Senior Portraits with Instruments: Capturing Your Musical Passion

Senior Portraits with Instruments?! When a senior shows up for their session with an instrument, I can barely contain my excitement. Incorporating an instrument into your portrait session adds a timeless and deeply personal touch. We get to tell the story of your dedication, artistry, and passion for music.

Why Choose Senior Portraits with Instruments?

I’m a huge believer that your senior portrait should reflect your interests, personality, and passions. Including an instrument in your session:

• Showcases a meaningful part of your life – Your instrument has been a companion through years of practice and performance. If you’re anything like the musicians I know, you spend hours each and every day with your instrument. 
• Creates a visually stunning portrait – Instruments open up a whole new level of poses and personality.
• Adds a storytelling element – Whether in a grand outdoor setting or a cozy studio, your portrait becomes a powerful artistic statement.

Top Locations for Musical Senior Portraits in Salt Lake City & Beyond

I love choosing locations that lend themselves well to the aesthetic of your instrument. If you’re planning to bring it, let’s make sure to chat before your session to choose the perfect backdrop. Some interesting and captivating locations are:

• The Utah State Capitol – Classical architecture provides a refined, grand setting for elegant portraits.
• Mountains – A natural wonder in the Wasatch Mountains, perfect for dreamy, outdoor shots with string instruments.
• Red Butte Garden – A lush, colorful landscape that pairs beautifully with wooden instruments like violins and cellos. (Heads up – they require an additional usage fee and reservation.)
• Downtown Salt Lake City – Urban and edgy, great for saxophone and guitar players who want a modern aesthetic.

Here are some tips for your session

1. Choose a Great Outfit

Choose an outfit that complements your instrument and the location. But most importantly, it should compliment YOU and how you feel while you’re playing:

• Formal attire, such as a long flowing dress or tailored suit, pairs beautifully with classical instruments like the harp or violin.
• Casual, stylish outfits work well for modern instruments like the guitar or saxophone. 
• Stick to neutral or jewel tones to ensure the focus remains on you and your instrument.

2. Clean Your Instrument

A well-maintained instrument enhances the quality of your portraits – and prevents costly retouching. Make sure to:

• Polish wooden instruments to reduce glare, fingerprints, and rosin build-up.
• Replace any worn strings or reeds.
• Bring extra accessories, such as a bow or stand, for more posing options.

3. Work with a Professional Photographer (who is also a musician) like me!

A luxury senior portrait experience is best captured by an expert photographer who understands lighting, angles, and composition. I specialize in high-end senior portraits and I’ve also studied music my whole life (piano, violin, & mandolin) and can artistically incorporate your instrument into the shoot. We’ll make sure to use a variety of poses: 

• • Candid Playing Shot – Capture an authentic moment as you play a piece on your instrument.
  • Elegant Seated Portrait – A dramatic shot featuring you seated gracefully with your harp, cello, or violin.
  • Close-Up Details – Highlighting your hands on the strings, keys, or bow for an intimate touch.
  • Personality Shots – The possibilities are endless and we’ll work together to bring both of our visions to life.