Jennie Harless Jennie Harless

That time I…

gold foil balloons on white backdrop to celebrate a 10 year anniversary in business as a portrait photographer

This year marks TEN YEARS since I began my photography business!

I’m so grateful to all of my clients and friends for their support over the past decade.

I feel incredibly lucky to get to do what I love.

This past summer, I thought back on my experiences on photo shoots - taking photos of families, high school seniors, preschoolers - even dogs and cats. One afternoon, I took a deep dive into my blog, reading nearly every single post - and there are over 100 of them!

It was such a joy reliving it all, and I was filled with a great sense of satisfaction as well as deep gratitude.

From that reminiscent session, this list, “That time I…” was born.

Here are my top 10 memorable moments (in no particular order) as a photographer/business owner.

There was…
1- That time I nearly stepped on A SNAKE posing a client near a patch of colorful flowers along a road in the foothills. (Luckily, no one was hurt in the making of the image.) Do you remember that, Megan?

2- That time I left my MacBook Pro laptop open on my bed, and my young kids accidentally cracked the screen playing around on said bed. (That was an $800 fix; I may or may not have shed a few tears over it.)

3- That time I delivered a final gallery, and within five minutes, I had this response from the senior client in my email inbox: “This ate so hard. {five heart emojis} I LOVE THEMMMM!!!” (Not gonna lie; I had to “Google” that first sentence. Ha!)

4- That time a young boy stepped into a deep puddle along the Bear River, not once, but twice, during this photo session. His mom quickly yanked him up and out of the water, but his shirt and pants were drenched. (So thankful it happened at the end of the shoot! And thank you, Meredith, for your rapid responses.)

5- That time I asked a senior boy to sit on a downed log in Old Town Auburn, and unbeknownst to me, there was a colony of ants on the log. He popped up real fast! (I know you remember that, Tyler, because we just talked and laughed about it!)

6-  That time a client paid with a check, and I put the check into my pants’ pocket and then laundered the trousers. Total face palm! (Thank you, Amanda, for accepting my apology and writing me a new check.)

7- That time it rained on a family of four during their session in Auburn, and they all just rolled with it. The two sisters in their twirly dresses had THE best time! (Do you remember that, Elise?)

8- That time I photographed a family of five wearing matching handmade purple face masks made by mom. (Do I have that right, Karen?)

9- That time we celebrated Grandpa’s 70th birthday during an extended family photo session with cake, balloons, bubbles, and all!

10- That time I took photos of a family of four at Little Bear Tree Farm while they searched for the perfect Christmas tree. What a magical session that was - it even snowed on us! (We should do this again, Shannon!)

I can’t wait to see what the next decade brings!

With gratitude and laughter,

Jennie

Read More
Jennie Harless Jennie Harless

2026 Seniors | High School Senior Photographer

christian brothers senior high schooler standing in field holding 2026 cap at Bywater hollow lavender farm in Lincoln, california

Springtime is when I photograph most of my high school senior clients.

This March and April, I had the privilege of taking senior portraits for EIGHT wonderful seniors - and I loved every minute of it! (Well, except when we were getting eaten alive by mosquitoes in Pilot Hill…haha!)

Christian Brothers seniors and brothers stand shoulder to shoulder on the pathway in Royer Park in Roseville, California in the spring of 2026

First up were JONAH & BEN, kind and athletic twins from Christian Brothers High School. The boys and their mom met me at Royer Park in Roseville for their senior session, and I love that they brought along props - running medals for Jonah & a water polo ball and Letterman jacket for Ben. Mom even jumped into the frame for a picture with her handsome sons!

High school senior Olivia twirls on the grass in front the pond at Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm in Lincoln, California in the spring of 2026

Next up was OLIVIA, also a Christian Brothers’ senior. What a kind young woman and her mom was so sweet and patient! We did Olivia’s senior session at Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm in Lincoln- one of my favorite spots for senior photos!

Senior Nick leans against a split-wood fence at Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm in Lincoln, California in the spring of 2026

Meet NICK, an athletic and amiable Christian Brothers’ senior, who hopes to study mechanical engineering in college. Nick and his mom met me at Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm for his senior session. (I loved taking photos of his sister two years ago.)

Colfax High School Senior Maddie wears a long white dress while sitting on the wood dock at Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm in Lincoln, California in the spring of 2026

And then there was MADDIE, a determined and hard-working basketball stand-out from Colfax High School. I enjoyed getting to hang out with her and her mom for a few hours at Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm. (Her sister’s senior session was last year in Auburn!)

High school senior girl wearing a white dress sits in a grassy field in Pilot Hill, California

Next up was EMME, a smart and ambitious Whitney High Senior, who discovered this awesome location in Pilot Hill on social media. You can view more images here. (And I was lucky enough to photograph her sister 3 years ago.)

Antelope High School Senior Sydney poses next to a tree at Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm in the spring of 2026

Meet SYDNEY, a sweet and conscientious Antelope High School senior, who chose Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm, too. Sydney brought her “senior” dog along, so we could capture a few pics of the two of them. So special!

My eighth senior (who was actually a junior graduating early!) chose the Horton Iris Garden for her senior session. She prefers that I not share her images online, which I completely understand and respect. But for the record, she is very happy with her pictures!

Interested in getting on my calendar for spring 2027 senior portraits? Please send an email to: jennieharlessphotography@gmail.com or fill out my contact form here.

Read More
Jennie Harless Jennie Harless

Dear Senior Moms

Whitney high school senior wearing red Utah ute shirt poses in grassy field with mom holding Utah Utes pennant

It’s here, senior year! And I don’t have to tell you, it’s going to be a BUSY one!

One of the things you might be thinking about is senior portraits. And if this is your first senior, you probably have questions.

Christian Brothers senior girl wearing a white top poses with her mom at Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm in Lincoln, California

Having photographed over 25 high school seniors, I know a thing or two about what senior moms need to know to ensure their senior gets beautiful portraits.

So, let’s jump in…

1- First up, you need to know if your son or daughter WANTS senior portraits.

In my experience, some seniors definitely do (many have been dreaming about it since freshman year!), some are ambivalent, and others are not interested at all (mostly boys in this third group).

2- Secondly, once you know your senior is wanting portraits, you need to decide if you’d like to do it in the FALL or the SPRING.

Before deciding on your preferred season, keep in mind two things:

A) The yearbook deadline for photo submissions

and

B) Whether you can submit your own photo for the yearbook OR if you must use the school’s contracted photographer.

Some schools require you to submit your yearbook photo in the fall/winter (submission dates range from October to February).

For instance, at nearby Colfax High School, the deadline is typically in February - and you CAN submit your own senior picture. But at Del Oro High School just down the hill, students are required to use the school-approved photographer. (Reach out to the senior’s school to find out their requirements.)

Most of my seniors + moms choose April dates because the weather is a bit warmer than in March (sometimes there are more flowers, too!), and they still have plenty of time to get graduation invitations printed and mailed out to family and friends.

****If you are desiring a spring date, I recommend emailing your desired photographer NOW. I know, I know, it seems way too early, but remember, the most sought-after senior photographers will be booked up if you wait too long!

3- Lastly, you need to find a senior photographer whose photographic style you like and whose price point you’re comfortable with.

There are so many talented senior photographers in our area! Ask friends who have older kids for recommendations. That’s how most of my senior moms find me - through word-of-mouth referrals. Others, learn about me through my Facebook page or my website.

And I sure enjoy working with seniors + their moms every year! (During each senior session, I offer to take a picture of mom with her senior(s). Some take me up on it, while others decline.The moms above were all for it.)

Do you have other questions about the senior portrait process? Please send me a message; I’m here to help!


Jennie Harless is a portrait photographer who serves clients in three counties: Placer, Nevada, and Sacramento. Jennie offers high school senior portraits, 8th grade grad photos, and family portraits. To see more of Jennie’s work, check out her website, Facebook page or Instagram profile. Contact Jennie to book your session!

Read More
Jennie Harless Jennie Harless

Payton | 8th grade grad photos | Colfax portrait photographer

weimar hills eighth grade graduation photos in field in Colfax california

In May, I took photos of this lovely girl in Colfax. At the time, she was just about to graduate from eighth grade.

weimar hills eighth grade graduation photos taken in a field with setting sun in Colfax California

I’ve known Payton since elementary school, and I can’t believe how grown up she looks in these images!

weimar hills eighth grade graduation pictures taken in field in Colfax california

Payton is a hard worker and loves to play basketball and ride her horses. I’m so glad she thought to bring her cowboy hat!

Can we pause for just a moment and take in the beautiful Payton and the bokeh behind her? Lens nerd alert: My 85mm lens is THE best for bokeh! It’s definitely my go-to lens for eighth grade and senior portraits.

Weimar Hills school graduation photos in a field with the setting sun in Colfax, California

We had fun out in the country taking pictures as the sun set! It did get cold, though, so I lent Payton my jacket as we walked down to the barn area.

eighth grade girl leans against old barn which has an American flag on it

Love this old barn and the American flag hanging on it.

weimar hills school graduation photos in a field in Colfax california

Summer has flown by and in a little over a week, Payton will be headed to Colfax High School! I’m so glad Payton’s mom thought to capture this special time in her life.


Jennie Harless is a portrait photographer who serves clients in three counties: Placer, Nevada, and Sacramento. Jennie offers high school senior portraits, 8th grade grad photos, and family portraits. To see more of Jennie’s work, check out her website, Facebook page or Instagram profile. Contact Jennie to book your session!

Read More
Jennie Harless Jennie Harless

Emme | Senior Portraits | Pilot Hill Senior Photographer

high school senior lays in wildflower field at magnolia ranch trailhead in pilot hill, California

This strong and beautiful Whitney High School senior introduced me to a NEW location, which was SO fun! Emme learned about Magnolia Ranch Trailhead on social media, and when she suggested it, I was happy to go and check it out. (If you know me, you know I like to hike.)

This spot turned out to be a fantastic location for senior portraits - complete with grassy meadows, a few pockets of wildflowers, oak trees, hiking trails, and wooden fencing. (Next time, I will just bring bug spray…because the mosquitoes loved Emme. You’d never know, though, thanks to Photoshop! Ha!)

Emme had so many ideas for poses and props! She had definitely done her research and knew exactly what she wanted during her session. Emme is one of those people who knows what she wants and goes after it. Those qualities will serve her well at the University of Utah and beyond.

White dresses are SO popular right now with senior girls. And that color works perfectly in a meadow of green grass.

high school senior girl holds university of Utah pennant

Pennants are all the rage right now, too!

I’ve been lucky enough to know Emme’s family since she was five or six, and she has just blossomed into a lovely young woman. (I was thrilled to photograph her older sister, Katelyn, a few years ago, too.)

What a treat it was to take Emme’s senior photos in such a beautiful location!

I have a feeling future seniors will be requesting this location in Pilot Hill (just a 20-minute drive from Auburn), and I plan to add it to my location guide soon.


Have a son or daughter who will be graduating in 2027? Let’s chat about your vision for their senior session! Simply fill out my contact form here to get started.

Read More
Jennie Harless Jennie Harless

O Family Mini Session

Family of four pose for a photo standing in a grassy field surrounded by oaks and the setting sun coming through the trees.

For many years, I’ve taken photos of the O brothers, and each time I photograph them, it is such a joy to see how much they’ve grown and talk to them about their current interests. 

A 13-year-old boy poses for a headshot photo at a park in Roseville, CA in October of 2025.
Headshot of a boy standing in Veteran's Memorial Park in Roseville, California in the fall of 2025.

And this year, I was absolutely delighted when mom and dad jumped in front of my lens as well! Ah, the whole lovely O Family. 

We met up at Veteran’s Memorial Park in Roseville for our fall mini session.

The leaves were stunning (I love colorful fall leaves!), and the sun was so pretty. 

I’ve taken photos many times at this location, and it’s one of my favorites because it’s so versatile. There are the woodland areas (that are back lit - so key!), lots of green grass, a large log to sit on, walking paths, and a bridge.

A couple pose in the golden grass in Veteran's Park in Roseville, CA. They are surrounded by oak trees and the beautiful setting sun.

Would you believe this spot was literally 10 steps from the parking lot? We lucked out!

Mom laughs as she stands beside her two sons in Veteran's Memorial park in Roseville, California in the fall of 2025.
Mom smiles as she is surrounded by her two sons in Veteran's Memorial Park in Roseville, California in the fall of 2025.

I snapped away for 20+ minutes and had over 150 images! 

Now, you might think I’m the one who selects the best images. Nope, it’s the client! Sure, I first go through and delete those photos where someone in the family blinked as I pressed the shutter release button. But then I send you, the client, a gallery with the rest of your unedited images and you get to choose your favorites! After you’ve selected your favorites, I edit and polish your beautiful images and return them to you in 2 weeks or less. Easy peasy!

Interested in a mini session with me? My next mini sessions will be in the spring of 2026. Be the first to learn the date/times by subscribing to my newsletter here or following me on Facebook.


Jennie Harless is a portrait photographer who serves clients in three counties: Placer, Nevada, and Sacramento. Jennie offers high school senior portraits and family portraits. To see more of Jennie’s work, check out her website, Facebook page or Instagram profile. Contact Jennie to book your session! 

Read More
Jennie Harless Jennie Harless

2025 Seniors

high school senior girl wearing a floral dress holding her dog at Bywater hollow lavender farm

Every year, I look forward to photographing a new group of high school seniors! This year, I had the opportunity to photograph SIX unique high school seniors in the spring.

First up was MELANIE (pictured above) who brought along her sweet dog as well as her mom, dad, and older sister. (We took a few family pics at the end of her session at Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm in Lincoln.)

high school senior girl sits in a grass field with purple flowers around her at veterans memorial park in Roseville, california

Next, meet ZA’RAYA who brought along her basketball jersey and ball so we could take some fun shots of her spinning, shooting, and holding the ball at Veteran’s Memorial Park in Roseville. (I took senior photos of her older sister three years ago - repeat clients are THE best!)

high school senior girl wearing red gown and cap in old town auburn, California

And then came RAIN whose style was so refreshingly unique and authentic. This was one of my favorite images of her in Old Town Auburn. (I took senior pics of her older sister last year. I so appreciate families who come back to me over and over again!)

high school senior girl stands on steps to the courthouse with pink flowers blooming in the background in old town auburn, California

Meet OLIVIA. Olivia’s session was also in Old Town Auburn, and we lucked out with these beautiful pink blossoms in full bloom.

And, last but not least, SAM. I met Sam and her mom in Auburn for a short and sweet session. Sometimes, simple is best.

Some seniors and their families prefer not to have their images posted online. That was the case with Senior #6, and I completely understand and respect their decision.

Have a son or daughter who will be graduating in 2026? Let’s chat about your vision for their senior session and discuss possible dates. Simply fill out my contact form here to get started!

Read More
Jennie Harless Jennie Harless

B Family @ Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm

Family of four poses in front of the pond at sunset at Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm in Lincoln, California

What a fun family! It was a pleasure spending an evening with them at Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm in Lincoln. The son was a senior in high school, and mom really wanted to capture photos of her whole family before he graduated and joined the military. So, we took family photos + senior photos all in one session! That is a great option for seniors who just want a handful of images to commemorate their final year of high school.

High school senior boy sits on a rock in front of a pond during sunset at Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm in Lincoln, California

And we got lucky with this spectacular sunset!

mom and high school senior son lean against white horse fence at Bywater hollow lavender farm in Lincoln, California
siblings run together holding hands down the driveway of Bywater hollow lavender farm in Lincoln, California

These two were the cutest together!

older brother holds sister on his shoulders at Bywater hollow lavender farm in Lincoln, California
Mom dad brother sister hold hands while walking at Bywater hollow lavender farm in Lincoln, California
young girl poses for camera at a lavender farm in Lincoln, California

Such an adorable little girl!

high school senior boy smiles at camera while posing at Bywater hollow lavender farm
Family of four walk and talk at Bywater hollow lavender farm in Lincoln, California
Family of four at Bywater hollow lavender farm in Lincoln, California

As you may have noticed, Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm is quickly becoming my new clients’ favorite location! :)


Jennie Harless is a portrait photographer who serves clients in three counties: Placer, Nevada, and Sacramento. Jennie offers high school senior portraits and family portraits. To see more of Jennie’s work, check out her website, Facebook page or Instagram profile. Contact Jennie to book your session!

Read More
Jennie Harless Jennie Harless

B Family | Fall Mini Session

family of four stands on the Iowa hill bridge in Colfax, California and laughs at the dad in the family.

This family has been with me since the beginning (8 years!!), and I’m so grateful for their loyalty and support! I truly look forward to seeing them every fall and taking their family photos.

The B kids are close in age to my own children, so it’s been a total blast watching them grow and change and blossom.

young girl sits on a bridge in Colfax ca and smiles at the camera

This fall, they met me at the Iowa Hill Bridge in Colfax for a mini session.

Mom always does such a good job styling the family, selecting colors and clothing that look great together.

brother and sister pose on the Iowa hill bridge for photos during a photo session in Colfax, California

If you’re interested in a spring or fall mini session with me, be sure to sign up for my quarterly newsletter, so you’ll be the first to learn about the day/times available.


Jennie Harless is a portrait photographer who serves clients in three counties: Placer, Nevada, and Sacramento. Jennie offers high school senior portraits and family portraits. Contact Jennie to book your session! To see more of Jennie’s work, check out her website, Facebook page or Instagram profile.

Read More
Jennie Harless Jennie Harless

Royer Park Mini Sessions | S & Y Families

family of four standing on a bridge in Roseville ca near royer park

Every year, I chose a new location for my fall mini-sessions. Last year, in late September, I held mini-sessions at Royer Park in Roseville.

I love that Royer Park has this beautiful historic bridge as well as a tree-lined creek running through it.

The S family was fun to photograph in both spots!

high school boy standing near trees in Royer park in Roseville California
family of four standing on a Roseville bridge in Royer Park
high school boy stands near trees with light behind him in Royer Park in Roseville, California
family of four pose for photos during a photo session at rover park in Roseville, California in fall 2024

After I photographed the S Family, I took pictures of the Y Family. (The S Family and the Y family are related, so they booked back-to-back mini sessions.) This was a fantastic idea because it not only allowed me to take pictures of each individual family, but also both families together.

cousins standing in Royer Park in Roseville California

And of course, we had to take a “cousins” picture, too! (Hello easy peasy Christmas present for the grandparents! Just print, wrap, and give.)

mom with her son and daughter pose on a bridge in Royer Park in Roseville, California
dad spins daughter around dancing on a bridge in Royer Park in Roseville, California

I love that dad and daughter were both wearing Birkenstocks!

teenage boy posing for the camera during a family photo session in fall 2024 at royer park in Roseville, california

I hope to photograph these two families again soon!


Jennie Harless is a portrait photographer who serves clients in Placer County, Nevada County, and Sacramento County. Jennie offers high school senior portraits and family portraits. Contact Jennie to book your session! To see more of Jennie’s work, check out her website, Facebook page or Instagram profile.

Read More
Jennie Harless Jennie Harless

The A Family | Rose Session

three kids run under blanket outside at a family photo session in auburn, California

What a fun family of five! This mom was referred to me by one of her mom friends whose photos I’d taken recently. Seriously, that’s the BEST compliment ever for a photographer!

two year old boy stands under blanket in a field during a family photo session in auburn, california

We met up at this spot in Auburn for a fall family photo session. The older kids loved running under the blanket and this little guy was just in awe of it. (Made me think of my kids when they were little and they played “parachute” in gymnastics class.)

six year old boy sits on a stool and smiles at the camera during a family photo session in auburn, California
Family of five walks through field of grass at a family photo session in auburn, California

I loved the colors that Mom and Dad were wearing - the reds and browns worked so well for the season and location. I know I’ve said it before, but it bears repeating: Clothing color choices make such a difference in the look of your photos!

two kids run toward mom and dad in a field in auburn, california
Family of five poses in a grass field during a family photo session in auburn, California
two year old boy sits on a stool during photo session in auburn, california
sister and brother pose for the camera in a field in auburn, california
sister and brother pose in a field during a family photo session in auburn, California
family of five plays in a field during a family photo session in auburn, California

I hope to photograph this family again!


Jennie Harless is a portrait photographer who serves clients in Placer County, Nevada County, and Sacramento County. Jennie offers high school senior portraits and family portraits. Contact Jennie to book your session! To see more of Jennie’s work, check out her website, Facebook page or Instagram profile.

Read More
Jennie Harless Jennie Harless

The S Family | Rose Session

mom dad daughter  and dog pose for fall photos in their backyard in Colfax california

Photographing families at their homes is so special! This family invited me to their Colfax home in the fall, and we took photos all over their property. What a view from the backyard, right?!

husband wraps his arms around his wife as they stand in their Colfax California backyard with a forest of trees in the distance

Such a fun-loving family who cuddled and laughed and hugged and giggled throughout their entire photo session!

mom dad and daughter laugh and hug while posing for photos in their backyard in Colfax california
father and daughter hug standing in their backyard in Colfax California with a forest of trees in the distance
family of three plus dog crouch down in backyard in Colfax California

I loved that they included their sweet dog in some of the photos! (Their elderly cat even joined in for a few, too!) Funny story: Their dog was so well-trained that when I said “Cheese!” the dog would look straight at my camera for a few seconds. No joke. It was hilarious - and unbelievably helpful!


Jennie Harless is a portrait photographer who serves clients in Placer County, Nevada County, and Sacramento County. Jennie offers high school senior portraits and family portraits. Contact Jennie to book your session! To see more of Jennie’s work, check out her website, Facebook page or Instagram profile.

Read More
Jennie Harless Jennie Harless

Senior Sessions | Capturing your Personality

Rocklin high school senior swings at Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm in Lincoln while holding a small bouquet of flowers

With every senior session I do, my main goal is to capture the senior’s unique personality and interests. Props are a fun way to showcase talents + hobbies!

Two weeks before each senior session, I email out a questionnaire in which I ask questions like:

  • How would you describe your personality in three words?

  • What are your hobbies? What do you like to do for fun?

  • What props will you be bringing?

  • Do you have any specific poses in mind?

  • Is there anything special you’d like to do during your senior session?

By asking these questions, I hope to learn more about the senior and also get an idea of their vision for the session.

On Katherine’s questionnaire, she revealed that she loves to read and requested that we take a few photos in front of a book store. (Being a HUGE book lover myself, I was quite excited to do this!)

At her session, we took a few shots in front of Winston Smith bookstore in Auburn. (Unfortunately, they were closed; otherwise, I would have asked permission to take a few shots inside, too.)

Mia brought flowers to her Bywater Hollow session in Lincoln, and when I complimented her mom on bringing them, she said, “It was all Mia’s idea!” Love, love, love.

young woman sits in canoe on pond in auburn, California on a spring evening

Marissa brought her softball uniform, bat, ball and glove to her Roseville senior session. So fun!

Alayna loved taking pictures with her camera, so she brought it along to her Roseville session. And as you can see, I took a picture of her taking a picture! Haha!

high school senior girl taking pictures with a camera during senior session in Roseville

Caleb, who loves to cook and was working at a restaurant at the time, brought along a chef’s hat and coat, as well as cast iron pans to his Auburn senior session.

senior session in auburn with boy holding two cast iron pans and wearing a chefs hat

I’m always so impressed by my clients’ creativity and vision, and I try hard to incorporate as many of their ideas as possible!

{Now, if you’re a senior scrolling through this post and thinking, “But I don’t play a sport!” or “I’m not really a props-type person” that’s okay. I totally understand and there’s zero pressure to bring props to your session.}


Jennie Harless is a portrait photographer who serves clients in Placer County, Nevada County, and Sacramento County. Jennie offers high school senior portraits and family portraits. Contact Jennie to book your session! To see more of Jennie’s work, check out her website, Facebook page or Instagram profile.

Read More
Jennie Harless Jennie Harless

High School Seniors!

Senior portraits of a Whitney High School senior, all photos taken in the spring at Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm in Lincoln.

Where are you, high school seniors? I know it’s not even 2025 yet, but it’s time to book your spring SENIOR PORTRAIT SESSION!

I’ve photographed a few high school seniors each year for the past 3-4 years, and I’ve really enjoyed working with them. So, this past spring, I set a goal: To photograph 6 seniors in the months of March & April. And I did it!

I had the privilege of photographing SIX awesome high school seniors! There were three students from Rocklin High (one mom told another mom who told another - I’m so grateful!)), one from Whitney High, one from Antelope High and one from McClatchy High. And in the process of photographing all those seniors, I absolutely fell in love with senior photography!

Getting to spend time with each teen, one-on-one (and typically, their mom, too!) was super special. During the hour and a half we’re together, we moved from spot to spot, taking pictures and chatting. I’m the type who loves chatting one-on-one with people (that’s the introvert in me), and I also love variety, so I’m finding that senior sessions are a great fit for me.

And because senior sessions are a little longer than my family sessions, there’s plenty of time for 3+ outfit changes.

Four high school senior portraits of one young man, all images taken in Auburn, California. Antelope High School senior wearing orange shirt, UCSB sweatshirt, red cap and gown, and a black button down shirt.

Speaking of outfits, senior often ask: What should I wear? I advise you to bring 3-4 outfits, plus your cap and gown, if it’s available. The photos above illustrate some outfit possibilities. In general, it’s best to bring one casual outfit, one or two dressier outfits, a college shirt/sweatshirt (if applicable), and then your cap + gown.

What are you thinking you want to wear at your senior session?!

By the way, the first set of photos of Katelyn were taken at Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm (Lincoln/Auburn area, $50 fee to shoot there), and the second set of Tyler were taken in Old Town Auburn. Both great locations, but with very different looks.


Jennie Harless is a portrait photographer who serves clients in Placer County, Nevada County, and Sacramento County. Jennie offers high school senior portraits and family portraits. Contact Jennie to book your session! To see more of Jennie’s work, check out her website, Facebook page or Instagram profile.

Read More
Jennie Harless Jennie Harless

The C Family | Rose Session

Professional photos of a family of four with mom and dad and 2 young boys, all standing on the Iowa Hill bridge in Colfax.

I loved photographing this sweet family of four on the Iowa Hill Bridge in Colfax!

As I drove over to this location, it was sprinkling on my car. But I had been tracking the weather forecasts for several days, and I was praying that they were spot on, and that it would stop raining before the session. And wouldn’t you know…the rain stopped right before 4:00 pm!! So thankful we didn’t have to reschedule this session. (Side note: Clients often ask, What happens if it rains? Great question! If the forecast is calling for rain, we’ll have to reschedule. But if it’s going to be cloudy or sunny, the session is on!)

Professional photos of mom with her sons on the left picture and dad with his sons on the right picture. Photos taken on the Iowa Hill Bridge in Colfax.

I thought these images illustrate mom life vs. dad life. I know I’m generalizing here, and this is not always the case, but sometimes. Am I right?!

Family of four stands by the North Fork of the American River in Colfax.

I love this particular location because we can take pictures on the bridge AND by the river.

And on this particular day in November, the tree leaves were showing off!


Jennie Harless is a Northern California portrait photographer who serves clients in Placer County, Nevada County, and Sacramento County. Jennie offers high school senior portraits and family portraits. Contact Jennie to book your session! To see more of Jennie’s work, check out her website, Facebook page or Instagram profile.

Read More
Jennie Harless Jennie Harless

The C Family | Mini Session

I was SO lucky to get to photograph these three beautiful sisters during their family’s fall mini session at the Iowa Hill Bridge in Colfax!


Jennie Harless is a Northern California portrait photographer who serves clients in Placer County, Nevada County, and Sacramento County. Jennie offers high school senior portraits and family portraits. Contact Jennie to book your session! To see more of Jennie’s work, check out her website, Facebook page or Instagram profile.

Read More
Jennie Harless Jennie Harless

J Family

family of four pose in a field with yellow tree leaves behind them in a park in auburn, California

I loved meeting this sweet family from Lincoln and taking photos of them in the Auburn area. Mom wanted some fall color, and thankfully, this spot had some beautiful yellow leaves. These four are moving out-of-state shortly, and I wish them all the best in their new adventures in Idaho!


Jennie Harless is a Northern California portrait photographer who serves clients in Placer County, Nevada County, and Sacramento County. Jennie offers high school senior portraits and family portraits. Contact Jennie to book your session! To see more of Jennie’s work, check out her website, Facebook page or Instagram profile.

Read More
Jennie Harless Jennie Harless

A Family | Rose Session

mom and dad and two kids sit and stand in a park like setting posing for photos in the fall

This beautiful family has been coming to me for photos for the past three years. Generally, I see them for a mini Christmas session, so I have just 20 minutes with them. But this year, they opted for the Rose package instead. That meant I had 45 minutes with them! I’m SO glad we had that extra time together to capture the love they have for one another.

Two young girls sisters sit in a grass field in coyote pond park in Lincoln, California

Two sweet sisters!

Two sisters sit together hugging each other during a family photo session at coyote pond park in Lincoln California
family of four walks across a bridge in coyote pond park in Lincoln, California during a fall family photo session
Little girl in a dress runs under a blanket during a fall family photo session at coyote pond park in Lincoln, California

I even had time to pull out my blanket and let the oldest daughter run underneath it - several times! The blanket “game” is always a favorite with littles, and I delight in seeing all of their big smiles! Next year, sister can join in on the fun!

Couple hugging each other during a family photo session in coyote pond park in Lincoln, california

I also loved that we had time for a few photos of just mom and dad.

During a fall family photo session, a father holds his two young daughters in his arms and kisses his. youngest daughter on the cheek.

There’s something about Daddies and their daughters snuggling that gets me every time.

A family of four stands near the pond for fall family photos at coyote pond park in Lincoln, California

What a wonderful fall family photo session at Coyote Pond Park in Lincoln! I can’t wait to photograph this beautiful family again next fall.


Jennie Harless is a Northern California portrait photographer who serves clients in Placer County, Nevada County, and Sacramento County. Jennie offers high school senior portraits and family portraits. Contact Jennie to book your session! To see more of Jennie’s work, check out her website, Facebook page or Instagram profile.

Read More
Jennie Harless Jennie Harless

M Family | Rocklin

little girl blows a kiss to her stuffed bunny rabbit while standing in a field of golden grass and boulders on a hill in Rocklin, Califorrnia  in the fall

This sweet family drove an hour and a half to their photo session atop a hill in Rocklin! It was such a pleasure to finally meet this family of four.

As you can see, the little girl brought her special stuffed bunny rabbit with her, and we captured them together right before we wrapped up our session.

mom and dad hold their daughter and son upside down during a fall photo session on a hill in Rocklin, California

With young kids, I try to incorporate as much movement as possible. We play games, walk and holding hands, climb trees, run under blankets - you get the idea. The more I can get the kids (and adults) to move and interact with one another, the more FUN they’ll have! And as you can see, this family was all about FUN!

mom and daughter hug while sitting on a boulder in a field atop a hill in Rocklin, California
little boy sits in tree on a hill in Rocklin, California during a photo session
girl hangs from tree during a photo session in Rocklin, California
dad is throwing his young son into the air on a hill in Rocklin, California during a family photo session
kids-running-under-a-white-blanket-during-a-family-photo-session-in-rocklin-california
little-boy-peeks-out-from-behind-a-tree-while-playing-peekaboo-with-the-photographer-at-a-park-in-rocklin-california

This little guy liked to hide behind the tree and pop out!

young-boy-hugs-his-mom-at-a-family-photo-session-in-rocklin-california

And he loved cuddling with his mom.

family-of-four-poses-on-a-hill-in-rocklin-california-during-a-fall-photo-session

It was such an enjoyable session with the M family!


Jennie Harless is a Northern California portrait photographer who serves clients in Placer County, Nevada County, and Sacramento County. Jennie offers high school senior portraits and family portraits. Contact Jennie to book your session! To see more of Jennie’s work, check out her website, Facebook page or Instagram profile.

Read More
Jennie Harless Jennie Harless

Tori | Class of 2024

Redheaded young woman wears a blue dress and stands in a grassy field in a Rocklin park high atop a hill.

Oh, Miss Tori was so much fun to photograph! As you’ll see from some of the pictures below, Tori loved hamming it up for the camera - and her mom who was standing nearby. Her goofy facial expressions and antics had me laughing throughout her photo session.

Beautiful redheaded young woman wearing a light blue dress and standing in the grass in a Rocklin California park.

I’m a fan of glasses (I wear them, too!), and these spectacles look lovely on Tori.

When seniors are wearing glasses, I often ask if they want a few photos without them. Some do and some do not. And I get it, because without my glasses, I look really different. Plus, I’m practically blind without them! If the senior wants to wear their glasses in every shot, I try to shoot slightly above them or below them to reduce glass glare. And if that doesn’t work, there’s always Photoshop to the rescue.

A redheaded high school senior girl poses in a grassy field in a park in Rocklin, California

During her session, Tori was easygoing and up for trying any pose ideas I threw out like this one…play with your hair!

A beautiful redheaded young woman wearing a blue dress sticks her tongue out while standing in the grass in a Rocklin, CA park.

I can’t take any credit for this one; this was ALL Tori! Haha!

High school senior girl, funny face, cap, gown, blue, Rocklin high school, Rocklin park

And this was all Tori, too! I think Tori and her mom were making faces at each other. Haha!

Rocklin high school senior girl, posing in cap and gown, Rocklin park, senior session, spring 2024
High school senior girl wearing a blue graduation gown throws blue cap into the air atop a hill in Rocklin California.

I’m a fan of these throwing cap shots! But you should know that it’s never a one-and-done type thing. Generally, the senior throws her cap up in the air at least 3-5 times. That way, she can practice the movement a few times - since usually she’s never done it before!

A redheaded young woman, posing in grass field in Rocklin park for her senior portraits, spring 2024

Love this close-up of Tori!

red head teenager, senior portraits, Rocklin, California, Colorado University

Tori graduated from Rocklin High School and is now attending the University of Colorado. Here’s wishing her the absolute best in college and beyond!


Jennie Harless is a Northern California portrait photographer who serves clients in Placer County, Nevada County, and Sacramento County. Jennie offers high school senior portraits and family portraits. Contact Jennie to book your session! To see more of Jennie’s work, check out her website, Facebook page or Instagram profile.

Read More