One of my favorite things about being a senior photographer is discovering what makes each student uniquely themselves. Sometimes that’s athletics. Sometimes it’s theater, robotics, or music. And every once in a while…it’s beekeeping!
Zane’s senior session was one of those evenings that perfectly captured why I love creating personalized senior portraits. We began at the Norwalk Easter Public Library, where he volunteers his time, before heading to his family’s home to photograph some of the hobbies and interests that have shaped his high school years. Rather than choosing just one location, we built a session around the places and activities that tell his story.
I first met Zane years ago as his sixth-grade band teacher when he was learning to play the clarinet. Fast forward to today, and he’s earned All-State honors, become a proud member of the Black Shirt crew, and continues to be deeply involved in the arts. Watching students grow into confident, capable young adults is one of the unexpected blessings of teaching, and it’s been especially fun to watch Zane discover his passions along the way.
One of those passions began through an Iowa Honey Producers youth scholarship, where he discovered the fascinating world of beekeeping. Before we stepped anywhere near the hives, though, I had one important job—I needed to suit up! Thankfully, Zane made an excellent teacher, introducing me to queen bees, worker bees, drones, honey, and even propolis (otherwise known as “bee glue”). I’ll admit, I left with far more bee knowledge than I expected when I arrived that evening!
But beekeeping is only one chapter of Zane’s story.
He’s also someone who quietly serves the people around him. He volunteers at the library, helps care for the family’s chickens, and regularly brings fresh eggs to his teachers as a simple way of saying thank you. Those small acts of kindness speak just as loudly as any award or accomplishment. They reveal a young man who enjoys learning, serving others, and sharing what he has.
The evening couldn’t have been more perfect. It was one of those quintessential Iowa summer nights with comfortable temperatures, golden light, and just enough breeze to make wearing a bee suit surprisingly pleasant! We moved from the library to the chicken coop, photographed the bee hives, and even included a few family portraits along the way. Every stop reflected another piece of who Zane is today.
That’s what I love most about personalized senior pictures. Whether a senior brings a musical instrument, a robotics project, athletic gear, a beloved pet, or—in Zane’s case—a thriving bee colony, those personal touches create images that are meaningful long after graduation. They become a celebration of who someone is in this season of life and the interests that helped shape them.
Zane, thank you for giving me a glimpse into your world—and for trusting me enough to hand me a bee suit! Congratulations on all you’ve accomplished, from the concert stage to the bee yard, the library, and beyond. I know your curiosity, generosity, and steady spirit will serve you well wherever life takes you next.
