Shayna’s Cap and Gown + Mission Portraits at the Redlands Temple

You know that saying, “better late than never”? That pretty much sums up the first part of Shayna’s session. Her mom wanted portraits of her in her cap and gown — complete with the banner announcing Shayna as valedictorian. The funny part? She graduated a year ago. But hey, a title like valedictorian deserves to be celebrated whether it’s one week or one year later.

Cap and Gown, One Year Later

Shayna slipped into her cap and gown like she had just walked off the graduation stage. We set her up in front of that celebratory banner, and suddenly the moment didn’t feel “late” at all. It felt like we were pressing pause on a huge milestone — capturing something her family can hold onto long after the tassel has been turned.

From Senior Portraits to Mission Portraits

The bigger story of this shoot wasn’t about looking back. It was about what’s next. Shayna is heading out to serve a mission with her church, and she wanted portraits to mark the beginning of that journey. Mission portraits are a tradition in the LDS community, and they’re a powerful way to celebrate the faith and commitment it takes to serve.

The Redlands Temple as the Backdrop

We met at the Redlands Temple, a place that holds deep meaning and also happens to photograph beautifully. Its clean lines and peaceful grounds gave Shayna’s portraits a timeless, grounded feel — exactly what you want for images that will be shared, displayed, and cherished during her mission.

Details That Tell the Story

Shayna wore two dresses: one white with a blue floral pattern, and one in classic white. Both choices gave us variety while keeping the focus on her. We layered in personal details — the flag of the state where she’ll serve, her scriptures, and a few natural moments of her holding them, reflecting, and smiling. These touches are what make mission portraits unique. They’re not just “pretty pictures,” they’re symbols of the journey ahead.

Why Mission Portraits Matter

Serving a mission is a big deal. It’s a decision filled with purpose, faith, and excitement. Mission portraits give families something tangible to hold onto while their son or daughter is serving. They’re a way to mark the moment and say, “This is where it all began.”

As a photographer, I love creating senior portraits in the Inland Empire, but sessions like Shayna’s remind me how much meaning can be packed into a few simple images. From a cap and gown banner to the temple grounds, we captured both where she’s been and where she’s headed next.

Ready for Your Mission Portraits?

If you’re preparing to serve, or you know someone who is, let’s create portraits that tell your story. Whether it’s at the Redlands Temple or another meaningful location, I’ll guide you through wardrobe, props, and ideas so the images feel like you.

Reach out today to book your senior portraits or mission portraits in the Inland Empire. We’ll laugh, we’ll keep it relaxed, and you’ll walk away with images that celebrate this milestone the way it deserves.