This trail is a dream location!
Senior Pictures during the California Superbloom
Halfway between Orange County and Palm Springs lies this little trail tucked in the mountains of Riverside called Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park. I searched for it on Google maps and virtually scouted a place for us to meet for senior pictures that wouldn’t be too far for either of us. The area looks brown and blah with a few rocks, but during our spring season of 2023 with the California superbloom, the trail was alive with wildflowers. I could barely contain my excitement to find such a gorgeous place for photography for this senior from Mission Vista Academy.
She wore a new dress of brilliant blue with yellow embellishments and it couldn’t have been better for this location. This senior is calm and so easy to chat with, conveying her sense of determination and comfort with the world.
Many people feel uncomfortable when they step in front of my camera for the first time. I feel the same way when it’s my turn to have my photo taken. I put her at easy by letting her know I would prompt her on how to stand, where to put her hands and arms, but also that she could smile or relax her face and give me any look she liked.
We found ladybugs! So many ladybugs. Small ones and baby ones, and larvae not quite red with their distinctive ladybug shell. The cute young kid inside this senior blossomed as she searched for the beautiful bugs and blew one away on a wish.
What did I say to elicit such a laugh? Well, I will save the funny joke for when you step in front of my lens and I can capture your beautiful face full of mirth.
Package A of my senior portrait packages allows for a clothing change and extra time. We drove a quick five minutes to our second location which had a breathtaking view of the sunset overlooking Riverside.
This senior’s mom gasped with delight when she realized she had her senior pictures taken in a similar pose on a hill with the sunset behind her. I really hope I can see that fun photo someday! Congratulations to you H! You are such a delight to spend time with. Your quiet grace and confidence glows from you. I will see you and cheer you on at graduation!
