Photographed by the serene shallow creek near Manhattan, Kansas, these senior portrait river dance images encapsulate a graceful fusion of movement and nature. The client's aspiration for radiant lighting perfectly complements her dance passion, forming the heart of these images. The session entailed dedicated repetitions spanning a duration of approximately 2 hours. Despite the predominantly overcast conditions, our patience was rewarded as the evening sun gracefully descended beneath the cloud cover. Subtle adjustments were made to enhance color through minor warming manipulations, further enriching the visual allure of the majority of the images.

Pillsbury Crossing Wildlife Area is a real location in Kansas, known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. It is situated in Riley County, Kansas, near Manhattan. Pillsbury Crossing is primarily known for a low-water bridge that crosses Deep Creek. The area is popular for hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking, and it offers a serene natural setting for outdoor enthusiasts.

Pillsbury Crossing is also known for its historic stone arch bridge, which adds to its charm. The bridge and the surrounding area provide a picturesque backdrop for nature lovers and photographers. It's a place where people can enjoy the outdoors and appreciate the beauty of the Kansas landscape. Please note that conditions and access to Pillsbury Crossing may vary depending on the time of year and any ongoing maintenance or improvements to the area.

One of the more difficult aspects of a photograph is to create a sense of motion.  I used a variety of techniques to add an element of time.  

The final image was converted from a photograph to a watercolor image using Adobe Photoshop.​

A good location is crucial for outdoor portrait photography for several reasons:

1. Aesthetic Appeal: The right location can provide a visually pleasing backdrop that enhances the overall composition of the portrait. It can set the mood and tone for the image and complement the subject's clothing, style, and personality.
2. Natural Light: Outdoor locations offer abundant natural light, which is often more flattering and versatile than artificial lighting. The quality of natural light can vary depending on the time of day and weather conditions, so choosing the right location and time is essential for achieving the desired lighting effects.
3. Variety: A well-chosen location can provide a variety of settings within a relatively small area. This versatility allows for multiple looks and styles in a single photoshoot, which can be particularly beneficial for clients looking for a diverse portfolio of images.
4. Storytelling: Locations can help tell a story or convey a message in the portrait. Whether it's a beach setting for a romantic engagement shoot or an urban backdrop for a fashion portrait, the location can add depth and context to the image.
5. Comfort and Creativity: The comfort of the subject is essential for capturing natural and relaxed expressions. A comfortable and aesthetically pleasing location can help the subject feel at ease, promoting more authentic and creative poses and expressions.
6. Seasonal and Thematic Considerations: The choice of location can align with the season or theme of the photoshoot. For example, a fall-themed shoot may benefit from a location with colorful foliage, while a winter shoot could take advantage of snowy landscapes.
7. Client Preferences: Understanding the preferences and personality of the client is key. Some clients may have a specific location in mind that holds sentimental value, while others may rely on the photographer's expertise in choosing an appropriate location.
8. Accessibility: The chosen location should be easily accessible and safe for the photographer, subject, and any necessary equipment. Accessibility can affect the logistics of the photoshoot.
9. Permit and Legal Considerations: In some cases, specific outdoor locations may require permits or have restrictions on photography. It's essential to be aware of any legal considerations and obtain permits when necessary.
10. Distraction Control: A good location should minimize distractions that could detract from the subject. This includes avoiding cluttered or busy backgrounds that might divert attention away from the subject.

In summary, the importance of a good location for outdoor portrait photography lies in its ability to enhance the aesthetics, lighting, storytelling, and overall quality of the images. A well-chosen location can contribute significantly to the success of a portrait session by providing a visually pleasing and contextually relevant backdrop for the subject.