Senior photos in downtown Sioux Falls, SD. See Owen’s urban senior session and get tips to make your own senior portraits stress-free + authentic.

 

Person in black shirt and khaki pants sitting on grass with green corrugated wall background.

A Road Trip for Senior Photos


Owen and his mom made the trip up from Sioux City, Iowa to downtown Sioux Falls for his senior session, and from the very start, I knew we were going to have a great evening. His request? A simple, more urban vibe — and downtown Sioux Falls was the perfect setting.

A series of casual portrait shots showing someone in a black t-shirt reclining against a gray wall and dirt ground.
Person in black t-shirt and khaki pants stands against dark wall in sequence of minimalist portrait poses.

Pro Tip: Glasses Without the Lenses


One of the first things that impressed me was how prepared his mom was. She showed up with a set of glasses frames without lenses — game changer! If your senior wears glasses, this is such a small but mighty tip. It keeps us from fighting with unwanted glares, makes editing easier, and most importantly, lets your senior’s eyes shine through. Highly recommend this little trick for any future sessions.

Student wearing glasses sits at wooden desk in library study area with natural lighting coming through windows.

Weathering the Storm (Literally)


The forecast that night wasn’t looking ideal — rain clouds circled us and the threat of a downpour loomed. Luckily, we only felt a few sprinkles, and the overcast skies gave us such a rich backdrop. We wandered the area of 8th & Cherapa, which is truly a gold mine for variety. In the span of an hour, we found multiple textures, backdrops, and urban corners to match Owen’s laid-back vibe. He wanted to keep things simple, and I think we nailed it.

A casual portrait of someone wearing a white t-shirt, glasses and dark pants standing with hands in pockets.
A person in a white t-shirt and dark pants reclines against a stone wall in an artistic outdoor portrait series.

A Happy Mom’s Words


Even better? Mom was thrilled when she received the finished gallery. She shared this sweet testimonial:


“If you are looking for an amazing photographer who is not only patient but fun-loving and will get all the best smiles, you need to work with Larissa. She made it look so easy to get natural smiles and poses from a teenage boy! After the session we had tons of great photos to choose from and she made the process so simple. The experience has made this momma’s heart so happy! We will definitely be capturing more memories with East River Pines Photography.”


Comments like this are exactly why I love photographing seniors. It’s not just about the images — it’s about giving both the senior and their family an experience that feels fun, comfortable, and memorable.

Person in black t-shirt and khaki pants sits casually on concrete ledge in outdoor setting.

Quick Tips for Making the Most of Your Senior Session


  1. Bring frames without lenses if you wear glasses. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.
  2. Plan outfits that feel like you. Seniors always look most confident when they’re comfortable. Mix casual + polished for variety.
  3. Props tell your story. Whether it’s a sports jersey, instrument, or even a car — props can make your photos uniquely yours.
  4. Location matters. Downtown Sioux Falls is a favorite of mine because one block can give you five different looks. But your location should match your vibe — urban, natural, or both.
A person in a white t-shirt and dark pants sits on concrete steps near a bridge in soft evening light.

What Matters Most


Sessions like Owen’s are such a reminder that senior photos don’t have to be complicated to be special. Once we lock in outfits, props, and a location that fits the senior’s personality, the rest falls into place. And when the gallery is delivered, it’s the best feeling to know families will treasure these images for years to come.


Ready to plan your own senior session? Let’s make it official — contact me here.

book your session here