Badlands Senior Session: Rita’s Stunning Photoshoot

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A Badlands senior session is one of the best ways to capture unique, stunning senior photos, and that’s exactly what we did with Rita! The North Unit of the Badlands, with its breathtaking rock formations and wide-open views, is my go-to location for senior photos. Whether it’s the giant cannonball formations or the sweeping valley below, it’s always the perfect backdrop for memorable, one-of-a-kind senior photos.

Rita’s Senior Photoshoot Begins at the Cannonball Area

This past June, I had the pleasure of doing Rita’s Badlands senior session, and it was everything. We started at the Cannonball area—I love this spot so much. It’s full of these giant, cannonball-shaped formations that look like something out of a sci-fi movie. Seriously, you can’t beat those lines in the clay. We couldn’t have asked for a better evening.

The Dream Team

Rita brought along her mom, Verniece, and her sister Naomi (they’re the best), and I had my own crew with me—my mom as my second shooter and Lane, my son, playing cameraman. This is what I call the dream team.

Outfits Galore

Now, let’s talk outfits. Rita came prepared with a bunch of different looks, and I can’t stress this enough—the more outfits, the more variety you get. And trust me, variety = more options in your final gallery. We shot three different outfits at the Cannonball area (because why not, right?), and each one was better than the last.

A Scenic Journey to the Lookout Area

After that, we headed to the Lookout area—you know, the spot with the house and the tall grasses that just scream “perfect photo op.” We got some great shots there, and then wrapped up at my absolute favorite spot in the park, with this incredible view of the whole valley. I can’t get enough of that spot.

Buffalo Sighting and a Touch of Adventure

But wait—here’s where it gets a little crazy. On our way out of the park, a lone buffalo decided to block the road. No joke, he was strolling right down the center line, like he owned the place. We had to wait for him to wander off before we could move. It was honestly a little funny (and I tried to get it on video, but it was getting too dark to do it justice).

Rita: A Photographer’s Dream

I’ve been photographing Rita for years now—she’s a good friend of my daughter’s, and we’ve done everything from friend sessions to pageant photos, family shots, and even dance competition pics. She’s seriously a photographer’s dream: fun, beautiful, and so natural in front of the camera. It honestly makes my job way too easy.

A Sneak Peek That Was Hard to Narrow Down

When I went through her sneak peek, I had the hardest time picking photos. Why? Because they all looked so darn good. I mean, how do you choose between all those perfect shots?

Final Thoughts on Rita’s Badlands Senior Session

All in all, this Badlands senior session was such a blast. Amazing location, perfect light, killer outfits, and a client who made it all look effortless. That’s what makes a session like this so special—when everything just clicks, and you walk away knowing you captured something truly beautiful.

So, if you’re looking to book a senior session (or really any session) that feels as amazing as it looks, hit me up! Whether it’s the Badlands or a place you’ve always wanted to shoot at, let’s make it happen. I’m all about creating sessions that feel as good as they look.

Get to Know Rita More!

Before I wrap things up, I thought it’d be fun for you to hear a bit more from Rita herself! She’s been such a joy to photograph over the years, and I’m so excited to share her answers to my Senior Sunday questionnaire. Keep reading to learn more about Rita and what made her senior session so memorable!