As a Mercer Island senior photographer, I love working with Mercer Island High School seniors to create portraits that reflect their personalities. Choosing the right location plays a huge role in setting the tone for your session. Whether you want something classic, modern, or uniquely you, Mercer Island and the surrounding areas offer stunning backdrops for your photos.
If you love the water, Mercer Island has some of the most scenic waterfront views in the Seattle area. Luther Burbank Park is a favorite for Mercer Island High School senior portraits, offering breathtaking lakefront backdrops, a dock, and even a beachy vibe. The golden-hour glow on the water creates a dreamy, natural light effect. Whether you want a relaxed, barefoot-in-the-sand look or something polished with the Seattle skyline in the background, waterfront locations are always a beautiful choice.
For Mercer Island High School seniors who love a more natural setting, open fields provide a simple yet stunning backdrop. The tall grasses, wildflowers, and golden light make these spots feel effortlessly beautiful. Fields allow for a variety of poses and movements, giving portraits a carefree, timeless feel. One of the best parts about shooting in open fields is how the changing seasons create different moods—lush greens in the spring, golden tones in the summer, and a warm, rustic feel in the fall.
If you love flowers and greenery, gardens are a great choice. From manicured botanical gardens to hidden pockets of blooms around Mercer Island, these locations add a pop of color and texture to your portraits. Soft, natural light filtering through the trees creates a flattering glow, and the variety of flowers in bloom can bring out different moods in your photos. Whether you want a fairy-tale setting or a fresh, springtime feel, gardens provide a beautiful and elegant atmosphere.
For Mercer Island High School seniors who have spent years on the field or in the gym, incorporating a sports-related location can make your senior portraits even more personal. Whether it’s the football field, basketball court, or track, these locations capture the dedication and passion you’ve put into your sport. Bring along your uniform, letterman jacket, or a game ball to add a personal touch. Nighttime stadium shots under the lights can also create a dramatic and unique look.
If you love a modern city feel, downtown and urban locations are great options. Whether it’s Mercer Island’s town center or a trip into Seattle, these settings offer brick walls, alleyways, coffee shops, and rooftop views for a cool, edgy vibe. Urban environments allow for a mix of bold, dynamic shots and softer, more casual moments. If you want to incorporate your favorite café, record store, or street art, downtown areas give you endless possibilities for creative photos.
Choosing the right location for your Mercer Island High School senior portraits is all about finding a place that feels like you. Whether you’re drawn to the waterfront, a dreamy garden, or the energy of the city, there’s a perfect spot to capture this milestone moment.
As a Mercer Island-area senior portrait photographer, I love helping seniors create portraits that feel natural, fun, and completely their own. If you’re ready to plan your Mercer Island High School senior session, let’s find the perfect backdrop and make some unforgettable memories!