One of my favorite parts of being a Denver photographer is getting to tell a story that actually reflects who a high school senior is—not just what grade they’re in. For this shoot, I worked with a Colorado Academy senior from Lakewood, CO, and we headed straight into the heart of the Colorado mountains to capture what he loves most: the outdoors, fly fishing, music, and that laid-back mountain lifestyle that makes Colorado so special.
We chose Lake Dillon near Frisco, Colorado as the backdrop for his senior photos, and it couldn’t have been a better fit. The fall season was in full swing—golden aspens, crisp mountain air, and glassy water reflecting the peaks of the Tenmile Range. This is exactly why so many families search for Denver senior photos that go beyond a typical park or urban setting. The mountains add depth, scale, and a sense of adventure that’s hard to replicate anywhere else.
This senior is an avid fly fisherman and guitarist, so we built the session around those passions. We captured relaxed portraits along the shoreline, him playing guitar with Lake Dillon and the mountains behind him, and candid moments that felt authentic—not forced. That’s always my goal as a Denver photographer: senior photos that feel like you, not a version of you stuck in a pose.
One of the highlights of the shoot? We spotted a moose standing in the water nearby—a very Colorado moment and a memory neither of us will forget. It’s moments like that which make mountain senior sessions so unique and meaningful.
To finish the session strong, he suited up in his fly fishing waders and stepped right into the lake. We photographed him casting his line into the water with the mountains rising behind him—hands down some of my favorite images from the day. Those final shots perfectly captured his personality, confidence, and love for the outdoors, while showcasing why the Colorado mountains are such an incredible setting for senior portraits.
For families looking for a Lakewood photographer or Denver photographers who specialize in senior photos with a sense of place and personality, this is exactly what I love to create. Whether it’s Lake Dillon, the foothills, or another iconic Colorado location, mountain senior photos tell a story that lasts long after graduation.
If you’re planning Denver senior photos and want something adventurous, meaningful, and uniquely Colorado, I’d love to help bring that vision to life.
BOOK YOUR SESSION NOW
MEET YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER
DENVER PHOTOGRAPHER TIM GILLIES
As a Denver photographer, I specialize in personal branding, senior portraits, family sessions, and event photography throughout Denver and Boulder. My goal is to create images that feel authentic, approachable, and professional—whether you’re a real estate agent building your brand, a senior celebrating a milestone, or a family capturing memories together. If you’re looking for one of the best Denver photographers to help you tell your story through timeless, creative imagery, I’d love to connect and bring your vision to life.
MORE FROM THE BLOG:
