When I started photography, I was 23—barely older than the seniors I was photographing. Back then, I remember thinking, “I’m basically old enough to be their big sister.”

Now? I’m in my 40s. I’m old enough to be their mom.
And with that shift, the meaning behind every session runs deeper.

I still see the excitement in each senior’s eyes—ready to finish strong and launch into the unknown.
But now, I also notice the parents behind them: holding jackets, clutching my beloved “cloud” (reflector), blinking back tears behind a phone camera. Quiet. Proud. Present.

This post isn’t just about portraits—it’s about the emotion beneath them.
And it’s also the official intro to something new I now offer: VIP Micro Sessions for families who’ve already trusted me with their big moments.

A Rainy Day, Two Graduates, and One Brave Mama

These two brothers are graduating—one from high school, one from college.
Their mom reached out needing just one great photo for announcements. Not a full session. Not the whole family. Just something clean and polished.

They’ve booked me twice before, including a senior session, and I love taking care of my people.
So I said, “How about a micro session?”

We met close to my home on a rainy spring day—the kind where the sky keeps changing its mind. Yep, it rained. The boys were easygoing, unfazed. And honestly? I didn’t ask, but I wouldn’t be surprised if their mom let a tear slip—because when it’s already raining, no one notices.

In under 10 minutes, we had several options.
Now I’m asking you: which one would you choose for their joint graduation announcement?

Introducing: VIP Micro Sessions

Short, intentional sessions for returning clients who just need one updated image.

Perfect for:

• 🎓 Cap & gown portraits (text me when the gown arrives!)
• 📰 Newspaper features or award announcements
• 💼 Updated headshots for LinkedIn, internships, or tryouts
• 📣 Grad announcements (because most seniors change their hair at least once a year)

This isn’t a replacement for a full session.
It’s a thoughtful follow-up—ideal for a moment that matters, without the full production.

Offered quietly, by request only, VIP Micro Sessions include:

• A 10-minute photo session
• 1–2 people (who were in your last session)
• For past family or senior clients within the last 365 days
• Held near my home in Greeley, Colorado
• 1 retouched image with print rights (with upgrade options available)

The Emotions Behind Graduation Photos

A wise client once told me:
“After my kids left for college, I started going to Costco more than I needed to—just to walk through the Christmas section. It makes me feel like they’re coming home soon even though Christmas was two months away.”

Beautiful.
Brilliant.
And heartbreaking.

Graduation is a celebration, yes.
But behind every cap and gown is a parent who’s quietly been holding it all together—packing lunches, driving to practices, proofreading essays, and praying.

These photos?
They honor both of you.

And if a tear sneaks out in the rain?
I’ll pretend not to notice.

🤍✨📷
Heather