Senior portraits should reveal more than just a student’s physical appearance; they should capture their essence at this specific moment in their lives.

For Brandon, a senior at Chelsea High School and a Tecumseh resident, that meant heading to downtown Detroit and making ballet the centerpiece of his photo session.

And it wasn’t just a quick dance pose before moving on to the next thing.

Ballet-themed senior portraits at the Detroit Institute of Arts

The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) provided an incredible setting for Brandon’s ballet photos. The marble walls, grand staircases, and classical architecture created a clean backdrop that kept the focus where it belonged: on Brandon and his movement.

We captured a mix of controlled ballet positions and leaps, including one of my favorite shots from the session, where Brandon’s shadow traces his movement across the marble wall.

Then, we went big.

Photographing Brandon mid-air, with the DIA’s imposing main entrance in the background, resulted in an image that blends dance and Detroit in a way completely different from traditional senior portraits.

That was exactly what we were aiming for.

More than just a dance photoshoot

Of course, ballet is only one part of Brandon’s story. We also visited Belle Isle for more relaxed portraits with the Detroit skyline across the water. Later, we explored other downtown areas, utilizing brickwork, alleyways, and modern architecture to create entirely different visual styles.

Brandon also brought his viola. Instead of simply having him hold it for a portrait, we experimented with composition to weave it into the narrative.

A wardrobe change into a suit allowed us to showcase another side of the session. With downtown Detroit’s glass and steel as a backdrop, those portraits convey a polished elegance—a stark contrast to the ballet photos.

And yes, two stuffed monkeys even made an appearance because … why not?

Custom Senior Pictures Sessions

Sometimes, parents think they have to choose between the traditional portraits they want and the creative photos their teenager wants.

There is no need to choose. A personalized session can offer both.

Brandon’s session included ballet, violin, casual portraits, a suit, personal items and some unmistakably Detroit locations. Instead of trying to fit him into a standard senior picture formula, we built the session around him.

Want senior pictures that actually mean something? I’ll help you create a session that feels like you. Let’s plan something that tells your story and highlights where you’re headed next.

➡️ Visit our Senior Pictures pricing page for additional information.
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