Senior Spotlight: Luke Sievers

Luke Sievers – Class of 2026
Rock Bridge High School | Columbia, MO

Every so often, I get the chance to photograph someone whose story I already know a little bit about. I had that opportunity again with Luke Sievers, a 2026 senior from Rock Bridge High School in Columbia, MO.

I first met Luke behind the camera lens as he crossed the finish line to win the MSHSAA State Cross Country Meet as a sophomore. Even then, it was clear he had a drive that set him apart. When we met for his senior photo session, that same focus and quiet determination came through just as clearly—only now, it’s shaped by more experience and perspective.

Luke plans to run in college but is still exploring where that might be. Wherever he ends up, it’s clear he’ll bring more than speed to the team. He’s already learned lessons most people don’t pick up until much later.

When I asked him about his favorite high school memory, Luke shared:

“I’ll always hold onto the first day of actual practice, my freshman year. I had done all the summer workouts, but when I showed up to that first practice, my coach’s intensity was completely different. I was just sitting there in shock at how someone could get so fired up about something that hadn’t even happened yet.”

Earlier this year, I learned that Luke wasn’t able to compete in the outdoor track season due to an injury. As he reflected on it as one of his toughest challenges, he said:

“Even though all I wanted to do was go run and deal with the pain and consequences later, I listened to my doctors and found other ways to fuel my competitive drive while keeping my leg from snapping in half.”

Knowing that Luke is so driven, I know that time had to be extra hard since he couldn’t compete.

We know that where we get is often has to do with the role others played in our lives. When asked who had shaped him, Luke didn’t hesitate to name two key people:

“My coach and my mom are my biggest inspirations. My mom inspires me to be the best human being I can be—always trying to fix the little things that can have a big impact on others, even when I don’t see them. My coach has taught me the importance of discipline and determination, not just in sports, but in everyday life.”

I really like to give seniors an opportunity to share some of their experiences with others. So, when I asked him about his advice for incoming freshmen, he shared something important:

“Be true to who you are. Don’t let others shape you and what you want to be. Find people and things that enhance you and build you up—not change you and bring you down.”

Here’s one fun twist I didn’t expect: I found out recently that Luke’s dad was part of the HR team that hired me 13 years ago. It’s been interesting reflecting on how young Luke would have been at that time and how old my old kids would have been too. It’s a small world, and I’m glad our paths crossed again—this time, in a whole new context.

Luke, congratulations on your senior year! I can’t wait to see where your next chapter leads.

How to Take Better Prom Photos: Posing Tips & Location Advice

Prom is a big deal — the outfits are sharp, the energy is high, and parents everywhere are getting ready to take a lot of pictures. Whether you're capturing the moment with your phone or helping your teen pose for a photographer, a little direction goes a long way.

Here’s a photographer’s guide to help make those prom photos look polished, natural, and frame-worthy.

Posing Tips That Actually Work

These simple adjustments can turn a “meh” pose into a photo you’ll love:

For the guys:

  • Pocket placement matters. Skip the full-hand shove. Try:

    • Thumb out, fingers tucked in.

    • Or fingers out, thumb tucked in. It gives shape without looking stiff.

  • Stand tall, not rigid. Keep shoulders relaxed, feet hip-width apart, and shift your weight slightly to one leg. A subtle lean adds confidence.

  • Use the jacket. Wearing a tux or suit? Hold the front lapel or adjust a cuff — it keeps your hands busy and adds a bit of style.

For the girls:

  • Avoid the stomach hand. It might feel sweet in the moment, but placing your hand on your date’s stomach can be awkward. It may even make them look like they are expecting. Try resting it gently on his chest, shoulder, or upper arm instead.

  • Use the classic stance. Turn slightly to the side, place your weight on your back leg, and bend the front knee. It flatters the body and adds movement.

  • Think intentional hands.

    • If holding a clutch or corsage, bring it forward or to your side — not pressed against your waist.

    • No props? Try placing one hand lightly on your hip (with your elbow slightly back) or crossing it gently over your midsection at an angle. Avoid just letting your arms hang.

  • Linked arms or soft contact. When posing with your date or friends, try linking arms or resting a hand lightly on their shoulder. It feels connected and looks natural.

For everyone:

  • Chin out, not up. Push your chin forward just a bit — not up or tucked — to define the jawline and avoid shadows.

  • Relax the smile. Real smiles always win. Don’t be afraid to laugh, talk, or have a little fun during the photos. Those candid moments are often the best ones.

  • Feet placement matters. Slightly turn one foot out or stagger your stance. Standing square to the camera can feel stiff.

Where to Take Prom Photos: Light & Location Tips

You don’t need a fancy venue to get great photos — just good light and a thoughtful backdrop.

  • Full shade is your friend. Harsh sun creates squinting, dark shadows, and blown-out details. Look for solid shade under trees, beside buildings, or anywhere the light is even.

  • Avoid patchy light. Sunlight streaming through leaves may look magical in person, but it often creates odd light spots on faces in photos.

  • Check the background. A great photo can be ruined by a trash can or a tree “growing” out of someone’s head. Keep it clean and simple.

  • Neutral backdrops shine. Trees, tall grasses, brick walls, fences, or gravel paths work great. Let the people and outfits be the stars.

Final Tip: Keep It Light

Prom is about having fun. Don’t over-direct every pose or stress over perfection. Let the kids enjoy the moment — some of the best photos happen in between the posed ones, when no one’s paying attention to the camera.

As a photographer, I’ve learned that small details make a big difference — and that great prom photos can be a gateway to even more meaningful sessions down the road, like senior portraits or family shoots. But for now, just enjoy the sparkle and excitement of the day.

Happy prom season!

The Ultimate Guide to Senior Photos: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Senior year is a big milestone, and capturing it with beautiful photos is a great way to celebrate. Whether you’re a senior or a parent, knowing when to schedule, what to bring, and how to prepare can make a huge difference in how the session turns out. Here’s everything you need to know to get the most out of your senior photo experience with Alan Combs Photography.

Best Time to Schedule Senior Photos

Summer Before Senior Year
The best time to schedule senior photos is the summer before senior year. School hasn’t started yet, so students are more relaxed and have flexible schedules. Once school kicks in, between classes, sports, and activities, it can be tough to find time. Planning ahead helps ensure you get your preferred time and date.

Fall and Beyond
While summer is ideal, fall sessions are also popular—especially for families who love colorful leaves and cooler temperatures. However, not all seniors are drawn to seasonal elements. Some prefer urban or more neutral settings that can be done anytime during the year. I’m always open to discussing your vision and making it happen!

Book Early for Flexibility
My schedule fills up quickly, so booking at least a month in advance allows for more flexibility. Whether it’s a summer sunset session or a fall-themed shoot, we’ll work together to lock in the best date for your needs.

Choosing the Perfect Session Package

Session Length and Variety
I offer a variety of senior session packages that accommodate different needs. I usually recommend sessions that are at least an hour long. This gives us time to explore different locations, try a few outfit changes, and create a variety of looks that reflect your personality.

Location and Outfit Changes
My sessions are typically shot on location, and I’m always up for exploring new spots. If you have a specific place in mind—a family farm, a favorite park, or even a cool urban setting—just let me know. Outfit changes are also a great way to add variety and express different sides of your personality.

Bring What Matters: Personalizing Your Session

Showcase Your Passions
One of the best ways to make your session unique is by bringing items that are meaningful to you. Instruments, cars, hats, sports gear, and even medals can add a personal touch that makes your photos feel authentically “you.” I’ve had athletes bring their letter jackets and runners pose with their shoes or medals. These details make the session more about the senior and their story.

Preparing for the Session: Tips for Success

Outfits that Reflect You
Choose outfits that feel comfortable and represent who you are. Avoid anything too busy or distracting, as it can take away from your natural vibe. If you’re unsure about what works best, we can discuss outfit options before the session.

Hair, Makeup, and Grooming
If you’re getting a haircut, do it at least a week before the session to allow it to settle. For makeup, aim for a natural look that enhances your features without feeling overdone.

Relax and Have Fun
If you’re nervous about the session, I’m always happy to chat with you beforehand to walk you through what to expect. The goal is to make the session fun and comfortable, so you’ll love the results.

What to Expect After the Session

Gallery and Photo Options
A couple of weeks after your session, I’ll deliver a gallery of professionally edited images. Each package includes a set number of images, with the option to purchase additional photos or the entire gallery. I also offer prints, albums, and wall art to preserve these memories for years to come.

Discounted Print Packages
If you’re interested in prints, I offer packages that include discounts to make sure you can enjoy high-quality prints without breaking the bank.

Making the Experience Fun & Memorable

Involving Parents or Friends
Parents are welcome to be part of the process. However, I always encourage talking to your senior about what they prefer—some feel more relaxed with a parent nearby, while others might prefer to bring a friend along for support. Either way, the focus is on making the senior feel comfortable and at ease.

Collaborating for Creativity
I don’t want sessions to feel stiff or boring. I love collaborating with seniors to make the experience enjoyable and reflective of who they are. Even if they’re not excited about the idea of photos at first, once we get started, I can help them relax and have fun.

Ready to Book? Let’s Chat!

Senior photos should be about capturing this exciting milestone in a way that feels authentic and memorable. If you’re ready to schedule a session or have questions about packages, locations, or anything else, I’d love to chat and start planning your perfect session!

Affordable School Photos for Homeschool Families

As a homeschool parent, you do so much to make your child’s education special — why not capture those moments with a professional school photo? At Alan Combs Photography, we’re excited to offer school photo sessions specifically for homeschool families!

We know that traditional school photos aren’t always accessible to homeschoolers, so we’re making it easy and affordable for you to get high-quality portraits of your kids.

Here’s what we’re offering:

  • No sitting fees — That’s right, you only pay for the photos you want.

  • Prints starting at just $10 — Affordable options for every budget.

  • Digital downloads for $35 — Perfect for sharing with family or printing later.

Our goal is to make sure homeschool families have the same opportunity to capture their children's growth year after year.

Interested in Joining Us?

We’ll be scheduling a day specifically for homeschool families to come in and get their school photos taken. If you’re interested, please fill out the form linked below so we can keep you informed about the date, location, and any other details.

👉 Sign Up Here

By filling out the form, you’re not committing to anything — it just helps us gauge interest and keep you in the loop.

We look forward to capturing beautiful school photos for your family!

Why Professional Photography Still Matters in the Smartphone Era

These days, almost everyone has a smartphone with a good camera. It’s easy to snap a photo with just a tap. But there’s a big difference between taking a picture and creating an image that’s truly special. Professional photography is still important for many reasons. Here’s why:

A Personal Perspective

I don’t care how many times I try, I seldom am able to get a smartphone to take a quality image for me. I don’t know if it’s that the lenses are often dirty or the lack of control, but I’ve seen some pretty unique images come from a smartphone. Sometimes, I even begin to wonder: why would someone ever pay to hire a photographer? With so many photos being taken at a whim and tight budgets being a reality for many, why invest in a professional?

More Than Just Equipment

Smartphones can take good pictures, but professional photographers bring skills that no device can replace. They understand how to use light, angles, and timing to create amazing photos. For example, they know how to catch the exact moment when an athlete wins a race or make sure a bride’s dress looks perfect in the sunlight.

Editing Makes a Difference

Even with a good camera, photos often need editing to look their best. Professional photographers use advanced tools to make colors pop, fix small issues, and bring out every detail. Editing takes a photo from good to amazing, creating images that last forever.

Reliable Results

Anyone can take a nice picture once in a while, but professionals deliver great photos every time. Whether it’s a family portrait, a business event, or a wedding, hiring a professional means you’ll get high-quality photos that match your expectations.

Making People Comfortable

Professional photographers know how to make people feel at ease. This helps them capture natural, genuine expressions. Whether it’s calming a nervous senior during a portrait session or managing a group of excited kids, professionals know how to get the best out of everyone.

Memories That Last

Smartphone photos often get posted on social media and then forgotten. Professional photography, on the other hand, creates memories you can hold onto. While you don’t always have to order prints, having the option to do so is a big advantage. Professional photographers have connections to top-quality labs that ensure your images look amazing in print. Whether it’s a framed picture, an album, or a large canvas, the quality of professional images truly stands out when printed, making keepsakes you’ll treasure for years to come.

Helping Businesses Stand Out

For businesses, professional photography can make a big difference. Great photos help build a strong brand and show attention to detail. Whether it’s action shots of a sports team or images for a marketing campaign, professional photos make businesses look their best.

Why It Matters

Smartphones have made it easy to take photos, but they can’t replace the skill and creativity of a professional photographer. At Alan Combs Photography, we believe in creating images that tell stories, show emotions, and capture moments you’ll never forget.

So, the next time you decide whether to hire a professional photographer, consider this: Do you want just another photo or a memory that truly stands out? Many people don’t even consider hiring a photographer because they assume it’s too expensive or unnecessary. But professional photography is an investment in capturing life’s most meaningful moments. Contact us today to make sure your special memories are preserved beautifully.

What to Look for When Hiring a Photographer

Hiring a photographer can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. In recent years, the market has seen an influx of newer photographers offering lower prices. While cost is a valid consideration, it shouldn’t be the only factor guiding your decision. Your photos capture moments you’ll never get back, so choosing the right photographer is crucial. Here’s what to look for to ensure you hire a professional who meets your expectations:

1. Consistency

A key hallmark of a skilled photographer is consistency. Review their portfolio and look for uniformity in the quality of their work. Do the lighting, colors, and editing styles match across various shoots? Inconsistent work can indicate a lack of experience or a tendency to rely on luck rather than skill. You want someone who can deliver exceptional results every time.

2. Quality

High-quality photography stands out. Look closely at the details: Are the images sharp? Are the colors natural and well-balanced? Do they have a professional finish? High-quality photos are more than just pretty pictures; they’re crafted with technical precision and artistic vision.

3. Experience

Experience matters. An experienced photographer has encountered a wide range of scenarios and knows how to adapt to challenges, whether it’s tricky lighting, a demanding schedule, or unexpected weather. They also understand how to manage clients, timelines, and shot lists to ensure a smooth process.

Reputation speaks volumes. Take the time to read reviews and testimonials from previous clients. Look for patterns in feedback: Do clients praise their professionalism, communication, and final results? Pay attention to how the photographer handles critiques or suggestions.

4. Professionalism

Professionalism extends beyond taking photos. How does the photographer communicate? Do they provide clear contracts and set expectations upfront? A professional photographer will treat your project with care and ensure your experience is as stress-free as possible.

5. Investment vs. Price

While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, remember that photography is an investment. A lower price often reflects limited experience, cheaper equipment, or rushed editing. Investing in a professional ensures you’ll receive photos you’ll cherish for years to come.

6. Creative Vision

A great photographer brings more to the table than technical skill; they bring creativity. Look for someone whose work resonates with you, who tells stories through their images, and who is excited to collaborate on your vision.

7. Reliability

The best photographer is one you can trust. They should show up on time, deliver on promises, and meet deadlines without fail. Reliability comes from professionalism, organization, and respect for your time and investment.

Final Thoughts

When hiring a photographer, take the time to evaluate their consistency, quality, experience, and professionalism. A higher price often reflects these qualities and is worth the investment for timeless, beautiful images. Remember, photos are more than just pictures—they’re memories captured forever.

At Alan Combs Photography, we pride ourselves on delivering consistent, high-quality results with years of experience across various photography styles. If you’re looking for a photographer who values your vision and delivers exceptional results, let’s connect!

The Value of Team and Individual Sports Photos

For parents, there’s nothing more rewarding than watching your child thrive in their favorite sport. Capturing these moments through professional team and individual photos ensures you’ll have cherished keepsakes of their athletic journey. At Alan Combs Photography, we’re committed to providing families with high-quality sports portraits that highlight their athlete’s dedication and spirit.

What Sets Our Team and Individual Photos Apart

Our approach to team and individual sports photography is built on professionalism, efficiency, and a passion for showcasing each athlete’s unique personality. Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:

  1. Seamless Pre-Order Process: We offer a simple pre-order system for parents. Before photo day, you’ll have the opportunity to select the photo packages that work best for you, whether you want prints, digital downloads, or specialty items like magnets and photo buttons.

  2. Professional On-Site Setup: On photo day, we bring top-of-the-line equipment to ensure every athlete looks their best. From lighting to backdrops, we create a polished setup that highlights your child’s personality and pride in their sport.

  3. Quick Turnaround: We know you’re eager to see the results! After the photos are taken, we process and deliver prints within a couple of weeks, ensuring you have beautiful keepsakes to enjoy without a long wait.

How It Works

  1. Pre-Order Your Package: Before photo day, you’ll receive a flyer or email with details about our packages and pricing. Simply choose the option that best fits your needs and submit your order.

  2. Photo Day: On the scheduled date, we’ll photograph each athlete individually and the entire team together. We ensure every child feels comfortable and confident, capturing their best moments.

  3. Receive Your Prints: Within a few weeks, you’ll receive your order, complete with high-quality prints and any specialty items you selected.

Tips for a Successful Photo Day

To make sure your athlete’s photos turn out great, here are a few tips:

  • Come Prepared: Ensure your child’s uniform is clean and pressed. Don’t forget any gear or props that represent their sport.

  • Stay On Schedule: Arrive at the designated time to keep the session running smoothly.

  • Encourage Confidence: A smile and a positive attitude make all the difference in creating photos you’ll love.

Create Lasting Memories

Team and individual sports photos are more than just pictures—they’re a way to celebrate your child’s hard work and dedication. These images become treasured memories that you’ll look back on for years to come. At Alan Combs Photography, we’re honored to be part of preserving these special moments.

If your team is interested in scheduling a photo session, or if you’d like to learn more about our packages, don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s make this season unforgettable!

MSHSAA State Cross Country

This year’s state meet was November 3rd & 4th at Gans Creek Cross Country Course in Columbia, MO. I couldn’t make the Class 1 & Class 2 races, but I captured as much as possible from Classes 3, 4 & 5.

I love watching so many talented athletes race and trying to capture as much as I can of the races. However, when it’s all said and done, I end up with many photos that I want others to enjoy. After all, I believe these athletes should have photos of themselves racing.

Below you will find a link to the images if you would like to look through them. However, if you appreciate the photos, I’d love to have you follow me on Facebook and Instagram. It’s a simple way you can show your support.

All the images will be free to download for the personal use of the athletes, their parents, and their coaches. However, photography gear isn’t cheap, and I’m always looking to improve my work. If you feel inclined, tips can be sent to Alan-Combs-2 on Venmo. Either way, I appreciate you coming to my website and look forward to connecting with you.

If you download any images and post them to your social accounts, don’t forget to tag one of my accounts above. I’m always looking to connect!

Festival of Miles | Chasing the Sub 4 Minute Mile.

Every year, The Festival of Miles becomes better and better. If you haven’t heard about it before, it’s a track meet with youth and middle school races, high school races showcasing some of the nation’s top talent and pro races featuring Olympic-level athletes. Most of the events are focused around the mile, which a couple of races being only 800m. It started as a way to raise money for an athlete in need and continues to stay true to that mission.

We have been following Connor Burns and Simeon Birnbaum talk about their plans to run this race on The Running Effect podcast, so we made plans to attend to see what they guys were going to do. After all, if they were going to break the High School National Record, I wanted to see it.

That night, 4 High School Boys and 4 Elite Pro Athletes broke the 4 min mark. Simeon Birnbaum, Rocky Hanson, Tinoda Matsatsa, and Jackson Heidesch, all fought it out with all of them putting out PRs. Tinoda is the first black high schooler and Jackson Heidesch is the first Iowa High Schooler to ever break four. And we were there to watch and photograph the event.

I could go on and on about this event, but if you’re coming to my site, you’re likely looking for photos. Check them out at the link below. If you know someone that ran the race and they are looking for images, have them contact me.

Hoka sponsors this event every year. They make some of my favorite shoes. I'd highly recommend it if you haven’t given them a shot yet. Check out your local Fleet Feet to try them on. You won’t be disappointed.

MSHSAA State Track and Field | Class 3, 4, and 5

This past weekend, my wife and I spend 2 days photographing the MSHSAA State Track and Field Meet. As you may know by now, we have spent the last several months chasing the Fulton High School Track Team around the state to its various meets and this is the culmination of it all.

We only had two of athletes make it to state. Ethan Milius earned all-state with a fifth-place finish, and Gabe DeFily placed ninth, just off the podium.

We did meet a lot of other great athletes over the season as well. That’s one of the great things about track is that even if you are a rival school, you can make friends with those you compete with at every meet.

Mexico Missouri’s Morgan Grubb Pole Vaults at the 2023 State Track meet.

This was only one of a few times that we have photographed any event together like this. We were able to capture a lot of great images for athletes and got to witness so many things others might miss.

When you love running and the sport of Track and Field you can easily get sucked into wanting to see different athletes compete each week. You want them to succeed. You want them to throw farther, jump higher, run faster. You want to see them improve themselves week after week. You get invested in the story they are telling.

Class 3 Boys 1600m run.

I want to tell the stories of these athletes. I want them to share about what they go through. Their hard work. Their ups and down. I want them to know they don’t go unnoticed even if they aren’t winning every race. High school is hard. These kids need to know that what they do, does matter. It’s making an impact on someone whether they know it or not.

All the images we captured are free to view. If an athlete, coach, or parent wants to contact me for their athletes photo, I can work with you on a link that will allow you to download those images. These athletes deserve to have images to remember what they accomplished.

Check out the link below to see them all.

Downloads for athletes, parents, and coaches are free. If anyone feels like they want to contribute to the cause, I always take tips. My Venmo is Alan-Combs-2. This is just a little something I can do, to give back to the community.

MSHSAA Class 3 & 4 Districts | Connor Burns

Since Saturday, I’ve considered the best way to approach this blog post. Saturday’s MSHSAA Class 3 and 4 District meet in Wentzville, MO, was unlike any other meet I’ve ever witnessed. Twice in the middle of the meet, we had rain delays. There was lightning, heavy downpours, and enough wind to demolish canopies that weren’t staked down well.

As my son runs for the Fulton High School, I spent the day watching his teammates compete. Several of his teammates, like Ava Santhuff, Noah Thompson, and Kai Foster set PRs in their events. The school ended up sending several athletes to sectionals.

We were fortunate to watch a few of our other favorite athletes compete. Isaih Craighead and Tyler Grimes. Both are incredible athletes and it’s always fun to watch them compete.

Being from central Missouri, many people know of Connor Burns. He recently set the High School 5k record at 13:37 on the track at Track Fest in California. We’ve been watching him race for the last couple of years and just happened to be slated to race in the same location for districts as we were.

At this point, he is a local legend, and if you look through the photos above, you can see that he paced right along with Ben Chance, J.R. Lesher, and Quentin Hermann. These other boys are incredible athletes in their own right, but they happen to have to race Connor who is at another level.

I hope he will share what happened during the 3200m race on the Running Effect Podcast. You might be able to guess from the photos above, but it was pretty crazy to watch. If he doesn’t share, I’ll have to post more.

Class of 24 Senior Session Giveaway

Every year many seniors forgo having senior photos taken for one reason or another. I believe every senior deserves to have their memories captured so they and their parents can cherish them.

This year I am trying something new. I want to offer a chance for anyone to apply, either for themselves or someone they know, for an opportunity to have their senior photos taken for free.

I work hard to ensure each session is tailored to the senior and reflects who they are.

If you are a Class of 2024 senior, please complete this form. You can also fill it out if you are a parent or teacher and know of a deserving senior. The only qualification is that they have to live in Callaway County.

Fulton High School | Track & Field 2023

It’s been a busy month. We’ve been going to track meets throughout Mid-Missouri to capture Fulton athletes. One of the best aspects of going to each of the meets is watching these kids improve and getting to know their journey along the way.

It takes about ten days to see hard work pay off. Meaning the work you do today won’t truly impact your performance for ten days.

All season you watch, these athletes learn from each meet, conquer their mental challenges, and then you see improvements. For some athletes, the improvements are little. There is only so much time you can shave on in a 100 or 200. For others, like my son Noah, you can see 30+ seconds shaved off.

Like most things, physical training is only a portion of the battle. The mind can be so powerful. It can hold us back or, with the right work, allow us to break through barriers we never thought possible.

That is what I like about being around high school and college kids. They are often eager to learn, and really, for the most part, it’s helping them see what they are truly capable of.

If you want to see more images from this year’s track season, you can always check them out at the link below. It will be a link that will be continually updated until after the MSHSAA State track meet.

Fulton High School Track Meet | Montgomery City Early Invite 2023

If you have followed me long on social media, you know I have a passion for running, and everyone in my family runs in some capacity. My oldest son races as part of the Fulton High School Track Team, so we are at many of his races.

Last night was the Montgomery City Early Invite, which was cold and wet. I can’t remember the last time I saw high school athletes running in gear that wasn’t designed for performance. It’s early in the season, so they still have time to figure it out, but if you are looking through images and notice some unique attire, you know why.

I love getting to know each of the kids and seeing what they can do. I wish I had time to work with a few of them to help them learn how to strategize a race and think through their race beyond just what they have always done. Alas, I’m not their coach.

I’ll cheer on the athletes at as many meets as possible. I love seeing them grow and challenge themselves to new feats.

If you want to check out more photos, click the link below.

Fulton, MO | High School Senior Photos | Colton

Whenever I get a request from a high school senior parent about photographing their high school senior, one of the first things I try to figure out is what sort of things the senior is into. I want each session to be about the senior, not just your traditional photos.

Location

For this particular session, we went for something a bit different. Something more unique.

I’ve been shooting in Fulton, MO, for quite a few years and have often utilized the same locations as they do work well. However, I’ve noticed several other photographers using these locations lately and wanted to do something different. I wanted areas that hadn’t been used much before. I wanted places that pushed me to look creatively.

I did end up using one of the locations I have used more frequently in the past, but we spent quite a bit of time in a new area that I had been waiting for the right person to try some different shots with. This area felt like it fit the style we were going for. He even helped find a few different elements to incorporate that I hadn’t seen before.

Editing

With this session, I tried something I hadn’t tried before. His mom mentioned liking bright and airy images over darker, moodier ones. I have edited both routes in the past, and some photos call for a different type of editing. However, you must get certain photos for Mom in any session, including her kids. She is essential, and her opinion matters. After all, Mom is often the one paying for the session.

As I began editing, I decided to edit them two ways and provide both options on several images. Sometimes we want things the way we want them because we haven’t seen the possibilities.

My goal is always to make my clients love their images, so providing a couple of options with this session seemed right.

Do you know a student that needs senior photos? I’d love to work with them. Have their parent or guardian contact me at alan@alancombsphotography.com

Fulton High School Basketball

After watching the Fulton High School boy’ basketball team play the last few weeks, it would be fun to photograph some of their district play for my birthday.

We traveled to Westphalia, Mo, to watch them take on the Fatima High School team, expecting to see our boys dominate. They have had a series of great showings lately and are an aggressive team.

Unfortunately, the game didn’t end up going as planned.

They were fighting hard, but something was just different about this game. I could share my thoughts on the refs, the other team, and our team, but I’m no coach.

I’m sad I didn’t watch them play more this year, but I hope the team will return with a vengeance next year. They are losing some of their star players (who doesn’t like watching two teammates take turns dunking), but I know the game can look different next year and still be a good team.

If you'd like to check out more images from the game, you can check out the link below. All photos are free to download for parents and players. If you want to share them on social media, don’t forget to tag me or my business.

North Callaway Sectionals

Last night was a trip. I left the court feeling so deflated.

The North Callaway Thunderbirds put up a big fight all evening. From being up at the end of the first quarter 3-0 to going into halftime with a score of 12-6. The defense on both teams made the start of the game low scoring.

The game stayed low scoring even through the third quarter, with it ending 20-21, North Callaway finally down.

Then, the game ended in a tie. 33-33. I couldn’t believe it. Not only was it low scoring, but so close at the end, and it was a tie.

Then into overtime. Four minutes of playtime later, 40-40. Another overtime.

Another four minutes. 43-43. Yet another overtime. These teams continue to fight to see who will be the first to best the other team. It’s getting tense. The crowd is going wild.

With 1.8 seconds on the clock and what looks like we will be heading into another overtime, Cole Camp throws a last-minute, almost half-court three-pointer to win 54-51. The North Callaway team looked so defeated. They fought to stay ahead of the game, which came down to a lucky shot.

I felt so bad for them. They were so close. The energy was there, and they were still fighting hard. So hard to walk away from that.

I share all of that to say if you are interested, I’ve got quite a few photos available. They are free to download for the families of this year’s North Callaway High School Basketball team. Feel free to check them out at the link below.

North Callaway MSHSAA Class 3 District 7 Champs

Having grown up in Callaway County, most of our lives, my wife and I know quite a few people within the North Callaway School District. My wife graduated from North Callaway. I went to South Callaway and competed against them regularly.

Which brings me to February 24, 2023.

Earlier in the week my wife and I decided to go watch the school compete since we knew a few of the athletes. As I normally do, I made plans to take my cameras to see if I could capture a few images for memories.

Afterall, it’s been since 1999 since they have won districts in basketball.

And they won. They weren’t seeded to win, but they won. They knew what they needed to do, and they won.

It was such a great experience to be able to witness.

To check out the rest of the images from the game, click the Image Gallery button below. All images are free to download and use for personal use.

I don’t often shoot sports outside of cross country and track. It was quite an experience trying to get decent shots of the athletes with all that takes place. It was a fun experience either way.

A little side note. This was the first time I had been in the South Callaway gym since 2012. The Track and Field record board is up for everyone to see. Guess who’s name is still on there. But, that’s another story, for another time.

Fulton Courtwarming 2023

Several months ago, Fulton High School had its annual Homecoming dance. As usual, many high school kids dressed up, ate, took a few photos, and then went to the dance. My son was no exception.

Except as a photographer, I offered to photograph him, his date, and the friends he had with him. It worked well, and the students/parents were all happy to have quality photos.

This brings me to the Fulton High School Courtwarming.

Homecoming was such a hit that I started advertising that I would be available to shoot court-warming photos at an affordable cost. I love working with high school kids; it forced me out of the typical styles I would shoot; and put a little pressure on me to do it quickly.

It ended up being quite a success.

I spent over two hours photographing students and chatted with many of them about their plans for the rest of the evening. I even heard from parents later about how much they appreciated the opportunity and how happy they were with the photos.

I even had one of the students go in and leave me a review.

I’m thankful that I took the opportunity to do this and am looking forward to perhaps offering it again at Prom this year. Who knows, it may end up being something I offer year after year if it continues to be a success.