There I was, ready for golden hour magic with my couple at one of our favorite local spots—dreamy trees, glowy light, everything just right. But as I pulled into the parking lot, I instantly knew this session wasn’t going to go exactly as planned.

Swarming the venue?

At least fifty high schoolers in formal wear, parents with iPhones, and a whole parade of corsages, clip-in extensions, and awkward poses. Yep—prom photo central.

Here’s the thing about being a professional photographer:

it’s not always about perfect conditions.

It’s about staying flexible and knowing how to pivot when things get crowded, loud, or just plain unexpected.

So, what do I do in moments like these?

1. Greet the Chaos with a Smile (and a Backup Plan)

First, I laugh. Because if you’ve been doing this long enough, you know spring weekends are prom landmines. That’s why I always have a backup location or two in my back pocket, especially during prom and homecoming season. If the vibe isn’t working, we pivot—quickly and confidently—to somewhere a little more low-key.

2. Use the Crowds Creatively

If my couple is feeling playful and open-minded, sometimes we stay and make it part of the story. Tighter crops, dreamy close-ups, and strategic angles can make it seem like they’re the only two people in the world—even when a group of teens is screaming over someone’s rhinestone heels five feet away.

It’s actually kind of romantic in its own way: this idea that even in the middle of all the noise, they’re in their own little world together.

3. Find the Hidden Corners

Even the most popular parks or gardens have secret nooks and quiet paths. I scout those the second I see a crowd. It might not be the sweeping open field we originally planned for, but I’ll take soft light and an empty bench over a photobombing prom group any day.

4. Reassure the Couple (and Keep it Fun)

Most couples aren’t expecting a crowd, and I get it—it can feel overwhelming. But I always reassure them that we’ve got this. I tell them, “We’re about to make some magic, even if we’re dodging tiaras.” Humor lightens the mood and helps them trust the process.

Pro tip: people in love photograph beautifully when they’re having fun—even if the circumstances aren’t perfect.

5. Know When to Reschedule (Rare, but It Happens)

If the lighting is gone, the vibe’s off, or the couple’s just not feeling it, I’m not afraid to say, “Let’s come back another day.” I’d rather deliver a stunning gallery later than force a rushed session with 30 teens doing TikTok dances in the background.

In the End…

The unexpected is part of the job. It’s what turns us into creative problem-solvers, light-chasers, and scene-stealers. And honestly? Some of my favorite galleries were born in the middle of a mess.

So if you ever show up to your engagement shoot and there’s a prom invasion happening—don’t worry. We’ll find the light, find the love, and make it work.