From a Raleigh Senior Photographer & Empty-Nest Mama Who Gets It
Dear Senior Mom,
In just a couple of weeks, school will start — and if you’re anything like me, your heart is already bracing for impact.
Whether this is your first senior or your last, I want you to know: I see you. I’ve felt what you’re feeling. And I’ve been exactly where you are.
As a mom of two young adults, I’ve been through senior year twice. We’ve packed dorm rooms, moved into college apartments, and said those tearful, gut-wrenching goodbyes. And in just a few weeks, we’ll be doing it all over again with our youngest.
Let me tell you the truth:
It has been HARD. Every. Single. Time.
It didn’t matter if it was my oldest or youngest, or if it was the first time or the third — every time they spread their wings, it hurts.
We’ve spent years preparing them to be independent, strong, and ready to soar. But no one warns us how deeply it will pull at our hearts when they finally do.
That’s why I’m writing today. This season is filled with “last firsts” — the last first day, last homecoming, last senior prom — moments heavy with meaning, ones that deserve to be truly savored, not rushed through.
So here’s my advice, from one mom to another:
Soak it all in. And capture it.
More than photos — memories made tangible.
Freeze time however you can — not just for your teen, but for you, too.
One of the biggest gifts I can give my clients as a Raleigh senior photographer is the ability to pause this fleeting moment and hold onto it forever. Not just with digital images that live on your phone, but with tangible keepsakes — crisp, clear heirloom albums and wall portraits that bring their senior year back to life every time you walk by them.
When your child is away at college, in their apartment, or years from now planning their own wedding… you’ll still have that photo of their 17-year-old smile. That sparkle in their eye. That expression that feels like home.
These portraits aren’t just about looking pretty in a field. They’re about remembering who they were at this exact moment in time — the joy, the nerves, the excitement, the growth.
Senior Destination Photographer
And mama, if your senior has a vision for their dream session — a sunflower field, a trip to the beach, a destination location that feels so them — and it’s within your reach… say yes. Even if you have to plan ahead or save for it, it’s worth it.
Allow their joy. Celebrate their moment. Help them feel seen.
And if that dream session means you need a destination senior photographer who will jump in the car (or on a plane) to make it happen? Then find that photographer. Because trust me — the only regret you’ll have is not doing it.
Whether you’re here in the Triangle looking for high school portraits in Raleigh, or you’re dreaming of a session somewhere breathtaking across North Carolina or beyond — I’m here for it. I believe in capturing real moments, real joy, and real connection. And I believe that senior portraits should be just as special as the teen in front of my camera.
This season might be hard — but you don’t have to go through it alone. And one day, when the house is quiet and your heart needs a little reminder, you’ll be so grateful you took the time to freeze this chapter.
You’ve got this, mama. And I’m cheering for you every step of the way.
With love,
Jenn McKinney
Your Raleigh Senior Photographer & Fellow Senior Mom 💛
Looking for a photographer who understands the heart behind senior portraits? Whether you’re local or planning something more adventurous, I’d love to help bring your vision to life. Reach out to learn more about my availability for the Class of 2026.
Raleigh Senior Portraits: Behind the Scenes with a Twist
