Best Friend Senior Photoshoot | Spreckels Organ Pavilion, Balboa Park

When you’ve known two best friends since middle school, seeing them prepare for graduation is a pretty special moment. So when I had the chance to photograph these two guys, now seniors in the Class of 2025, at the iconic Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park, San Diego, we decided to go all out. We wanted to capture not only their friendship but also an elevated, editorial vibe to match their style and the importance of this milestone.

Editorial Vibes at Spreckels Organ Pavilion

We started the shoot at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion, which gave us this incredible, classic architectural backdrop. The guys arrived in perfectly coordinated suits — sharp, sleek, and ready to channel that high-fashion, editorial look we were going for. The grandeur of the Pavilion complemented their look beautifully, and we captured some truly standout shots right there. The contrast between the formal outfits and the timeless Pavilion structure gave the photos an effortlessly chic vibe.

After wrapping up the first set of shots, we made our way through Balboa Park, stopping near the United Nations area. You wouldn’t expect much from the surroundings near the bathroom area, but trust me, the greenery there is stunning. The natural backdrop added a refreshing touch to their formal look, balancing the structured feel of their suits with a touch of nature’s softness.

Switching Things Up with McLaren Gear

Now, these two are all about their style — and what better way to show off their personalities than by switching up the wardrobe? After the formal suit shots, they changed into their McLaren button-up shirts, adding a fun, laid-back car enthusiast vibe to the shoot. We took a few casual shots in this getup, which perfectly captured the essence of their friendship: playful, real, and totally themselves. They’ve got that easygoing energy that shines through even in more relaxed, candid moments.

Cap & Gown Moment: Senior Year 2025

To finish things off, we headed back to the Pavilion where the guys changed into their cap and gown. It was the perfect way to mark the end of an era as they get ready to graduate and move on to their next adventures. The Pavilion’s elegant architecture provided the perfect backdrop for these final shots, giving a sense of grandeur to the moment. There’s something so special about capturing this transition — the excitement, the accomplishment, and the anticipation of what comes next.

Seeing them in their cap and gown felt like a full-circle moment — I’ve known these guys since they were just middle schoolers, and now here they are, ready to take on the world as high school seniors, about to graduate in 2025. It's always such a privilege to capture these moments that mean so much, not just to them but to their families as well.

Why I Love Senior Sessions Like This

There’s something uniquely special about photographing best friends during their senior year. It’s not just about the individual milestone, but about capturing the bond and history that these two share. From middle school days to high school graduation, their friendship has grown and evolved — and now we’ve captured it in a series of editorial-style portraits that feel timeless, stylish, and most importantly, authentic to them.

If you’re looking for a fun and elevated way to celebrate your senior year — either solo or with your best friend — let’s create something unforgettable! Whether you’re into a more formal vibe or prefer to keep things casual, I’ve got you covered. Balboa Park has so many perfect spots for capturing both traditional and creative senior portraits, and I can’t wait to help tell your story in a way that’s true to who you are.

Planning Your Senior Photoshoot?

Ready to book your own senior photoshoot? Whether you’re looking for a more traditional setting or something with an editorial flair, let’s make it happen. With stunning backdrops like Balboa Park’s Spreckels Organ Pavilion, you’ll have photos that you’ll treasure for years to come.

Reach out today to reserve your spot for the Class of 2025! Senior year goes by so fast, and you deserve a photoshoot that reflects all the hard work and memories that got you here.

Vibrant Couple’s Portraits in Carlsbad: F + L's Day of Sun, Love, and Laughter

Exploring downtown Carlsbad, Snacking at Harumama, and Enjoying a Romantic Sunset at Terramar Point

There are days as a photographer where everything just clicks, and this shoot with F+L in Carlsbad was one of those days! From the moment we started, it was clear that this was going to be one of those magical sessions where fun, spontaneity, and love all came together.

Our adventure kicked off with a walk through Carlsbad’s lively streets. We stumbled upon the most incredible graffiti wall, bursting with color, and I immediately knew it was going to make the perfect backdrop. I mean, come on — what could be better than vibrant artwork and two people with amazing chemistry?! Naturally, I suggested that F+L throw on their sunglasses for a few shots, and OH MY GOSH, they seriously looked like sunglass models straight out of a magazine.

We shot in the midday sun, which, let me tell you, can be tricky, but when it works, it really works. The bright sunlight made everything pop — from the colors of the wall to F+L’s energy. The shots came out so crisp, colorful, and vibrant, it was like the whole scene was alive. Honestly, some of my favorite moments as a couples photographer in Southern California are when everything comes together like that!

A Stop at Harumama for Some Sweet Bunny Fun

After soaking in the art and the sunshine, we made our way over to Harumama, this adorable little spot famous for their super cute, Nutella-filled bunny buns (yes, you read that right!). F+L couldn’t resist ordering a few, and I couldn’t resist capturing some shots of them holding the buns — seriously, those bunnies are just too cute to pass up.

While they snacked, I grabbed a few candid shots of them just enjoying the moment. I even managed to sneak the Harumama sign into the background for a little extra flair. There’s something so special about capturing those in-between moments — the ones where the couple is just being themselves, laughing, eating, and soaking up the day. Those natural, candid moments are what I live for as a photographer.

Sunset Magic at Terramar Point

After some fun with the bunnies, we headed over to Terramar Point, one of my favorite coastal spots in Carlsbad for catching that perfect golden hour glow. Now, let’s talk about the surprise we got when we arrived — it was like the seaweed had taken over! It was this weird summer thing, but honestly, we made it work because, as a photographer, you learn to roll with the punches, right?

Despite the seaweed situation, we hit the jackpot with the sunset. The sky turned into this dreamy, warm palette, and the light just wrapped around F+L like magic. I captured them holding each other, framed by the most beautiful sunset, and it honestly felt like a scene from a movie. The intimacy and affection between them, combined with that golden hour glow, was everything I could’ve hoped for — and more.

Why I Love Sessions Like These

This session with F+L was the perfect example of why I love being a couples photographer in Southern California. From the bright, fun urban shots to the soft, romantic beach moments, the day was a beautiful blend of playful and heartfelt. Every couple brings their own energy to a shoot, and with F+L, it was all about their genuine connection, their laughter, and the little moments that made the day unforgettable.

If you’re looking for couples portraits that reflect your unique personality — whether it’s urban chic or beachy romance — I’ve got you covered! And if you’re thinking about scheduling a session during that stunning golden hour, trust me, you won’t regret it. Let’s capture those intimate, joyful moments that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

Planning Your Own Portrait Session?

If you're planning to visit Carlsbad, San Diego, or any part of Southern California, and are looking to create stunning portraits with a mix of vibrant city vibes and soft sunset scenes, let's make it happen! Whether it's a couples session, wedding photography, or one of my upcoming fall mini sessions, I’ll help you capture the magic in every moment.

Check out my contact page to book your session and let’s start planning your perfect day!