By Ranyia C. Photography — Fashion Photographer in South Florida (West Palm Beach, Palm Beach County)

Yesterday’s session with Chantel felt like coming full circle. We first worked together a few years ago for her graduation photos, and having her return for her 37th birthday shoot meant so much to me. There’s something special about clients who come back—there’s already a comfort, a natural flow, and an understanding of each other’s creative energy. And with Chantel, that vibe is always warm, fun, easygoing, and filled with joy. This session was even better than the first time.

A Fresh Take on a Birthday Shoot

What I loved most is that Chantel wanted something different—no traditional balloons, no oversized numbers, none of the typical birthday trends. Instead, she wanted earthy tones, soft textures, and a more mature, elevated aesthetic. She brought a cupcake and a bouquet of flaked florals for props, and even those minimal touches added a beautiful hint of personality without overwhelming the look.

Setting Up at 2711 Studios

We shot at 2711 Studios in Pompano, a space I’ve worked in a few times and always enjoy because of its variety of themed backgrounds. Chantel actually arrived a little early, and once our 1:15 session began, we got right into prepping the space.

While she finished getting ready, I styled the flowers she brought, arranging them in a vase so they photographed cleanly and naturally. I tested lighting setups to match the tones she wanted, and printed reference poses she loved so we could move efficiently. But of course, I guided her through posing, styling, and movement throughout the shoot—demonstrating poses myself and helping her find what felt natural and flattering.

The First Background — Soft, Warm, Earth-Inspired

For our first look, we used one of the studio’s tan and cream textured walls featuring a beautiful architectural arch and organic, curved steps. The tones complemented her perfectly. It instantly gave the images that warm, earthy, editorial feel she wanted.

The Second Background — Brown Over Green, and the Best Decision

Originally, Chantel was hoping for a green backdrop, but the studio didn’t have the exact shade we envisioned. Our choices were a very pale green-gray or a rich brown. Because she wanted to stay within earthy tones, we chose the brown—and it ended up being the perfect call.

The color, combined with the props and her outfit, created some of my favorite images from the entire shoot. When I uploaded the photos that evening and saw everything come together on screen, I had a genuine “wow” moment. And the next morning, she texted me, so excited and surprised at how beautifully everything turned out.

Another Heartfelt, Successful Session

Working with Chantel again reminded me exactly why I love doing what I do. Every session is a chance to create something meaningful—something that celebrates a milestone, a moment, or simply a season of life worth remembering.

Closing Thought — Creating Art, Not Just Photos

One of my favorite things about shoots like this is the opportunity to create art with my clients and help them feel like art themselves. So many birthday shoots default to balloons and white backdrops—and while those can be fun, they’re not the kind of imagery that truly inspires me.

If you’re coming to me, it’s because you want something more intentional. Something elevated. Something you’d be proud to hang on your wall, not just post for a day online. I love crafting images that feel timeless, personal, and far from predictable. If that’s the kind of birthday shoot you’re dreaming of, I’d be honored to bring that vision to life.

Chantel’s 37th Birthday Shoot; Earthy, Elegant, and Artfully Unconventional