In an instant everything – changed
So, my dad has up to an 8th-grade education. That didn’t stop him from being a successful business owner and horse trader. My mom never attended college but graduated from Dorman High School Class of 1986. The year I was born. Fast forward 17 years, I graduated from high school, from Chapman High School. No senior portraits were hanging in our house, and my mom didn’t even buy the basic ones the school did. Well, off to college I went. I wanted to be an X-ray tech, but I quit to go to work. I had no help or encouragement to continue….
Fast forward to 2015, I decided after eight years of being a stay-at-home mom that it was time to find something of my own. I went back to college while working part-time and raising my children. That year in college, I discovered my passion while taking a photography class. I was good at photography, and I wanted to pursue it further. I had the encouragement I needed to pursue my passion for photography from my husband and my instructor.
In 2017, I finally graduated from college with a whole associate degree. I was finally a graphic designer. My kids watched as their mother walked across the stage to receive that degree. That moment I will never forget. That year just so happened my daughter was also graduating Kindergarten. I knew I had to document this. We had pictures taken together to demonstrate our accomplishments. When I received the photos back, instantly everything changed for me. I knew at that moment how important this time was, not only for me but for my daughter as well. One of my most profound realizations was that I had the perspective of being the graduate and the mother simultaneously. My journey as a graduate and a mother also intertwined to create a personal legacy that would shape my child’s perception of success, resilience, and dedication. I honored my accomplishments and showcased the importance of celebrating milestones and preserving memories to my children. These images will be an everlasting reminder of the sacrifices made, the dreams pursued, and the incredible love that has guided our journey. I cherish that photo of my daughter and me in our cap and gown and enjoy looking at it as it sits on my desk.
During that season of life, I was incredibly proud of myself and who I was becoming. I had done something neither of my parents had done. Being a graduate and a mother simultaneously was an emotional and exhilarating experience. For many different reasons, this time is so significant to many others, and as I live my dreams of photographing seniors, I bring that pride I had in myself to my senior sessions. So, dear reader, I implore you to book a fall + spring senior session. Embrace the emotions, celebrate the milestones, and forever cherish the legacy you are creating.
I want you to feel gorgeous, empowered, important, accomplished, and proud!
Are you ready to capture your unique senior journey and create a lasting legacy? Book your fall + spring senior session now and embrace the emotions, celebrate your milestones, and forever cherish the incredible legacy you are creating. It’s time to feel gorgeous, empowered, important, accomplished, and proud! Contact me today to schedule your unforgettable senior portrait experience.
XO, Ashley
