Senior Photographer in Des Moines | Izzy’s Faith + Soccer Story
When Izzy first described herself, she laughed and said she was “low maintenance, low key, never wears makeup, and lets her hair go.” And I absolutely loved that. Her session for her senior pictures in Des Moines was all about capturing her—natural, genuine, joyful—and it couldn’t have been more fun.
We started downtown at St. Ambrose in Des Moines, soaking in the arches and beautiful architecture. Izzy brought her Bible and rosary, a meaningful way to include her faith in her senior portraits. Then we added the things that make her come alive: her soccer uniform and ball, and even “Bruce,” the Robotics Club’s beloved robot emeritus. Watching her interact with Bruce and juggle the soccer ball brought out the biggest smiles—her personality just lit up. These little details are exactly why I love being a senior photographer in the Des Moines metro area. She is so close to her dad, that she even marked her spot in her Bible to the book of Joshua with her rosary – a quiet, personal nod to him that no one would know unless you were there to see her do it.
We also had fun with a cap and gown (borrowed from a friend who already graduated). It’s always a reality check for parents to see their “baby” in that cap for the first time. For Izzy’s parents, Josh and Deanna, it was one of those gulp-hard moments—realizing their youngest is about to fly the nest.
One of my favorite moments came when I asked Josh what he loved most about Izzy. He didn’t hesitate: “She’s just like me. She’s my sidekick.” With her older brothers so much older, their bond is extra special—two peas in a pod. Even at the end of the shoot, when I asked about weekend plans, it was soccer for Izzy and football for Josh. He joked she’d be driving to her game while he caught the big game on his phone, riding shotgun with her.
These are the kinds of details I love weaving into senior sessions. When a senior brings the hobbies, faith, or family connections that matter most to them, the photos tell their story in the most authentic way. And for Izzy, that story was full of joy, love, and a little bit of Robotics Club magic.
Izzy, Josh & Deanne – Thank you so much for having me document this stage of your family’s life and Izzy’s interests before she flies the nest. It’s been really fun to get to know her, her interests and your family. It’s an honor to spend time with you and my camera in hand.
All the best on Izzy’s senior year!
Carrie
PS You can view the rest of our time together HERE.
You can view other senior sessions from this summer’s fun HERE.
