An Unscripted Portrait Session in Downtown Seattle
Jenette and I first met a few years ago while I was photographing for Moorea Seal, the local Seattle boutique where she works. It wasn’t until later that we realized we shared some of the same circles, including a connection to the hardcore punk scene. Finding that common ground made this Seattle portrait session feel less like a traditional photoshoot and more like catching up with someone I already knew.
For this Seattle waterfront portrait session, we started in the Belltown neighborhood and slowly made our way toward the Seattle waterfront, exploring the streets, piers, and areas surrounding the Seattle Great Wheel. This part of downtown Seattle is one of my favorite places for portrait photography because it offers such a variety of backgrounds—from urban streets and architecture to the open waterfront and views of Elliott Bay.
Rather than following a strict plan, we let the environment, conversation, and available light guide the direction of the shoot. My approach to portrait photography has always been centered around being present and working with what is naturally happening around me. I don’t typically create elaborate concepts or heavily direct portrait sessions unless there is a specific vision in mind. Instead, I encourage people to show up as themselves, wear something they feel comfortable in, and trust the process.
The goal is always to create portraits that feel authentic to the person in front of my camera. Whether I’m photographing a portrait session in Belltown, the Seattle waterfront, or another location around the city, I want the photographs to feel connected to the person and the place. The best moments usually happen when there is room for spontaneity—when we can move, explore, and allow the location to become part of the story.
This Seattle waterfront portrait photography session was also my first time using the Nikon 58mm f/1.4G lens, and it quickly became a favorite for environmental portrait work. The unique focal length takes some adjustment, but the quality of the images is incredible. The lens produces beautifully smooth backgrounds, handles backlighting exceptionally well, and has a character that feels especially suited for natural, documentary-style portraits.
One funny detail from this shoot: despite spending time photographing around the Seattle Great Wheel I’ve somehow never actually ridden it. I suppose that’s one more Seattle experience to add to the list.
