Why the Glitter? My Sparkling Journey with Senior Photography

Have you ever wondered why I, Ashley Smith, has chosen glitter as a signature element in my senior portrait sessions over the past four years? If you’ve been following my work, you’ve probably noticed the dazzling glimmers and sparkling smiles that adorn my portfolio. But why the glitter, you ask? Well, it’s more than just a shiny accessory—it’s a symbol of self-discovery, celebration, and the vibrant journey of life.

I’ve always believed in capturing the essence of a senior’s transition into a new phase of life. It’s about celebrating their achievements and dreams while also acknowledging their growth, resilience, and the beauty that comes with embracing change. That’s where the glitter comes into play.

“I love letting my seniors blow glitter because it symbolizes a beautiful journey of self-discovery and celebration of life,” I say with a sparkle in my eye. “As they release the glitter into the air, it’s as if they are letting go of the past, embracing the present, and sending their wishes for the future into the universe.”

Picture this: A radiant senior stands poised, bathed in the warm hues of a golden sunset, clutching a jar filled with shimmering glitter. With every exhale, they release a whirlwind of sparkling magic into the world. The glitter dances and twinkles in the air, reflecting the setting sun’s warm embrace. It’s a moment of pure, unadulterated joy, caught through my lens.

hopes and dreams for what lies ahead

But this act of blowing glitter is more than just a photo opportunity—it’s a profound metaphor for the seniors’ transition into a new phase of life. It represents their willingness to let go of the innocence of childhood, savor the moments of today, and express their hopes and dreams for what lies ahead.

The glitter symbolizes the past—the experiences, memories, and challenges that have shaped them. As it drifts away on the breeze, it signifies a letting go—a conscious choice to release the weight of yesteryears. In that brief, glitter-filled moment, they symbolically shed their cocoon of adolescence and prepare to emerge as the beautiful butterflies they are becoming.

As the glitter falls gracefully to the ground, it settles like stardust

I capture the essence of this moment in each photograph—the sheer delight on the seniors’ faces, the wonder in their eyes, and the freedom in their hearts. It’s a joyful and liberating experience that encapsulates the essence of their remarkable life stories and the promise of what’s yet to come.

As the glitter falls gracefully to the ground, it settles like stardust, leaving a trail of wishes and dreams in its wake. Those wishes, encapsulated in every tiny shimmering speck, become a testament to the seniors’ hopes and aspirations. Each glittering particle represents a step toward the future, a promise to seize every opportunity, and a commitment to living life to the fullest.

it’s about the journey, the celebration

In the end, the glitter is not just a decorative element in my sessions—it’s a symbol of transformation, growth, and the boundless possibilities that await each senior. It’s a celebration of the past, a proclamation of the present, and a radiant beacon of hope for the future.

So, the next time you see one of my photographs, and a cascade of glitter is caught in mid-air, remember that it’s not just about the sparkle—it’s about the journey, the celebration, and the beauty of life’s ever-evolving story. It’s a reminder that we should all embrace change with open hearts, let go of the past, and keep our dreams alive, just like the seniors in my sparkling world.

xo-

Ashley | Senior Portrait Photographer