As summer comes to a close and the golden hour light grows softer, there’s a special kind of magic that fills the air—especially when you’re capturing a milestone like a senior portrait session. I had the pleasure of working with Aly for her senior portraits at Ritter Farm Park, a place that’s always been close to my heart. What made this session even more special is that I had the privilege of photographing Aly’s sister almost four years ago, so this family feels like one I’ve watched grow up, and it was wonderful to reunite with them for Aly’s big moment.

 

Full Circle: A Sister’s Journey

It’s not often that I get to photograph siblings, and it was such a joy to see Aly after working with her sister, Zoë, a few years ago. Aly and Zoë have grown into such unique, beautiful individuals, and while they share a lot of similarities, it was amazing to see how their personalities shine through in their portraits. As a photographer, it’s always interesting to see how different siblings express themselves, even in the same environment. Zoë’s session was such a memorable one, and I had no doubt that Aly’s would be just as incredible.

Ritter Farm Park: A Familiar Place with a New Twist

Ritter Farm Park holds a special place in my heart. I’ve done so many sessions there over the years, and it’s always been a go-to location for its beautiful landscapes, rustic charm, and serene vibe. However, what I didn’t expect this time around was how much the park had changed in just the last year. Areas that I had planned on using for Aly’s portraits had been altered or were under construction, leaving me with a little challenge on my hands. It’s always an adventure when your usual spots are no longer what you remember!

But as any photographer knows, change can be a blessing in disguise. While I had to adjust to the new landscape, it also opened up new creative opportunities. There were still so many beautiful spots to explore—new pathways, unique angles, and textures I hadn’t yet taken full advantage of in the past. The overgrown meadows, the soft, late summer grass, and the vibrant wildflowers created the perfect backdrop for Aly’s portraits, even though they weren’t the same as what I’d envisioned.

The unpredictability of the park gave the session an organic feel—things were constantly evolving, just like Aly’s transition into her senior year. It reminded me of how life constantly shifts, and how important it is to embrace the unexpected. Aly was an absolute pro, rolling with the changes and letting me guide her through the different spots I had discovered in the park.

The End of Summer Glow

There’s something about late summer that makes portraits feel extra dreamy. The warm, golden hues of the setting sun cast such a soft, flattering light that perfectly complemented Aly’s natural beauty. As we moved through the park, the light seemed to change by the minute, offering up new and exciting possibilities for photos. Aly’s effortless grace and relaxed nature made the shoot feel like we were just two people enjoying a quiet evening at the park rather than a formal session. I could tell she was feeling the moment, and that made all the difference in the world when it came to capturing her true spirit.

One of the things I love most about senior portrait sessions is the opportunity to create timeless images that reflect not only the person in front of the camera but the season of life they are in. Aly was on the cusp of so much change—graduation, new adventures, and a bright future ahead—and it was an honor to be able to document this special time for her.

Wrapping Up the Session

By the time we wrapped up the session, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude. Having photographed both of these ladies, it’s such an honor to photograph siblings for their senior pictures.  Ritter Farm Park may have undergone its own transformation, but Aly’s portraits reflect the same timeless beauty and youthful energy that always stays the same.

I’m so excited for Aly and the next chapter of her life. Whether she’s looking back on these portraits years from now or sharing them with friends and family now, I hope they serve as a reminder of her strength, grace, and the incredible journey that lies ahead.

Thanks again to Aly and her family for choosing me to capture this moment—it’s truly an honor to be a part of such meaningful milestones. And to anyone out there planning their own senior portrait session, remember that sometimes, the best memories come from embracing the unexpected!

Until next time, stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes moments, photography tips, and of course, plenty of beautiful portrait sessions!

 

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