Senior Portrait Session

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR SESSION

Hello! I am so happy you are here! Some of you have inquired about my senior portrait sessions, so I thought I would share a brief overview of my senior sessions.

My senior sessions are laid back and fun. You are welcome to bring any props you want that reflect your graduation milestone (class rings, graduation hat, awards). You can also bring props that reflect your passions (sports, music, art). Or you can choose to just bring yourself. I am more than happy to take photographs in your home, on your campus or your favorite spot in San Antonio. You can also choose one of my locations between urban, urban/green area, or nature/park setting.

The session lasts anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, and I would suggest not planning anything right after your shoot. If you have several outfit changes or many must-have locations, our session will typically last longer than an hour.

I will guide you throughout your whole session, so you don’t have to worry about how you should act in front of the camera.

If possible, I like to schedule my sessions within 20 minutes of a sunrise or 2 hours before sunset. I use both natural light and strobes to create incredible backdrops that aren’t washed out.

After our session, you will receive an online gallery with beautiful photos that artfully captures your story!

Portrait Sessions

My portrait photo sessions are for everyone in San Antonio, Texas and nearby communities— from professionals, graduating seniors, and children and family, to entrepreneurs, couples, friend sessions, and more. My session last 1 to 2 hours. I provide an organized yet relaxed and fun photo shoot where I capture candid, natural, professional photos of you. My average photo session results in 30 high quality images that are ready to download.

Wear your favorite outfit to your session, and bring along some other choices for a wardrobe change for later in the session. An extra outfit and/or accessories allows for more variety in your online gallery.

Once the session is over, I will send you a password protected online gallery of images for you to choose from. Your selected images will be professionally retouched to look your best.

I would not be doing my job as a photographer if I didn’t encourage you to purchase prints. You can choose your favorite images to print on archival quality paper, canvas, or metal. Archival quality prints start at $15.

You will receive all 30 photos via your online gallery in a high resolution digital format, hand edited, and ready for downloading.

The Printed Photograph

Incorporating beautiful images into our homes creates a visual story in the most wondrous of ways—especially when it is the story of our loved ones. We want to live with art on our walls for inspiration and to breathe life and meaning into our homes. Nothing can bring that WOW factor into a room like the printed photograph. Also, numerous studies show that hanging art in our homes creates a ton of health benefits. Among many, photography stimulates the brain and lifts our mood. It freshens our homes with invigorating spirit. When you buy the gift of photography for yourself or others, you are buying not just an image, but spirit, meaning, wellness, and inspiration. It is the gift that keeps giving every single day.

On Location Portrait Session San Antonio, Texas

I love being an on location photographer! There are always so many interesting textures, beautiful shapes, different lighting scenarios etc. Not only does this help create variety in a photo gallery, but the settings and surroundings of on location shoots are inspirational to the photo session. The environment always touches both photographer and client, producing unique, one of a kind photographs that tell a story of that person and where they sit in occasion and history.

Family Fall Portrait Sessions

A Family Fall Portrait Session is a great way to celebrate your family with beautiful, artistic images in a fun, laid-back session tailored to your family. You will receive a photo gallery of images showcasing the love, connection, and uniqueness of your family that you can share on holiday cards and social media.

Kids are headed back to school, soccer games and dance lessons are in full force, and before we know it, our children will soon be trick-or-treating under an October moon. Fall season gets busy for everyone--not just photographers. Get ahead of your schedule and book a family photo session! Weekend dates do fill up quickly, so grab your spot, and relax knowing that this year your family will be celebrated in images that will be cherished for lifetimes!

Portraits of my Father

Over the summer my sister and I were able to spend a week with my parents who are in their late 70’s. I was toying around an idea I had for a photograph, and my dad readily agreed to help me out! I envisioned 3 simple ingredients (outside my model and lighting) to make this photograph. 1. A hat 2. A scarf 3. an old-timey looking coat or cape. I had brought a Magritte-style hat with me and was able to quickly check that off the list. Next, my mom escorted me to her scarf drawer as we rummaged through her vast selection. We picked out a scarf that had beautiful rose-colored patterns and a velvety texture I was sure would do the trick. All that was needed to complete the vision was a cape (which I knew my dad didn’t have 😂) or a coat. I looked at my dad’s selection of coats and jackets, and all of them were sporty and unromantic. The bright fashion labels and windbreaker materials may have kept my dad fashionable and warm in southern winters, but it would not do for this photograph. After we all hemmed and hawed a bit in an effort to overcome this obstacle, my dad remembered he had his old military coat in the attic! My sister and I went inside the hot attic space together. In childhood, the attic was always in disarray and not very pleasant to be in. But now, boxes politely stacked on one another, and each box had their own label proclaiming the treasures that were sure to be found inside. We easily spotted the coat box and pulled out the final piece of the vision! The coat was wool, a beautiful dark blue, and had shiny silver buttons— each adorned with an American Eagle. It weighed about fifty pounds and was a struggle to tote around, but I couldn’t have asked for anything better.

This is indeed a personal blog—being about my dad and all— but it also shows how simple it can be to bring a photographic vision to life. A couple of the right ingredients, a willing model, and some good lighting can make all the difference.

I also included a photo of my dad to show how he looks in his “every day” role. In my opinion, the first two images capture a piece of my dad’s spirit that hardly anyone ever sees at first glance (in contrast to the photo below). I finally understood Irvin Penn when he said he didn’t want to photograph anyone under 60!

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Fine Art School Portraits San Antonio

To say I had a blast photographing these amazing homeschool students would be an understatement! I loved capturing their beautiful faces and unique and wonderful personalities! I believe in the popular saying that the eyes are a window to the soul. I love how thoughts, feelings, and depth can be captured through the eyes in photography. I know I did my job well when I hear a parent say I was able to capture the true personality of their kiddo! 📸

I must give a shout out to my niece, Ashely Gordon, who was instrumental in getting these beautiful families to me! Thank you for all of your work and support!! 🙏

I am always more than happy to take on schools, homeschool groups, preschools, etc. If you or someone you know are interested in this type of school photography, you can check out the link below.

If you have been photographed by me, or you have seen and appreciated my work, I would be so thankful beyond words if you would send in a review to support my small business!🙏. Simply click the button below.

Lastly, I want to thank all those who participated in this event! I really enjoyed meeting everyone. You all were so helpful and kind, and you all have really spectacular kids! I am so happy to share these images of the kiddos whose parents signed my release. Enjoy!

Senior Portrait Session Peek At The Pearl San Antonio Texas

Celebrating this stellar young man’s graduation through photography was my great honor and pleasure last weekend!

It is my great LOVE shooting seniors! I am so impressed and moved by the youth of today. I see a collection of truly unique, creative, talented, ethical and intelligent people, and it is my honor to capture and celebrate all who they are through photography.

This senior was no exception.

Many thanks to his “crew” who was at the shoot assisting with wardrobe, smiles, and making the evening a true delight for all.

Happy Graduation!

#schexnayderphotography #seniorpictures#sanantoniophotographer#sanantoniophotography#sanantonioseniorphotographer#sanantonioseniorphotographer

Senior Portraits/San Antonio, Texas

Through photography, we are celebrating the achievements of the graduate at the finish line, but we are also honoring all the experiences which collectively contributed to the important rite of passage of graduation day. 

The photographs from my senior portrait sessions will be cherished for lifetimes.  They will be looked upon forever by the graduate with nostalgia and love.  They will spark stories told to curious children who in turn will share those stories with their children. 

I am a photographer who is dedicated to spending time with your graduate to artfully document not just the cap and gown shot, but a variety of photographs that are meaningful to your graduate. I understand the importance of graduation and what this rite of passage means, and it is reflected in my work.  I am a photographer who works in tandem, so each session is tailor-made to your graduate.  If this is what you are looking for in a photographer, I would love to be part of your graduate’s celebration!

#schexnayderphotography #sanantoniophotographer #sanantoniophotography #sanantonioseniorportraits #sanantoniosenior #seniorportraits #seniorpics #seniorsession #sanantonioseniorpics #sanantonioseniorphotographer #sanantonioseniorphotography

FINE ART SCHOOL PORTRAITS

Fine Art School Portraits

We have grown used to taking pictures with our smartphones of our children—documenting every step of their journey.  I love the immediacy our camera phones offer us, and the oodles of images we collect.  However; regardless of the changing times, I think there will always be a chair in the room for the classic children’s portrait—that special portrait taken with a great camera and thought to light and mood.  These are the artful photographs we will enlarge and hang in our homes.  These are the photographs that families will pass down from generation to generation.

Fine Art School Portraits

In my Fine Art School Portrait Sessions, I eliminate all distractions by using a classic black background, so the focus is all on the child.  Beloved expressions and personalities get captured and spill out of the frame and into our hearts.  I will not ask a child to say cheese.  I love natural expressions and natural smiles.  I am known to behave really silly to capture an authentic smile or two, but mainly I like allowing the children to be how they feel and who they are at that moment in time.

Fine Art School Portraits

The play between light and shadow can create a 3D effect and bring a photograph to life. I use a studio light with a large modifier that allows me to sculpt light and shadow on their adorable faces.  My lighting technique creates an artful mood to each image. 

The images from my Fine Art School Portrait Sessions are perfect to print (either on our archival quality papers or our archival gallery-wrapped canvases) and hang in a child’s bedroom or the family room.  They also make meaningful gifts to grandparents and loved ones.

My Fine Art School Portrait Sessions are not just offered to schools only.  I welcome anyone who is interested in this style of portraiture to contact me to learn more about Fine Art School Portraits.

Couples Portrait Sessions

The newly engaged aren’t the only ones who should benefit from a couples session. Grab your loved one and let's have fun with a couples session! A couples session can be with your significant other, best friend, your pet, or any two beings that want to capture their love and connection forever. Artfully document your love with a couples portrait session by Schexnayder Photography!

#schexnayderphotography #sanantoniophotographer #sanantoniophotography #sanantoniophotographers #valentineportraits

High School Senior Portraits

First, I am so happy you are here! There are many photographers to choose from, and I am happy you are considering Schexnayder Photography to capture images of a most momentous occasion! I would love to share with you how Schexnayder Photography rolls out its senior photo session.

I am the owner and creative behind Schexnayder Photography, and it is my great LOVE shooting seniors! I am so impressed, moved, and affected by the youth of today. I see a collection of truly unique, creative, talented, ethical and brilliant people— that it is my honor to capture and celebrate all who they are in images that reflect their greatness and authenticity.  

My Senior Portrait sessions are relaxed and fun, and I am thrilled to give each senior artful images that are a reflection of their authentic self. Before a photo session, we chat or text about location options. A lot of my seniors love the urban and nature mix that The Pearl offers. Some high school students want on campus photos, and others love having photos taken at a favorite park, their home, or at The Botanical Gardens. San Antonio does not lack in beautiful spaces, and I am open to them all.

Before the session, I also ask my seniors to fill out a brief questionnaire form. I love to learn a little bit about my senior before our session, and it is also a great way to prepare us both for the shoot. In addition, I prepare seniors with some helpful pre-session tips. Though I strongly advise seniors to wear whatever they feel rockin’ in, I do offer a what to wear guide (for ex. staying away from T-shirts and baseball caps with logos) and am available for any questions/consultations.

During the session, I will take a variety of photographs in a fun and relaxed manner. I know natural posing techniques and how to make my seniors look good and most importantly, authentically themselves. In addition to using the sun, I use portable studio lighting —which is how I get those gorgeous skin tones and depth of color in my work.

If friends or family want to accompany the senior during the session, I welcome it; but extras must be laid back, happy to be there, and helpful if need be. My only rule is that no one is allowed to photograph the subject during the session.

And since I am laid back myself, I am open (at no additional charges) to outfit changes, meaningful props seniors may want to bring to our sessions, and I am open to any ideas seniors want to try during our photo session.

After the session, I cull the images and hand edit each photograph. When the gallery is complete, I email an online gallery (usually within 2 weeks) where my client has the option of purchasing archival quality prints, canvases, and digital images from the very best lab in the printing industry.

Seniors have so much to offer the world, and my images speak of promise, hope, beauty, strength, empathy, intelligence, and much more. Together we will create stunning and artful images in honor of our youth and this important rite of passage!

Senior Portrait Session in the Park with Prop

Senior Portraits/University Graduates

Through photography, we are celebrating the achievements of the graduate at the finish line, but we are also honoring all the experiences which collectively contribute to the important rite of passage of graduation day.  The campus is a sacred ground overflowing with critical and special moments for the graduate.  It is a place where transformations and new adult identities find sun.  

My sessions for college graduates usually lasts longer than other sessions, but it is so important for me to artfully document all the different locations on their campus that have meaning for the graduate.  Symbolically, we bless and say farewell with each click of the shutter— as we hop from the library steps to the Quad, from the Quad to the Union, from there to a favorite bench in front of the Music building…

The photographs from my college graduate portrait sessions will be cherished for lifetimes.  They will be looked upon forever by the graduate with nostalgia and love.  They will spark stories told to curious children who in turn will share those stories with their children.  They may inspire a loved one toward higher education.  They may cause tears of joy for a memory.

I am a photographer who is dedicated to spending the time with your graduate to artfully document not just the cap and gown shot, but a variety of photographs that are meaningful to your graduate. I understand the importance of graduation and what this rite of passage means, and it is reflected in my work.  I am a photographer who works in tandem, so each session is tailor-made to your graduate.  If this is what you are looking for in a photographer, I would love to be part of your college graduate’s celebration!

FAMILY PORTRAIT FAQ's

WHAT TYPE OF FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER ARE YOU?

I am a custom photographer who is interested not only in capturing what you look like at a certain point in time, but capturing who you are. I aim to capture honest photos of your family and children. The goal is not to get a stiff and posed shot with everyone looking at the camera, but to capture the true essence of your family. I take a documentary approach to my family sessions and create images that will become works of art that you can hang in your home and pass down for generations.

WHERE WILL MY SESSION BE HELD?

We can shoot in your home. Many clients prefer their home because of the intimate and personal feel it provides. I also have suggested locations, but I am always open to new locations as well. You should choose a location that fits your style and personality. Some examples:

• URBAN (The Pearl)

• URBAN GREEN AREA (The McNay Grounds/The Botanical Gardens)—There is an extra fee of $30. for the McNay and cost of entry for The Botanical Gardens.

• NATURE/PARK (Hardberger Park)

• HOME

HOW LONG WILL MY SESSION BE?

My family portrait sessions usually last an hour. I do recommend that you allow for more time if you have little children. I never schedule my sessions back to back. If a child needs a break during our session, I like to have time built in for that.

WHAT WILL MY SESSION BE LIKE?

My sessions are fun and relaxed. I will guide you throughout the session, so you don’t have to worry about how to “act” for the camera. Once again, I am not interested in capturing posed and stiff images, but rather the true essence of your family. Your gallery will be a celebration of the love and connection of family.

WHAT DO I WEAR?

Wardrobe should be comfortable and reflect who you are. I do not recommend matching, but rather coordinating. I also suggest staying away from neon colors and clothes with big logos/words. In your welcome e-packet that I deliver after you book your session, I outline guidelines that are easy to follow.

DO YOU USE PROPS IN YOUR SESSION?

I do not provide props during my sessions, but if you have something in mind, please let me know.

WHAT SHOULD I DO TO PREPARE MY CHILD/REN FOR THE SESSION?

Remember that children are not usually fond of being told to pose or smile. It is best if we just give your children time to relax and try to capture their natural self. Don’t worry if your child is running about and active. I love capturing images where children are busy playing and exploring.

Make sure your little one has rested and has had adequate snacks and water. We can take breaks for snacks and play, however I will probably still shoot during the breaks. Bring dry, non messy snacks so their little faces stay clean during the session.

Prepare the child for the session by letting them know that a friend will be taking some photos of them. It is best not to surprise them.

I can’t wait to capture your unique family! Do not hesitate to ask me any questions you have. Thank you for your interest in SCHEXNAYDER PHOTOGRAPHY!

#schexnayderphotography #sanantoniophotographers #sanantoniophotography #portraitphotographersanantonio #portraitphotographer #familyphotographer #familypictures

Fine Art School Portraits

Maybe you are homeschooling your children this year, or perhaps your child’s school doesn’t offer school photos.  If the school does offer school photos, maybe you are just tired of the cheesy backgrounds and limited offerings.

That is where I come in!  I am a San Antonio portrait photographer (and ex teacher).  I understand that parents who pay for school photos actually want beautiful, artful images that they can proudly display in their home.

I can deliver what you and your children want—beautiful and classic images that will be treasured for lifetimes!

I use a classic black background and soft lighting to produce images you will love and want to hang in your home.

Fine Art School Portrait mini sessions are for individual portraits only.  It is not a family or group sibling mini session.

SPRING SESSION MARCH 4, 2022. RESERVATIONS ARE ACCEPTED NOW.

Contact me to schedule your Fine Art School Portrait mini session.

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HOW TO SHOP IN YOUR GALLERY

This blog is for all my clients who have already received their gallery and are needing a little guidance navigating the site.

After signing into your gallery with your email address, you will be on the home page of your gallery.

Below each photograph, there are 3 icons:

1. STAR—click on the star icon to favorite your top photographs (this is a great tool to help you narrow down your choices).

2. SHOPPING CART—click on the shopping cart if you want to buy that photograph.

3. DOWN ARROW—click on this icon to download the images that are part of your package. It will ask for a pin number. Type in your pin number, and the image will be downloaded directly to your computer.

THE SHOPPING CART

Let’s review your choices in the shopping cart.

1. Click on the shopping cart icon located at the bottom of the image (or click on the photo, and then click on the BUY button in the top right corner).

2. If you want to purchase a PACKAGE, click the PACKAGE bar. Select a package. Next, click on the + and select the photos you want to add in your package.

3.  If you want to buy A LA CARTE items, click on the bar that is marked                  

     ITEMS so that ITEMS is highlighted (not PACKAGES).

    Under the ITEMS tab is a horizontal list of your options:

    PRINTS, DIGITALS, and GALLERY WRAPPED CANVASES, 

4.  Pick the option you would like and the desired size. (If you select DIGITALS, it will not ask you for the size.  All digitals are full resolution images and they come with a print release.) There is a description for each option you select after you click on the size.

5.  Select the quantity and click on the ADD TO CART button below.

6. You can either view your cart or continue shopping.

7.  Click on the CHECKOUT button when you are finished placing your order, and follow the prompts..

Have fun shopping!  Please don’t hesitate to send me a text or call if you have any questions!  

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