Charleston Magic: Vivy’s Field & Water Senior Session by Bethany Hillman

When Vivy envisioned her senior session, she dreamed of golden fields and a serene water location — so Bethany Hillman Photography made it happen. Set in Charleston, Illinois, this session perfectly blended the warmth of summer light with a rare opportunity: the drought opened up areas of the creek that are usually unreachable, creating an unexpected and magical backdrop for Vivy’s portraits.

Vivy poses in a golden field at sunset during her Charleston, Illinois senior session by Bethany Hillman Photography.
Senior girl Vivy stands among tall grass in warm evening light for her Illinois senior portraits.
Senior girl Vivy sits gracefully on rocks near the river in a white dress at sunset, photographed by Bethany Hillman.

📸 3 Tips for Senior Photos

  1. Plan Around the Light
    Golden hour — that soft, glowing light right before sunset — adds instant magic to any senior session. It brings warmth, depth, and that dreamy glow every photographer loves.

  2. Incorporate Meaningful Locations
    Choose spots that tell your story — whether it’s a favorite field, downtown hangout, or a hidden creek. Locations that mean something to your senior create authentic, emotional images.

  3. Bring Variety in Outfits and Textures
    Mix up your wardrobe! Flowy dresses, denim, and layers photograph beautifully and help create a range of looks that feel editorial yet personal.

A blend of field and water locations creates a dreamy backdrop for Vivy’s Central Illinois senior portraits.
Vivy smiles in soft golden hour light surrounded by tall grass during her Charleston senior session.
Natural light and lush greenery frame Vivy’s outdoor senior portraits captured by Bethany Hillman Photography.
Vivy splashes in the shallow water at sunset for a fun, unique Charleston senior session by Bethany Hillman.

💫 Where to Find Bethany

See more of Bethany’s stunning senior work and behind-the-scenes magic on social!
📸 Instagram: @bethanyhellmanphotography
🎥 TikTok: @bethanyhellmanphoto

🌟 Be Featured Next!

Be sure to follow @seniorstyleguide for daily inspiration, contest announcements, and community features! We’re always on the lookout for creative senior sessions that push boundaries and inspire our community — submit your work and you might be next!

👉 Click here to submit your session!


🛍️ Shop Senior Style Guide

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Check out the tools, presets, and educational resources our community loves — from posing guides to Lightroom presets that make your images pop!

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xoxo,

Vickie