Senior Studio Portraits for Performers | Lucia’s Drama-Inspired Shoot

I wasn’t a theatre kid in high school — I was a dancer and performer in a different way but it was a long while before I ever stepped onto a stage with a script. But after graduation, the theatre bug hit me hard. I started performing in regional theatre, eventually moved to Los Angeles for five years, helped launch a theatre troupe, produced shows, and did a little bit of everything while studying acting. Those years shaped so much of who I am today, and that creative energy has never left me. They also left me with a deep love and appreciation for all of the theatre kids that come my way.

Whenever I get a “theatre kid”, like Lucia, in front of my camera for a senior session, I know we’re going to have the best time. Performers understand movement, expression, and emotion in a way that makes photographing them pure magic. They catch onto posing faster than anyone else and bring such a natural flow to every shot.

Lucia was absolutely one of those seniors — a total dream to work with.

Starting in Historic Downtown Concord, NC

We kicked off her session in downtown historic Concord, and it could not have been a more perfect choice for her personality. The area has so much charm — brick textures, narrow alleys, old storefronts, and doorways with character. Lucia stepped right into the space like she’d been performing there for years.

As we walked through the alleys and down the sidewalk, she absolutely killed it with her natural expressions and effortless smile. Every direction I gave her clicked instantly. She moved with confidence, played with angles, and brought so much authenticity to the images. The energy, the colors, the textures — downtown Concord gave us that editorial, creative vibe that fit her style so well.

It was the perfect warm-up and set the tone for the rest of her session.

Finishing the Session in the Studio

After exploring downtown, we headed back to the studio to create a completely different kind of look. Studio portraits aren’t always the first thing seniors think of, but I wish more of them would consider it. There’s something powerful about stripping away distractions and letting personality take center stage.

And wow — Lucia showed up for these.

The clean backgrounds and controlled lighting allowed us to highlight her expressions, movement, and confidence in a way that felt both modern and timeless. She brought humor, intention, and just the right amount of drama (in the best way), and the images we created together feel so true to who she is.

A Senior Session That Celebrates Who She Truly Is

Lucia’s session was one of those shoots that reminds me exactly why I love photographing seniors — especially performers. She brought her full personality, creativity, and spark to every moment, and the images show it.
From the textured streets of downtown Concord to the clean, expressive portraits in the studio, we were able to capture every side of her.

Congratulations, beautiful girl. Keep chasing that big dream of yours — the world is absolutely ready for you.