Cecilia strode into her senior session with a gentle smile, and loads of confidence. Oh, I wish I could have had that kind of confidence in high school! This sweet girl also had a sentimental heart that made all the little details of our time together feel extra meaningful. I noticed the delicate necklace she had around he neck, and she shared that it had belonged to her grandmother. More than just jewelry, it was a connection to someone she loved, and it set the tone for our entire session in the city. Her mom had told me beforehand, “Cecilia has such a kind soul…she always sees the good in everyone.” And over my time of getting to know this beautiful soul, I knew her mom was right.
This adorable girl isn’t new to me, since I had the privilege to photograph her older sister a few years ago. I secretly hoped I’d get to do more senior photos for their amazing family, and it’s always the highest compliment when I get ‘legacy families’, who allow me to document this season of life more than once. Cecilia, much like her older sister, is hard-working and driven, and a very nurturing spirit. Her mom shared that she loves children and is generally the ‘mom’ of her friend group! Thoughtful seemed to be the word that came up the most when speaking to her family; they all love how detail-oriented this senior is. One of my favorite things about Cecilia? Her love for bows. She incorporated them into her looks in the sweetest way, and honestly, they fit her so well. It was clear that Cecilia didn’t just throw outfits together; she put care into every piece, making sure it reflected her personal style and sentimental nature.
When we were considering where to do her session, I wanted to be sure it was somewhere that felt authentic to her big-city personality and chic style. So, when she chimed in that Gossip Girl was her favorite show, I knew just where to go to give her that real Blair Waldorf moment (peep the headband and dress combo below!). This 2025 grad was thoughtful about every decision, making sure it reflected her style while also capturing a part of who she is. I could see her light up as we moved from spot to spot, each location bringing out a different side of her. Whether she was posing in a classic, elegant outfit or something more playful and fun, she made the entire experience feel just like her: joyful.
Beyond the fashion and location, Cecilia truly lit up when we moved into the dance portion. When we incorporated movement into her session, something shifted. She completely came alive. Confidence, grace, the way she moved with ease; it made my heart so happy. She is incredibly talented and I could have watched her hit these gorgeous lines all day.
As much as she loves dance, Cecilia’s true passion lies in working with kids. She has dreams of becoming a speech pathologist in the NICU, and her heart for helping others is something her mom is incredibly proud of. “She loves being involved,” she told me. “She’s so passionate about Interact, the community service club.” Cecilia has this quiet but powerful kindness about her, the kind that makes you believe she’s going to change lives. By the end of our session, I found myself just as inspired by Cecilia as her mother. “My dream for her is to follow her passion and help as many children as she can,” her mom shared with a smile. “I just want her to always stay true to herself.” And truly, I don’t see that being a challenge for Cecilia. She’s sensitive, kind, and hardworking, exactly the kind of young woman who makes the world better just by being in it. It was such an honor to capture her senior session, and I have no doubt she’s destined to do amazing things.
