I've known Graham's family for a very long time! His mom cuts both my and my husband's hair and she is a huge fan of the cookies my husband bakes every Christmas--ha. Two years ago, I took his beautiful older sister, Audrey's, senior pics (one of my favorite sessions ever) and thought it would be a hard session to match! But, by golly, this session was extra special and had the "wow" factor as well. The lighting was different, which created a different mood to the pics, but both sessions were a chef's kiss. Or rather I should say photographer's kiss:) Photogenic genes must run in this family!

We began the session downtown. I have a basic plan in mind when I am shooting, but am also open to suggestions, so when his mom mentioned she noticed the red painted brick wall and asked for some shots there, I was happy to comply. I love, love, love how those turned out! She also had forwarded an inspiration cropped close-up before the session--I tried my best to shoot something similar and it turned out spectacular. I may have to add that pose to my rotation! Graham was a handsome subject indeed. Serious expressions showing off his chiseled looks and smiley ones his affable, polite nature! Since we were doing a split location, we didn't have a lot of time downtown, but I was able to hit up some tried and true spots and new ones as well and we got a nice variety--especially since he brought a sharp looking white jacket that he could easily slip on and off. It was the perfect choice for creating both dressier and casual vibes without a full outfit change. So a word of advice--senior boy moms bring your sons a spiffy jacket!

Before long it was time to go to our second location--one that I was very excited about. Graham loves to fish and a family friend has been letting him fish at a private and picturesque large pond in the country. It was where he caught his very first fish when he was little! I love the challenge of new locations and was more than game to see what this new location would bring. And bring it did! It was a fabulous spot and I could tell Graham was in his comfort zone in the place that had brought him so much joy and memories. It was quiet and peaceful and beautiful. When we arrived the sun was still very strong, but there was some shade near the front of the pond so we started there--the sun still breaking through in spots, but softened light on his face. We started with an overturned green canoe, which offered the perfect place to sit! The bright sun shining on the opposite side of the lake created a glowy golden backdrop on the trees, a scene mirrored on the water. Then we moved to his favorite fishing spot at the side of the pond and had to take a few with Graham's beloved fishing pole! I brought a stool and we took a few more on that side of the pond where the sun created fiery highlights on a large tree. After, we moved on to a red outbuilding for a change of pace, before going to the far side of the pond. Finally, we went back to the front of the pond where there was now soft, even light and we did not have to worry about squinting or shadows. I had so much fun playing with an overturned bright blue row boat, multi-colored kayak, and yellow paddles. And so pleased I was able to capture the reflections on the still water--not as bright as earlier when the sun was fierce, but the calm and soft greens of the trees created a muted mural in the water. Graham's white shorts along with a dressy button down shirt, hoodie, and red cap were great compliments and gave the perfect "lake life" feeling to the shoot. I just hope those white shorts came clean after sitting on the ground and the boats! I told his mom later the property was like a photographer's playground. Really had a ball shooting there. And loved spending time with Graham in one of his favorite places!

Besides fishing, Graham enjoys spending time in nature, socializing with friends, gaming, woodworking, cooking, and listening to music. He has a great voice and sings all the time. Graham is also a member of EAA and volunteers his time at Young Eagles events. He is employed at Mariola Italian and helps with catering there. So quite the busy guy! Future plans for college are an Aviation degree and flight school. I can easily see Graham in a pilots outfit and cap one day--talk about dashing!

Have a great senior year, Graham! And tell your younger sister, Paige, I'm excited to have her in my viewfinder next! 

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