San Luis Obispo High Senior Session at Montana de Oro


When it comes to Senior Sessions here in San Luis Obispo County, the biggest challenge my seniors seem to have is picking a location. With so many beautiful options, it can be hard to choose just one. One of the best ways to decide is to start with the type of vibe you want your session to have. Do you want a beachy feel with golden sunsets and ocean waves? An urban setting with fun textures and architecture downtown? Open fields filled with wildflowers? A rugged mountainside for an adventurous look? Choosing a location that speaks to your personality will make your session feel even more special and authentic.


Another great way to narrow down your options is to think about your favorite places. Do you have a go-to beach or park? Do you love to hike and have a favorite trail? Your senior session should reflect who you are and what you love. I always encourage my seniors to pick a location that makes them feel comfortable, happy, and excited.


When it came to choosing a location for Vanessa’s Senior Session, this soon-to-be SLO High grad knew exactly where she wanted to go—Montana de Oro. And I couldn’t have been more thrilled! This stunning coastal gem is one of my favorite spots for photos. With its dramatic cliffs and sweeping ocean views, it’s an absolute dream for capturing light-filled, natural portraits.


The weather that day was perfect—warm with the sun shining brightly. Vanessa was an absolute natural in front of the camera. Her confidence, kindness, and radiant beauty made my job so easy. Her energy and enthusiasm made the session so much fun, and it truly shows in her photos.


If you're planning your senior session, here are a few tips for picking the perfect location:

  1. Think About the Vibe – Choose a setting that matches your personality and style.
  2. Consider the Time of Day – Different locations shine best at different times. Beaches are breathtaking at sunset, while urban settings glow with morning light.
  3. Dress for the Location – Pick outfits that complement the scenery. Flowy dresses look amazing at the beach, while stylish streetwear pops in an urban setting.
  4. Pick a Spot with Meaning – Locations tied to special memories or hobbies make your session even more personal.
  5. Have Fun With It – Your session should feel like an experience, not just a photoshoot. Relax, enjoy, and let your personality shine!


Vanessa’s session at Montana de Oro was a perfect example of how choosing the right location can make all the difference. It reflected her love for the coast and gave us the most beautiful backdrop for her senior portraits. No matter where you choose for your session, the key is to make it a place that feels like YOU!

senior photographer felisha connolly captures slo high senior session at central coast beach
slo high senior portraits wearing pink shirt and jeans for casual look at montana de oro
pink shirt and jeans for casual senior session for san luis obispo high school senior at montana de oro senior session by felisha connolly
standing on montana de oro beach in pink shirt and jeans for slo high senior session by felisha connolly photography
casual look in pink shirt and jeans for central coast senior session by portrait photographer felisha connolly for slo high senior
cute slo high senior girl wearing a pink shirt for senior photos done at montana de oro with felisha connolly photography
playful high school senior session at central coast beach for slo high senior in pink shirt and jeans photographer felisha connolly
slo high senior in pink shirt and black dress on montana de oro beach for fun and casual high senior session
senior session in black dress with cliffs in the background from montana de oro for slo high senior photos by felisha connolly
san luis obispo senior portraits for slo high senior at beach in black dress by felisha connolly photography
san luis obispo high school senior portraits in black dress standing on beach with cliff in the background
cute little black dress on the beach for slo high senior portraits in montana de oro for local san luis obispo high school senior
fun and playful high school senior portraits for san luis obispo slo high senior session by felisha connolly photography at beach location
fun and beautiful beach location for high school senior photos wearing little black dress during senior session on the beach with felisha
what to wear for senior session, black dress on the beach for slo high senior session by felisha connolly photography
how to pick location for senior portraits on local beach for local slo high senior photos in san luis obispo by central coast photographer