One of the greatest gifts of living and working in a close-knit community is watching students grow up through so many different seasons of life.
Piper’s senior session was one of those evenings that felt especially meaningful because I’ve had the privilege of watching her story unfold for years. I first met her as a sixth-grade band student, and over the years I’ve also had the joy of teaching alongside her mom, Katie. Somewhere along the way, she stopped feeling like just a coworker and became one of my “work sisters”—someone who has walked beside me through some of the hardest seasons of my life and career.
So when it came time to photograph Piper’s senior pictures, it felt a little like photographing family.
One of my favorite parts of senior sessions is getting to celebrate not only what a student has accomplished, but also who they’re becoming. Piper has grown into a thoughtful, compassionate, and hardworking young woman with plans to study Physical Therapy at a local college close to home.
She’s a leader on her high school campus, helping lead Bible study and investing in the lives of her classmates. She’s found a second family through marching band—not just because she loves music, but because she treasures the sense of community and belonging that comes with being part of the band family. She’s also a talented thrower, competing in shot put and discus and finishing just shy of qualifying for the State Track & Field this year. While I know missing that mark was disappointing, I also know it doesn’t define the incredible athlete and person she has become. (Also, she’s only missed ONE summer lifting day in her entire high school career – talk about dedication!)
I’ve watched Piper work with children during swim lessons—including my own kids—and her patience, encouragement, and genuine care for others are evident in everything she does. The qualities that make someone a wonderful swim instructor are the same qualities that will one day make an exceptional physical therapist. I have no doubt she’ll make a lasting difference in the lives of the people she serves.
As we planned her senior session, the goal wasn’t simply to create beautiful portraits. It was to celebrate this exciting season of life and preserve memories that reflect who Piper is right now. That’s what I love most about personalized senior pictures. They’re more than yearbook photos—they tell the story of a student’s interests, personality, and the people who have helped shape them along the way.
Sessions like Piper’s remind me why I love both teaching and photography. Every once in a while, those two worlds overlap in the sweetest ways. I have the privilege of watching students grow into remarkable young adults and then celebrating one of life’s biggest milestones right alongside them.
Piper, congratulations on your senior year! It has been such a joy watching you grow into the incredible young woman you are today. I know you’ll bring your compassion, servant’s heart, and steady encouragement into every room you enter, and I can’t wait to see all that you’ll accomplish!
