Mom had requested a “natural” theme for her session and Dad is an active member of the US Army. I always have a vision of where I want the session to go, but sometimes so do the parents, so it’s a real song and dance to incorporate creativity and sentimental value into every session. Newborns are only “new” for a few short days, making these memories priceless.

Military families always make me contemplate how different my life would be if my husband had been in the armed forces. Precious newborns such as this one are what these dedicated men (and women) leave behind. Some watch births over the internet and meet their children face-to-face after a few months have passed. Can you imagine? When I think of all the sacrifices these men and women make, the sacrifice of family seems monumental.

When I shoot a Senior Session, I’m visualizing a Display Book featuring that senior. I see the chosen outfits laid out in my mind like a catalog. And when the moment comes, and we get that great close up shot, I’m seeing the Display Book cover in my mind’s eye, with their name in a fancy font, with a glossy coating and I can hear their friends saying how awesome it looks.

I think all visual artist are like that. We tend to see the final product long before it takes shape in real life. It’s like the difference between dreaming in black and white and dreaming in color. Sure I can buy the same ingredients at the grocery store as the gourmet chef, but I haven’t a clue how to get from package to product with the skill, ease, and vision of a real chef. Give me a camera and a little light, and that’s something I can work with. Going from pretty picture to wall art. It’s all in the vision of the camera holder.

Meet Kayla Bridgers, Senior Model Representative for the class of 2011. We completed most of her session at the beautiful LuMil Vineyard. She’s one of those people that you instantly like. It really shows through in her senior portraits. She’s a little silly, reserved, relaxed, and has a great attitude. All of that wrapped up in a girl that doesn’t seem to know exactly how beautiful she really is. That’s my favorite kind of beautiful. One that’s natural and kind, and shines the best when it comes from the inside out. Some of the favorites are below the video.

Before you play this video, please turn of the website music by clicking on the small note in the top left hand corner of the blog. Videos here always include their own music. And my wonderful Senior Model Reps take a copy home for free!