Do I do graduation/senior portraits?

Yes and no.

Every year I do a small number of these special senior or graduation shoots even though I don’t consider myself a high school senior photographer. There are always a few special requests that come up that I just couldn’t “not do.” I fit them in and I always walk away feeling so fulfilled.

Generally speaking I photograph these sessions for family and friends only and give referrals for the rest of the requests that come through our inbox. Even though JoVaughn isn’t exactly family, when she asked about graduation photos for her oldest son, Jaiden, I knew instantly that I wanted to shoot this session for them. You see, JoVaughn is a special woman that my kids and I adore. She has taught both Finn and Rita in preschool and not only is she a joy to know as an adult, she has this way of understanding young minds unlike anyone else I have ever met. She is understanding and gentle and never holds back on the hugs and pet names that kids respond to so well. I swear she has never ending patience.

The thing I love the most though is the way she gently teaches emotions, diversity and self love along with all the “normal” academics. While many people would greet Rita in her pink tutu dress with hair braided pinned back with matching pink hair clips saying “Look how pretty you look!” JoVaughn is more likely to say something more like “Hi Baby Cakes! I love your dress. You look so smart and strong today!” And, these shifts from the norm are exactly what our kids need in these days of growth.

So, when she asked if I photographed seniors since her oldest son is graduating this year, I answered her with an emphatic YES! — Mostly because I wanted to meet her kids! I mean, how DO kids turn out that are brought up with that level of open mindedness?

Well, in true JoVaughn fashion, she brought along the entire crew for Jaiden’s session so I got to meet almost all of her people…and they did not disappoint. None of the boys shied away from my huge hug and not only was Jaiden a joy to work with, he was more than willing to listen to my ramblings about photography and plans for vacation this year and gushed about how amazing his mom is…even though I already know. I’m positive he is turning out to be as special as his momma.

Jaiden’s current plans for the future are focused on the nearer future with his grandma in Seattle battling cancer as the family travels back and forth caring for her. Though things are a bit uncertain at this time, he opened up that with his creative mind, he is considering getting into photography! With his peoples skills, he would be great at it and I can’t wait to watch him blossom.

Jaiden, thank you for being so great to work with. There aren’t many boys your age that are as willing to do “all the things” for a photo session like you and I really appreciated your enthusiasm. I hope you love this little sample of photos from your shoot on Sunday. And, because I know how hard it is to wait, there will be a surprise in your mom’s inbox later today so don’t forget to pester her about it….I’m sure she won’t mind!

XO - Megan