Stepping into the Arcade in downtown Cleveland feels like traveling back in time. Built in 1890, this architectural gem was one of the first indoor shopping centers in the United States, often referred to as “Cleveland’s Crystal Palace.” Over a century later, it still holds onto its timeless elegance, with its intricate ironwork, golden balconies, and breathtaking glass skylight that floods the space with natural light.

Christopher’s senior photoshoot was the perfect match for this iconic setting. His sophisticated outfit choices—sharp blazers, tailored fits, and classic tones—blended seamlessly with the Arcade’s vintage charm. He embodied both modern confidence and timeless style!

First, Christopher wore a classic navy blue suit which couldn’t have complemented the Cleveland Arcade’s rich colors more perfectly. The deep blue stood out beautifully against the warm gold railings and the rich burgundy hues woven throughout the space. It was a striking contrast that gave his senior photos a polished, sophisticated feel. To complete the look, his tie subtly tied everything together—bringing just the right balance to his outfit while enhancing the refined, classic vibe of the setting.

After capturing a series of portraits with his full suit, we switched things up to create a different look. Christopher took off his suit jacket and tie, giving his photos a more relaxed yet still polished feel. This simple change added variety to his gallery, showcasing both the sharp, formal style of his full suit and the effortless confidence of a slightly more laid-back look.

To add even more variety to his session, Christopher changed into a rich burgundy shirt paired with a navy blue tie—a perfect combination that echoed the deep, classic tones of the Arcade. With so much gold detailing throughout the venue, we intentionally moved toward areas where the golden railings, ornate trim, and warm lighting would complement his new look. The way the gold reflected around him made the burgundy stand out beautifully, creating a bold yet refined aesthetic. This outfit change not only brought a fresh feel to his senior portraits but also highlighted how effortlessly Christopher’s style fit within the grandeur of the Arcade.

Christopher put his navy suit jacket back on, bringing his outfit full circle. This time, we moved toward the areas of the Arcade that featured its signature burgundy and deep red tones. The combination of his navy suit against the rich, warm hues of the space created a striking contrast that felt both bold and timeless.

After capturing a variety of looks inside the Arcade, we stepped outside to take advantage of the beautiful day. Christopher was excited about the architecture around downtown Cleveland, making it the perfect opportunity to explore a few more locations. In the background of some of his outdoor portraits, you can see the Howard M. Metzenbaum U.S. Courthouse—a stunning, historic building that added even more grandeur to his senior photos.

What a cool senior photo for a drummer!!!

Lastly, we made our way to the Cleveland Public Library, a perfect final stop for Christopher’s session. Taking a senior photo on the grand marble staircase was a must—it’s one of the most breathtaking spots in the library, with its elegant architecture adding a timeless feel to the portraits. After that, we headed upstairs, where Christopher felt right at home among the endless rows of books. As an avid reader, this setting was especially meaningful to him, and capturing a few portraits in this space was the perfect way to tie his session together.

Christopher’s senior session was a perfect blend of sophistication, style, and a celebration of the places that inspire him. From the historic beauty of the Arcade to the grand architecture of downtown Cleveland and the quiet charm of the library, each location reflected a different side of his personality. His outfit choices, confidence, and appreciation for the city made every shot feel intentional and timeless. It was an incredible session, and I have no doubt that Christopher’s future will be just as bright and full of possibility as the settings we explored that day!