Senior session location idea:
What’s Your Style? Urban, Modern, or Classic Architecture for Senior Pictures in Downtown Des Moines
Your senior pictures should reflect your personality—and the location you choose plays a huge role in setting the tone. Downtown Des Moines offers everything from gritty urban alleyways to sleek modern buildings and timeless, historic architecture.
Not sure what fits you best? Here’s a look at some senior photography styles you can choose from—featuring real portraits captured around downtown Des Moines.
Classic Architecture: Timeless & Sophisticated
Des Moines’ historic buildings, like the Iowa State Capitol or the World Food Prize building, offer stunning backdrops filled with character and history.
Stone columns, archways, and carved details give portraits a dreamy, vintage feel—perfect for dresses, flowy skirts, or something a bit dressier.
Take Riley’s photo on the steps of a historic building—barefoot and elegant. It’s a soft, romantic look that never goes out of style.
Urban Grit: Brick Walls, Graffiti & Back Alley Vibes for Senior Pictures in Des Moines
If bold and expressive is your style, downtown Des Moines has the perfect backdrop for senior portraits. Back alleys near Court Avenue and the East Village offer exposed brick, faded paint, graffiti walls, and textured concrete—bringing that raw, urban energy to your session. These locations work especially well for casual looks, bold color choices, or seniors who want to capture their personality in an authentic, eye-catching way.
Choosing this vibe for your senior pictures in Des Moines adds a layer of texture and storytelling that feels dynamic, confident, and totally unique.
Modern Style: Clean, Sleek & Sophisticated
Downtown Des Moines offers sleek and contemporary architecture like glassy parking garages or the Krause Gateway Center. These locations highlight structure, symmetry, and reflection—ideal for seniors who love a polished or minimalist aesthetic.
Industrial-Modern: Clean Lines & Urban Structure for Des Moines Senior Photography
For seniors who want an urban look without the rough edges, industrial-modern spots around downtown Des Moines are a great fit. Think metal railings, brushed concrete, glass reflections, and structural detail. These locations offer a clean, stylish background that works beautifully with sleek, monochrome outfits or a fashion-forward look.
Whether you’re aiming for a professional, editorial vibe or just want something fresh and uncluttered, this style brings a polished twist to your senior photo session in downtown Des Moines.
Downtown Des Moines is a goldmine for senior photography—and your perfect location depends on your personal style. Whether you’re feeling edgy and urban, modern and minimalist, or timeless and elegant, there’s a spot downtown that will help bring your senior portrait vision to life.
Not Sure Which Style Is Right for You?
That’s the best part—we can mix and match. Downtown Des Moines is compact enough to explore multiple styles in a single session. Start in a sunlit alley, swing by a modern glass wall, and wrap up on Capitol steps. Your final gallery will feel dynamic, cohesive, and you.