More Than Just Raleigh Senior Portraits – Why I Do What I Do
Senior year is such a special and emotional time. It’s a season of transition, of excitement, of looking ahead to the future—while also holding on tightly to the moments that are slipping by too quickly. For me, senior photography isn’t just about taking pictures. It’s about celebrating each teen for who they are, helping them feel confident and beautiful, and supporting both them and their moms through this bittersweet milestone. Read more to learn the Why behind my Raleigh Senior Photographer business.
A Calling Rooted in My Own Story
My passion for working with teens runs deep. Growing up, my childhood and teenage years were incredibly difficult—filled with challenges that no child should have to face. These are things that I do not like to talk about, personal things that happened that do not need to be shared with the world. But as painful as those years were, I now see the purpose in them. They gave me a heart for teens, especially those who may be struggling, doubting their worth, or feeling unseen. I have been there I know what it is like!
I want to be the person I once needed at that age. Someone who reminds teens how special and beautiful they are, who builds them up instead of tearing them down. I know that one negative comment can stay with a teen for years, shaping how they see themselves. But I also know that one moment of encouragement can be just as powerful.
That’s what I hope to create during every session.
An experience that helps teens see themselves through a lens of confidence, beauty, and worth. I did have a couple of those people in my life. However I didn’t share the pain with them until later because I was so scared. I want to not only build up confidence but to also provide a safe space for these teens. My clients become family to me, and I consider all of the teens my kids. I love on them, cry with them, cheer with them and all the things between.
I truly feel as I have a calling and a purpose to work with teens. So I have created my business around this purpose.
I never want to step on any parent’s toes, but I do want to be another positive role model for the teens I work with. If a teen needs someone to talk to, if they’re struggling with confidence, or if they just need to feel seen, I want them to know that I’m here.
A Mom Who Understands This Season
The other part of my passion comes from where I am in life right now. As a mom of two young adults, I’m walking through the empty nest stage, and I know exactly what these moms are feeling. My kids are off at college, and while I’m so proud of them, I also find myself holding on tightly to the memories of their high school years.
And do you know what means the most to me now? The photos.
The images of their high school years, the little moments we captured along the way—they are everything to me. They bring me back to the laughter, the milestones, the moments that felt so ordinary at the time but are now priceless treasures. I know how much these photos will mean down the road, and that’s why I pour my heart into every session.
Creating More Than Just Photos—An Raleigh Senior Experience That Matters
When I work with a senior, I don’t just show up with a camera and take pictures. I take time to get to know them. What makes them excited? What are their passions? What unique elements can we bring into their session that truly reflect who they are?
I recently had a senior session on a family farm, where we incorporated her grandfather’s tractor, his firefighter helmet, and even took pictures with the cows. That session wasn’t just about creating beautiful images—it was about capturing the heart of who she is, her roots, and what matters most to her. That’s what I want to do for every single senior.
I want to create images that are more than just photos. I want them to be heirloom treasures, timeless reminders of this incredible season of life. I want every senior to walk away from their session feeling confident, beautiful, and celebrated. And I want every mom to have images that she will hold onto forever.
Let’s Celebrate This Chapter Together
If you’re a mom navigating this season, I see you. I know the mix of emotions, the pride, the joy, the bittersweet moments. And if you’re a senior, I want you to know that you are so special, so beautiful, and so worthy of being celebrated.
I’d love to create an experience that captures this chapter for you. If you’re ready to plan a session that is uniquely you, let’s chat—I can’t wait to celebrate you!
