Faith, Friendship, and Graduation

A Senior Portrait Session Close to My Heart

This past week, I had the joy of photographing a very special senior — my friend’s beautiful daughter, whom I know through church and our close-knit homeschool community.

Our families attend the same church and are part of the same homeschool co-op. Both of us are blessed with large families, and our children have become close.

This senior and my daughter are not only friends, but also violin classmates, attend co-op together, and are members of American Heritage Girls (AHG). So when her mom asked if I would take her senior portraits, it felt like more than just a photoshoot — it was a personal and heartfelt honor.

We met at Sholom Park in Ocala, FL, a lovely and peaceful place that offers a variety of unique backdrops. Though the park closes at 5 p.m., which keeps us from catching golden hour light, we opted for a quiet morning session. The sun was still soft and low, creating a gentle glow that perfectly matched the mood of the shoot.

This graduate brought along several meaningful props that told her story: her violin, AHG uniform adorned with the many badges she’s earned, her graduation cap and gown, her rosary, a sketchbook, and her staple sneakers that added charm to her sundress outfits. Each item reflected a different piece of who she is — artistic, faithful, accomplished, and grounded.

We strolled through the park, laughing, reminiscing, and capturing this milestone moment as naturally as it unfolded. Her joy and grace radiated through every shot, and I was grateful to be behind the camera for such a meaningful occasion.

To this graduate: I’m so proud of you. Seeing you grow into such a thoughtful, creative, and virtuous young woman has been a blessing. I can’t wait to see where God leads you next.