A Summer to Remember: Class of 2026 Insider Lake Day at Holliday Lake State Park
xo, Heather
There’s just something about sunshine, bright floats, and the buzz of a new school year around the corner that makes summer feel unforgettable. Earlier this July, I had the joy of kicking off the 2026 Insider senior portraits with a playful and colorful lake day session at Holliday Lake State Park and it couldn’t have been a more perfect way to start the senior year celebration.
What Are Insider Senior Portraits?
The Insider program is my VIP experience for senior clients – a group of seniors who want a little extra from their senior year portraits. These teens get exclusive access to styled shoots throughout the year, fun bonding opportunities, and a community that feels like instant friendship. It’s about way more than pretty photos (although we definitely get those too!).
This summer session was our first time together, and I could feel both the excitement and the nerves. But it didn’t take long for laughter, bright floaties, and shared bug spray sunscreen to break the ice!
Colorful Vibes & Summertime Energy
For this shoot, I told my Insiders to come dressed like they were heading to the lake with their best friends – because they were. With bright bathing suits, cutoffs, oversized tees, and lake hair don’t care, the energy was effortlessly fun. Pink flamingo and unicorn floats, vibrant aqua tones, and bold accessories helped bring the whole summer vibe to life.
I wanted the images to feel like a snapshot of real joy – not just pretty poses, but real smiles, inside jokes, and the pure giddiness that only happens when you’re splashing around in a lake in July with a group of new friends.
Why These Sessions Matter
The Insider program is about so much more than styled shoots. It’s about creating memories and confidence that seniors carry into their final year of high school. Many of these girls started off quiet and unsure – but by the end of our first session, they were laughing, cheering each other on, and already asking about the next session!
That’s why I do this. Yes, the photos are stunning. But it’s the bonding, the togetherness, and the growth that make these moments unforgettable.
Ready for Your Own Senior Experience?
Whether you’re interested in being part of the Insider team next year or just ready to plan a senior session that feels true, I’d love to help bring your visions to life. Summer and fall sessions are booking fast – especially September and October, which are the most popular months for glowy, golden images.
📍 Let’s create something magical together. Click here to book a consult and start planning your one-of-a-kind senior session today!
📸 Insider Lake Day Highlight Gallery
Take a peek at more moments from our colorful, joy-filled kickoff session of 2026 Insider senior portraits.
If you have a rising senior who wants something more than just a pretty picture – or, if you’re looking for confidence, creativity, and connection for your senior – let’s talk. Bonus! I also have a helpful guide of tips to ensure your senior is ready for the next steps to download for free here.
I’m currently booking fall sessions, and September and October fill up fast.
From the beginning, my passion has been to craft an experience that celebrates both stunning imagery and the real, authentic people behind it.
We all see ourselves through a filter of self-doubt, but my camera captures the truth: the spark of beauty, the contagious joy, and the unwavering confidence that radiates from you.
I’m obsessed with beautiful light, color harmony and the little details.
Behind the lens
Discover the perfect colors to ensure you shine in your next portrait session. Get sample color palettes and tips on how to dress in this free guide from Heather!
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