{Ryan} Woodbury, MN Senior Portrait Photographer

A preview of Ryan, Woodbury High School Class of 2011. One of the most polite, easy going and creative young men I have had the pleasure of photographing. It was a great morning spent exploring the grounds of Como and recording this important time in his life. Best wishes as you embark on this exiting time of new discoveries and change!

{Logan} Plymouth, MN Senior Portrait Photographer

“As for the future, your task is not to foresee it, but to enable it.”

Antoine de Saint-Exupery

A preview of a recent senior session. I had a great time spending the afternoon with Logan and her family as she prepared for the beginning of her senior year at Wayzata High School. She carries with her grace and beauty that shines from the inside, out. There is no doubt that this year will hold special memories and that her future is as bright and hopeful as her fantastic smile and spirit.

{clue} Twin Cities Senior Portrait Photographer

“The final mystery is oneself.” Oscar Wilde

If last year I mostly spent my time doing senior portrait sessions with females it would be the reverse this year. Most of my clients of been young men. I have to admit it has been a different experience for me but wonderful all the same. As a former senior girl myself, I had a sense, even though it was a bit ago when I was a senior gal, what to expect because...well, I was one and just knew how important I thought these pictures are. Well, here comes the season of...men I call it. I end up having senior boys. Which are mysteries to me much like my young 3 year old boy and husband are...only because I have never been one. Each session has been mystery unveiled. Andrew came to my studio with his mom so pleasant and polite, with manners and respect that blew me away. As we grew past the awkwardness of the first few moments, I felt like I was hanging out with a really cool young man and his mom that I knew since he was writing his first sentences in cursive. As a mom to a boy, I loved watching their interaction. They chatted back and forth so comfortably and with such love that I felt just only a the surface of the bond that began 17 or so years ago...{insert tear}.
I dig my job. Such a mystery. Each character...er....client and such inspiration.

Congratulations to Andrew Alvarez. Woodbury High School Class of 2010. May your senior year be one of mystery unveiled and yet to be explored...

{Rhythm} Twin Cities Senior Photographer

"One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain." ~ Bob Marley

The first words out of this young man's mouth were "let's keep it simple." Senior portraits for boys always are interesting sessions. Yes, they are simple but also complex. Joe was quiet, reserved and just ready to get these photographs over with and go home. As the session simply rolled along I got to understand the complexity and dynamic artist this guy is becoming. Joe is a drummer and plays in a band. When he discussed music it was all about soul and rhythm. I could just tell how much he connected and expressed himself through his music and drums by the way he spoke about other artists, music and his instrument. He was eloquent, thoughtful and introspective. I admire at such a young age, instead of playing Guitar Hero like most of many teens his age (please note I have nothing against GH), he has the dedication and passion for his music to go out and do the real thing. This is truly inspiring as a fellow artist and lover of music.
Here is a preview for Joe. Woodbury High School Class of 2010. Keep on rocking and rolling because I have a feeling I'll be hearing more about you...maybe someday over the radio.

{spirit, service, leadership} Twin Cities Senior Portrait Photographer

"The Boy Scouts of America stands for a set of principles. These principles have a lot of staying power. The values you learn as a Scout are like a compass. They can help you find your way through difficult and sometimes uncharted terrain. The principles of Scouting give you a sense of what's important."
-Bill Bradley

As a former educator, I really enjoy photographing senior portraits. I spent my years in a middle school and forget that these tweens who struggle through some pretty tough adolescent turmoil grow into wise, adventurous, mature and honorable young adults. I had the enjoyment of photographing Travis's senior portraits out in beautiful Lake Elmo. It was a new location for me (I love that part of me job. Always new places to go) and the day was simply beautiful along with the scenery. I was struck by how gentle, genuine and easy going Travis was during the shoot. He was polite and eager to help me locate sources of good light. Both of his wonderful parents were along and the relationship and respect they all have for each other was my delight to witness for those few hours. Travis is an Eagle Scout. Before learning more from Travis and his dad, I had only a slight idea of what work went into this honor. After our shoot I am in true awe of what dedication, leadership, service and spirit this young man has. The position took years to earn. Amazing! What perseverance and hard work it took him. I looked over his colorful sash garnished with badges imagining each one not only stood for a project or service but also a picture of life captured over time His story throughout the years of his life. Each one representing years of dedication, hard work and leadership from him and his family.
To Travis, I wish you the best during your final year of high school and have to say , I am very excited to see what incredible plans await you.

{stepping up} Twin Cities Senior Portrait Photographer

“For tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today” African Proverb

A preview for Miss Natalia who I had a relaxing and fun filled session spending a couple of hours as we photographed her senior portraits. Entering her final year of high school, this young lady clearly has a bright future as we chatted about family, friends, hockey and a possible career in the Veterinary Science field. One thing was for certain, she was a true original and wonderfully creative. A perfect combination for my style of photography. It was magical to watch how natural she was in front of the camera which radiates from her true authentic and beautiful personality. Good luck with the exciting year ahead and for the future and the many place you are sure to go!