When Libby and her mom came in for their consultation, they told me they were seriously considering a destination senior shoot in Charleston, SC. I can't even begin to tell you how excited I was to hear that! They had seen Eden's photos from our session there and loved them. Libby also has family in Charleston, so it just made sense! I met them at Gibson Salons who did a phenomenal job on her hair and makeup! Libby can pull off pretty much any look, but they matched her personality so well.
What I love most about Charleston is that I can use so many little spots that often go overlooked. Once she was all glammed up, we began at a more obvious spot to get started. And sure enough, like clockwork, people began to notice and tell her how gorgeous she was. Like yelling from across the street at a restaurant. Lol. So we got a few shots, and I made the decision to take her somewhere more secluded where she wouldn't feel so self-conscious. I found the cutest tucked away spots. Thankfully none of the neighbors seemed to mind that I used their insanely awesome stairs or the most adorable red door I've ever seen in my life.
One of the schools Libby was interested in was the College of Charleston, so naturally... just in case... we made our way onto their campus. We had to dodge some college tours and a random lady who just had to make her phone call on the better side of the stairs. But whatever. I make magic with whatever I have. And yes, after doing this for so many years, I occasionally will just own up that I'm good at what I do. Lol. But holy crap, LIBBY. I never got tired of photographing this girl. Every angle, every slight expression shift, every location... she was incredible. Perfection in front of the camera.
The campus is seriously so gorgeous. And the way the sunlight filters through those oak trees and Spanish moss. I'll never be able to get enough of my favorite city.
Another perk of photographing seniors for so many years? Having a contact with an awesome porch that overlooks the Holy City. ;) Kerry was one of my past Wildflower Model Team girls that's now attending the College of Charleston. She's so fun and was so nice to let us bombard her place and interrupt a good post-beach Gilmore Girls marathon. haha
Libby changed into this gorgeous black dress for these. And honestly, I think it really helped make her eyes pop! Look how insanely beautiful they are! After Kerry's, we of course had to hit the iconic Charleston Rainbow Row. The colors are so fun, and the outfit was perfect for this! And you know me, I had to find a random spot totally overlooked to use too. haha
Libby's one request was to incorporate Charleston's pineapple fountain at some point. And as with every senior, I won't let that one request go unless it's 100% unavoidable. I think most people assume these sessions go completely seamlessly. Nope. Parking near Rainbow Row was crazy pants. Sunset wasn't too far off, and we still had a 30 minute drive to our last location.
But dang it if I wasn't going to give her what she asked me for! Lol And look! We pulled it off! With a few minutes to spare and grab some images by that beautiful Charleston harbor. I'm sure she's probably tired of me telling her by now but red is Libby's color. This super cute dress was stunning on her and really made her stand out against the fountain and water.
And now the fun begins...
After shooting all day in Charleston, we drove down to my home away from home... Kiawah Island. My family has been vacationing here since I was a teenager. My parents have a cottage here. My boyfriend (turned husband) drove down to surprise me here for my senior trip. We now bring our kids here. So it always feels so full circle when I get to bring my seniors here. I share a little of myself with them, whether they realize that or not. This beach has inspired some of my most favorite photos I've ever taken. I'm so grateful I've gotten to add my seniors to that list.
Libby wore a stunning all white flowy, beachy outfit. I mean, it's pretty clear this girl could wear anything and look amazing, but this just fit the whole mood. And I loved that the simple white allowed her to be the star. We left that beach sandy, wet, tired, hungry, wind blown, and proud of what we created.
Hearing how happy she was at her ordering appointment was all I needed to make this whole trip worth it. Since then, Libby has been featured on multiple senior photography publications! Not surprised though. ;)
I seriously had the BEST time at Libby's Destination Senior Shoot in Charleston with both her and her mom! I will forever love this city as well, so anytime a senior asks me to go, I'm already looking up hotel rooms. haha.
As a sidenote, I want to thank my little sister (the original inspiration behind Wildflower Seniors) for assisting me that weekend. It was so fun getting to talk, laugh until my cheeks hurt, and celebrate a successful shoot with some mini Jeni's with Madison. And even better, my dad and stepmom were in town and treated us to brunch at The Sanctuary the morning of the shoot! I don't think I could've asked for a better way to spend a Destination Senior Shoot!
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