Sara's Graduation

I honestly can't believe I'm writing this post. Somehow, my baby niece is graduating high school. She’ll be turning 18 later this week, and I swear it feels like just yesterday I was holding her in my arms during my own graduation photos. She was a tiny toddler then — full of giggles, chubby cheeks, and that sweet baby smell — and now she's grown into this stunning, smart, funny, and strong young woman. Cue all the emotions.

This session was such a full-circle moment for me. Being able to photograph her senior portraits wasn’t just special — it was surreal. I kept flashing back to the day she was born during my sophomore year of high school. I remember the rush of excitement getting the call that she had arrived, and the moment I first held her in my arms. She’s the first baby I ever truly loved like that — fiercely, protectively, unconditionally.

Watching her walk confidently in front of my camera, with her cap and gown draped over her arm and her eyes set on the future, just about broke me in the best way. I couldn’t stop smiling behind the lens (and tearing up a little too — let’s be honest).

To my sweet niece — I am so proud of you. Watching you grow up has been one of the greatest joys of my life. You’ve made our whole family proud with the person you are and the heart you carry. High school may be ending, but your story is just beginning. And I’ll be cheering you on every step of the way — camera in hand, heart wide open.

Love you always.