A Smoky, Yet Stunning Senior Portrait Session in Chester, CA
October 15, 2024
A Smoky, Yet Stunning Senior Portrait Session in Chester, CA
The Unexpected Journey to Lake Almanor
As summer was winding down, my husband and I decided to take a last-minute trip to savor the remaining days. We packed up our trailer and set off to Lake Almanor, hoping for some relaxation before the hustle and bustle of my crazy fall season. But, being the dedicated senior portrait photographer that I am, I saw this getaway as the perfect opportunity to blend work with pleasure. I scheduled a couple of portrait sessions in Chester, knowing the area had some breathtaking spots I’d been itching to shoot at.
The Unforeseen Park Fire
Our journey took a dramatic turn as we drove up Highway 32. I noticed smoke billowing in the distance—a fire had started. Initially, it didn’t seem too severe, and I hoped it would be quickly contained. However, nature had other plans. The Park Fire rapidly escalated, and as of writing this, it has tragically consumed nearly 400,000 acres with just 18% containment. The reality of the situation was sinking in as we approached Chester, where the once clear skies were now shrouded in a smoky haze.
Making the Best of a Smoky Situation
The next morning, Chester was blanketed in a thick layer of smoke, creating an eerie yet captivating atmosphere. We were faced with a choice: cancel the session or embrace the unique conditions and proceed. After some deliberation, we decided to go for it. This decision led to one of the most memorable and visually striking sessions I’ve ever conducted.
Capturing Lassen High School’s Graduate
The senior portrait session was for a graduate from Lassen High School. Despite the smoke-filled skies, the student was excited and ready to capture this milestone moment. The smoke gave an orange glow to the environment, casting a unique light that is rarely seen in summer portraits. It was both challenging and exhilarating to work with these conditions, pushing my creative boundaries.
Embracing the Unexpected
The session took place at a few select spots I had scouted beforehand. Each location offered a different backdrop, from the serene, smoky shores of Lake Almanor to the rustic charm of Chester’s historic spots. The orange hue from the smoke provided a surreal and almost magical quality to the photos, transforming what could have been a mundane session into something extraordinary.
We utilized the smoky conditions to our advantage, creating images that were both hauntingly beautiful and profoundly unique. The graduate’s calm demeanor and excitement for the shoot made the session flow smoothly, allowing us to capture a series of stunning portraits that she and her family will cherish forever.
Reflecting on the Experience
This session was a reminder of the unpredictability of both nature and photography. As a senior portrait photographer, adapting to unexpected conditions is part of the job, and sometimes, these challenges can lead to the most remarkable results. The Park Fire, while devastating, created an environment that allowed for a once-in-a-lifetime shoot.
A Note of Gratitude
I am incredibly grateful to the Lassen High School graduate and her family for their flexibility and positive attitude. Their willingness to go ahead with the session despite the less-than-ideal conditions made all the difference. This experience has not only enriched my portfolio but also reinforced my love for venturing outside my usual areas to explore and capture new content.
Conclusion
Our trip to Lake Almanor was initially planned as a simple getaway, but it turned into an unforgettable experience marked by the stark beauty of a smoky landscape. The senior portrait session in Chester was a testament to the power of resilience and creativity in the face of adversity. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that sometimes the most stunning images come from the most unexpected circumstances.
As the Park Fire continues to burn, my thoughts are with those affected, and I remain hopeful for swift containment and recovery. Meanwhile, the portraits from this session stand as a poignant reminder of the beauty that can be found even in the midst of chaos.
Megan is a photographer based in the Greater Sacramento Area, serving Northern California for all your photography needs. She specializes in newborn, children and family photography. Contact Megan today!
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I photograph every portrait session personally.
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