On a whim, my daughter Bella and I decided to seize the moment and head to Manhattan, Kansas, for an evening photo shoot in the heart of the Konza Prairie, our first hometown together as a family. Yes, we are literally crazy and spontaneous, but that’s how we work best I guess- ha! Planning photo sessions, and life in general, can be challenging with weather, health, circumstances, energy levels, etc., so we said, “let’s do it!” We grabbed some Starbucks (BAD idea at 4:00 in the afternoon🤦🏼‍♀️) and headed west. 

One thing she kept telling me is that she wants her senior photos to be “like a movie”. The idea of photos being “like a movie” is a beautiful thing, and is basically what journalistic photography is– it documents life experiences, feelings, thoughts, actions, emotions, proof of existence, and most importantly your story. It is raw, if you let it be. With today’s hyper-focus on being photoshopped and “perfect”, it is quite hard to feel adequate or up to society’s standards, especially as a young person. But please don’t stoop to society’s level. One, because it’s not real and two, because it’s not you, and that’s what photography should be, the authentic you. Authentic life experiences. Recently, I saw an Instagram post about how photography is personal. So true! In order to get good photos you have to invest in and know what you are photographing! In other words, you have to CARE about what you are photographing. You have to care about the story you are telling with these photographs.  

I simply can’t believe my daughter is turning eighteen in August and headed into her senior year. While I am sad, I’m also so excited for her and for me. We reap what we sow. 

Bella, you are a light in this world! You inspire me, strengthen me, and make me feel so proud as a mom. So thankful for our relationship and love. You will soar … 🦅

This special memory will always be with me and I hope with you. ❤️

~ Mom