The Best 5 Tips for Taking Senior Portraits with Livestock

high school senior squatting in front of his tractor outside holding goats

If you grew up on a farm like I did, you know that life surrounded by livestock is more than a lifestyle: it’s a legacy. Animals are important especially when it comes to raising livestock. These animals hold a special place in everyone’s heart. Some high school seniors choose to include their livestock in their photoshoots, when they are involved with 4-H, FFA, or have led a farming lifestyle. With these five important tips, you can easily and safely incorporate livestock in your senior portraits.

Growing Up on the Farm

I was born and raised on our family farm right outside of Old Fort, Ohio, just a few miles. As kids, we didn’t have battery-operated toys to drive, so we played “feed the cows.” And I mean that literally! With about 50 head of Angus cattle in our barn, there was always something to do (and let’s be honest — it was probably my dad’s way of keeping us busy!).

Growing up in agriculture teaches lessons you can’t find in a textbook such as dedication, patience, and the deep sense of pride that comes from hard work. Whether your family raises chickens, hogs, or cattle, every farm has one thing in common: someone who truly cares for their animals. That care is what makes the agriculture industry so special.

Many farm kids get their start through 4-H or FFA, two organizations that shape young leaders through hands-on learning. After 13 years in 4-H here in Ohio, I can honestly say it was one of the best decisions I ever made. It’s also where I discovered my love for photography! I took my first 4-H photography project in high school and never looked back. It’s amazing how those early projects grew into the business I run today.

Recently, I had the privilege of photographing Cohen and Addison, two hardworking 4-H members from Sandusky County, Ohio. Cohen’s session took place on the family farm between the Ohio State Fair and his county fair, complete with his livestock and his late grandpa’s cherished Corvette Sting Ray. Addison’s session, on the other hand, happened right at the Sandusky County Fair, surrounded by the sights and sounds that made her 4-H journey so memorable. Both sessions were beautiful reminders that behind every blue or purple ribbon are hours of care, effort, and heart.

Tips for Including Livestock in Your Senior Photos

If you’re a farm kid wanting to include your animals in your senior portraits, here are a few helpful tips to make your session meaningful and fun:

Use a Familiar Environment: Photographing on your family farm or at your fairgrounds helps your livestock stay calm and brings authenticity to your photos.

Coordinate Your Outfit: Choose clothing that complements your animal such as neutral tones, denim, or even your FFA jacket can create a timeless look.

Show Connection: Don’t just pose! Interact with your animals! Scratch your steer’s chin, lean against your horse, or walk your goat. These moments capture your bond naturally.

Include Personal Touches: Incorporate your ribbons, halters, or even a tractor because they all tell part of your story.

Be Patient: Animals have minds of their own! Allow time for breaks and let your photographer capture genuine, candid moments.

At the end of the day, senior portraits with livestock are more than just pretty pictures. They’re a celebration of hard work, dedication, and the agricultural lifestyle that shaped you. Because when you grow up on a farm, you know success doesn’t come from just showing up on show day. It comes from the hours, effort, and love you pour into what you do.

Hard work truly pays off, and it’s worth capturing.

Ready to Document Your Farm Story?

If you’re a high school senior in Northwest Ohio who wants to include your animals in your photos, I’d love to help tell your story. From quiet moments in the barn to candid shots at the fairgrounds, your livestock session should reflect the pride and dedication behind your years of hard work.

Let’s celebrate your roots with a senior session that’s as authentic as your agricultural story! I’m still booking seniors for the Class of 2026! Message me to find a date that works for you.