Maryann was one of the more influential mentors I had when I first starting teaching. I can recall the countless conversations in her classroom. I’d sit on desks with my coffee and we’d chat about anything and everything from lesson plans, to babies, to the ‘can I really do this for the rest of my life’ career oriented conversations. She always encouraged me and was one of the biggest cheerleaders I had met in my creative teaching career.

When Maryann contacted me about doing senior photos for her niece, Kiki I couldn’t have been more honored. Maryann has talked to me about her for years now, so much so that I feel as though I have known her myself. On a cold day in November, Maryann, Kiki, her mother, and her father all came by for her session. I had set up in my home to create a relaxed atmosphere, complete with my favorite pieces of furniture. What was even more special is that they brought me my favorite coffee: Dunkin’ Donuts Peppermint Mocha! Already I knew this session was going to be great!

Here are my favorites from the day!

Photographing Kiki as well as my other seniors this year has made me realize just how much I really love my studio work. I just love the classic, clean look you can create against a simple backdrop. Although I love photographing outdoors and always will, with studio work I adore that you can encourage the viewer to focus on the subject rather than the space they’ve been photographed in. For Kiki, she is beautiful all on her own, and for me, these images pay tribute to her timelessness.

I wish you all the best your senior year Kiki! I see wonderful and exciting things in your future! A BIG thank you to you, your family, and to my dear friend Maryann for asking me to take your portrait! I had such a great time! xoxo 🙂