Hello there, and congratulations on reaching your senior year! As a Momma of teenagers, I’m right here with you! I’m feeling all the feelings that come with having a high school senior. My oldest daughter just graduated high school last year, and I have twins who will be high school seniors this coming year. I’m excited for this moment of their lives and for all the wonderful adventures to come.
Being a photographer with teenagers gives me a unique perspective into just how important your senior year is. I want to give you that AWESOME senior photography experience you’ve been waiting for, and the those Instagram worthy images you can’t wait to share with all your friends and family!
I will work with you to capture genuine and timeless, high-end photography that documents and celebrates this special time in your life! In the process I want to share with you some of my favorite go to spots in and around the Des Moines area where we can capture those amazing images you want!
Jester Park
Located in Granger, on the north west side of the Des Moines area, I love Jester park for several reasons… including the variety of images we can shoot in one location. No matter the season it’s always stunning with open fields of tall grasses and wild flowers and a gorgeous pond with walkways and trees. Golden hour makes it even more magical!
Court Avenue in downtown Des Moines
Wanting that cool downtown vibe? Court Avenue has all the feels including bridges, colorful murals, rooftops and brick alley ways. Put on your favorite pair of kicks, and let’s do this thing!
The Art Center of Des Moines
With its diverse architecture and grounds, the Art Center provides a unique and visually appealing setting for senior photos. The center offers a mix of city views, natural landscapes (like fields of flowers and a rose garden), and the unique architecture of the buildings themselves, creating diverse photo opportunities.
Krause Gateway Center
Located on the western edge of downtown Des Moines on Grand Ave., the Krause Gateway Center is home to the Kum & Go business. Designed by world-renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano the building is a work of art. The 100-foot tall, 159,000-square-foot building is wrapped in glass panels that the sun shines right through. When the 29-foot lobby windows were installed, they were the tallest in North America and its lobby and courtyard make a stunning backdrop for senior photos.
Easter Lake and Owen’s Covered Bridge
This covered bridge is over a pedestrian walking path at Easter Lake Park on the south side of Des Moines. It was originally built in 1878, abandoned 1939 and relocated to the park in 1968. It is one of only the 12 remaining covered bridges in Iowa, this is the only one in Polk County.
High Trestle Trail Bridge
If you are up for a little bit of a hike through the woods (about a mile to be exact), the High Trestle Trail Bridge over the Des Moines River Valley near Madrid, Iowa is amazing. This half-mile long, 13-story high bicycle-pedestrian bridge views up and down the Des Moines River Valley, and makes an epic location for senior photos.
Valley Junction
Valley Junction in West Des Moines, Iowa is a vibrant charming blend of old and new. It has a rich history as an important rail junction and trading hub, now a popular destination with unique shops, restaurants, and a social scene.
