The 5 Best Locations to take Creative Senior Pictures in Alexandria, Virginia

My clients aren’t sure exactly where is the best place to have their senior portraits taken. That’s why I put together this list of creative locations so you can spark some ideas that will be perfect for your senior portraits. I want everyone to have pictures that let your senior’s personality and creativity shine and have real meaning for you and your family.

Here is a list of my favorite spots to take senior photos!

• Best Location for Athletes

• Best Location for Creatives

• Best Location for Animal Lovers

• Best Location for Quiet Kids

• Best Locations for Book Worms

1. High School Grounds

So many of my clients don’t consider the possibility of having portraits taken at their senior’s high school. But this can be a fantastic location for senior photos because the place will always hold a lot of memories for them! There are usually a ton of creative locations available both outside the school (sports field, gardens, bleachers, a favorite landmark, the grounds) and even inside (think the gym!). Think about your senior’s hobbies, clubs, sports teams, or favorite hangouts. These lend themselves really well to great senior portraits that will also have meaning.

2. Sports Fields

Does your senior play a sport? This is a great opportunity to capture their talents and passion in action. Depending on the sport, you can use your high school’s sports field, practice location, gym, golf course, pool, or ice rink! When you are scheduling your photoshoot, make sure to look into the opening and closing times for the location, when it will be in use for practice or closed for games. Sometimes your shoot is better off on a weekday when the school is open so that you have access to locations that would be locked on the weekend.

3. Old Town Waterfront

There are so many great locations in Old Town that also might have meaning for you and your family. The Waterfront is a beloved spot where many teens spend time with both family and friends. There are many picturesque spots and you can get a lot of variety in locations along the water, from the white pier at the Torpedo Factory, Founders Park, Windmill Hill Park, Waterfront Public Art, to the turquoise Chart House, to the brick pathways along the water winding through gardens.

4. Historic Old Town

Historic Old Town: There are so many beautiful buildings and alleyways that personify Alexandria. From the amazing views at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial Temple to the cobblestones of Captains Row, Wales Alley on Lee Street, or Carlyle House, there are many great locations that will look fabulous in senior pictures and family portraits. There are also several brightly colored murals, walls, and interesting doors that can give your senior photos a pop of vibrant color.

There are a few spots to note that require

5. A favorite local park

Another great idea is to have portraits done at a favorite spot where your family has great memories in. Your park down the street might not have the grandest or majestic views, but these places hold special meaning for you and the pictures will remind you of those great times you have spent there. And it’s possible to get great photos in any location!

At home. Does your family have a beloved pet at home? At-home senior portraits are a great opportunity to take pictures with your furry family member who might not otherwise be able to join your senior’s portrait session. Your home also offers opportunities for your senior to capture their talents, hobbies, or collections. Musicians can take pictures with their instruments, a collector can share their collections, or showcase a favorite hobby.

There’s no wrong answer when choosing a location for your senior portraits!

I’m an Alexandria, VA based photographer working with seniors in the DC area. Learn more about me or request information about your senior photography.