Adaptability is the simple secret of survival, and in its flexibility lies a unique kind of beauty.
-J. Hagedorn
There’s one consistent trait that I see when I photograph the stunning dancers I get to work with; dedication. These dancers endure not just long hours of training at what they love most, but also the disappointments and wins that come with a competitive sport. That’s what truly makes them standout humans…their ability to bounce back and push through, and to become someone they are proud of. Sophia impressed me from the moment we met, and my admiration of her continued to grow. Her senior session turned out to be a perfect reflection of who she is: graceful, determined, and completely unshaken when obstacles come her way. The wind that day in Philly? Well, it was was intense, throwing our original rooftop plans right out the window. But Sophia? She didn’t even flinch. Instead of getting frustrated, she adapted with a smile, just like she’s done countless times as a dedicated dancer. That’s really the best part about dancers: they know how to move with whatever comes their way, and Sophia did exactly that. She let the wind become part of the story, turning each gust into something beautiful rather than a challenge.
When I asked her what she loved most about the session (one of my favorite ways to reflect back on a session), she told me it was the little surprises that made it meaningful. The rooftop may not have worked out, but she embraced the shift, and we found an even better spot. That ability to roll with the moment, to make the best of whatever happens, is something that will take her far in this life. Her perspective on spontaneity made this shoot feel more like an adventure than a structured plan, and sometimes, those are always my favorite kinds of sessions. Besides being adaptable and dedicated, Sophia is also a terrific young woman with big-picture ambitions. After graduation from Washington Township High School, she plans to attend a four-year college and pursue forensic sciences, with the ultimate goal of working for the FBI. It’s not an easy path, and she is sure she’s ready for what’s ahead. There’s a quiet intensity to her, a focus that’s easy to see even when she’s laughing in front of the camera.
I also asked her to describe her session in one word, and she chose stylized. She told me it represented everything about her, her personality, her energy, her vibe. It was a chance to step outside of her comfort zone and see herself in a new way. She said she had never felt more beautiful, not just because of the photos, but because she was seeing herself from a different perspective. That kind of self-discovery is what makes senior sessions so close to my heart.
Her mom was there, soaking in every second of it. She’s her biggest cheerleader, and told me her favorite part was watching her incredible daughter express herself through each pose, shifting effortlessly between emotions and styles. As a dancer, movement is second nature to her, and that artistry shined through in every shot. Whether it’s in school, in leadership roles, or in dance, she always gives her all, and her mom is so very proud. Sophia’s earned academic honors, taken on leadership positions, and achieved so much as a performer, but what truly sets her apart is her heart. Mom also told me something I loved hearing: Sophia is an incredible big sister and role model to her younger siblings. As this sweet grad gets ready to step into her next chapter, pointe shoes in tow, her mom hopes that she remains strong in her faith and stays true to herself. I know she will. Girls with a foundation like hers go on to change the world!
