There’s a lake in the middle of North Orange County

You might not think it at first, but Orange County has some great local parks that offer lovely locations for high school senior sessions.  Southern California offers everything from wooded areas and lakes to open spaces and wildflower fields that provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable senior photos.

I had the pleasure of working with Ally at a local Orange County park, and it was a beautiful afternoon. Ally is super laid-back and relaxed, which made our time together feel like a casual stroll through the park rather than a photoshoot. Her easygoing personality paired beautifully with the natural environment, and the park's charm only added to the magic of her session. We spent the afternoon exploring different spots, our favorite being near the water.

One thing I love most about photographing senior portraits at rural locations like this one in Orange County is the variety it offers. This park had a sweet little lake (really, it’s probably considered a pond, but in photos, it looks like a lake), a wooded forest, and open spaces with beautiful green backgrounds. It’s a hidden gem, not crowded, which allowed us to take our time and relax.

The lighting in the park was a dream. In the late afternoon, the golden hour cast a warm, ethereal glow off the trees on the other side of the lake. The sunlight filtered through the trees, creating a beautiful bokeh—a lovely background for portraits. This kind of natural lighting makes outdoor portraits special, adding a touch of magic that can’t be replicated in a studio. This is one reason I only photograph outdoors on location, usually in the last hour of the day or first thing in the morning. We also found some shaded nooks with soft and flattering light, giving a balanced contrast that allowed her personality to shine without distractions.

What’s wonderful about Orange County's parks is that they have something for every style. Whether you're looking for a beachy vibe with coastal grasses and ocean views or a woodsy feel with towering trees, there’s a park that will match the vision you have in mind. For Ally, the park we chose for her was perfect—it reflected her relaxed and down-to-earth personality while giving us a soft and natural backdrop.

Our local parks provide a unique blend of natural beauty and peaceful ambiance that transforms a typical portrait session into an unforgettable experience. As photographers, we’re always chasing that perfect balance of lighting, location, and connection with our subjects, and we found all three during this portrait session with Ally.

Sometimes, the most beautiful spots are right in your own backyard. If you're looking for a rural location to capture your senior portraits in Southern California, let’s work together to find a spot you’ll love. If you like what you see and are interested in a session with me, please reach out; I’d love to work with you!