Landing Park could be the spot.
Step Two: What can you do there?
The best locations give us options. I’m talking leaning-against-a-fence vibes, sitting-on-a-staircase shots, walking-through-a-field moments… you get it.
Ask yourself:
Is there variety in the scenery (trees, walls, benches, bridges, buildings)?
Will we have places where you can relax naturally instead of standing stiff as a board?
Can we move around without running out of backdrops too quickly?
If you’re not sure—don’t stress. That’s where I come in! Part of my job as a senior photographer in Woodinville, Redmond, and Bothell is knowing which spots have great variety so you don’t end up with 40 photos of you standing in the exact same spot.
Step Three: Let’s Talk Lighting
I know—you probably don’t spend your weekends geeking out over lighting. (That’s my job. :-) ) But here’s the deal: the sun can either be your BFF or your biggest challenge.
Direct overhead sunlight? Harsh shadows, squinty eyes, and no one’s favorite look. But soft golden light around sunset? Pure magic.
When we pick a location, I’ll help make sure it has good light options—open shade from tall trees, the glow of golden hour, or even some cool moody shadows if you’re into artsy vibes.
Location Inspiration for Senior Photos in Woodinville, Redmond & Bothell
Not sure where to start? Here are some tried-and-true favorites that work beautifully for senior portraits:
Downtown Woodinville – cute coffee shops, murals, and a modern vibe.
Redmond Town Center + nearby trails – fun mix of urban and natural backdrops.
Bothell Landing Park – bridges, river views, and plenty of greenery.
Local coffee shops – Sidekick is a great cozy coffee shop! Where do you like to get your caffeine on? We can head there!
Your own backyard – especially if you’ve got a hammock, garden, or tree swing. We just want to make sure you aren’t looking straight into the sun for your photos.
Campgrounds or trails – the Pacific Northwest is basically one big photo studio. Do you have a favorite spot?
Libraries or bookstores – for the bookworm senior who wants cozy, thoughtful shots. I have done several sessions at libraries and they are so fun! The Seattle Library has amazing architecture too if you want to lean into that!
School stadium or stage – for athletes, musicians, or anyone wanting a little school spirit. We can hit the field and get some action photos or shots on the bleachers. All are great options!
The Bottom Line…
Your senior photos should feel like you. Whether that’s barefoot in the grass, sipping iced coffee, or striking a pose on a downtown street corner—there’s a location that fits.
And don’t worry—you don’t have to figure it all out alone. I’ll help you choose a spot in Woodinville, Redmond, or Bothell that has the right mix of variety, comfort, and gorgeous light. Together, we’ll make your senior session a memory worth keeping.
So… ready to start planning your session? Let’s find your perfect backdrop and capture this amazing season of your life.