I had the pleasure of working with Abby for her senior portraits at the beautiful Lyndale Rose Garden in Minneapolis, and it was the perfect setting to capture her quiet, kind spirit and her bright future.

The Garden’s Changing Seasons

When we planned Abby’s session at the Lyndale Rose Garden, I was a little nervous. The last time I had been to the garden was in the summer, and it was in full bloom—every corner was bursting with color. But September is a tricky time for flowers, and I wasn’t sure how much of the garden would still be alive with blooms. Would the roses still be vibrant? Would there be enough natural beauty to create stunning portraits?

I was pleasantly surprised. While the peak of summer blooms had passed, the garden still had plenty of gorgeous flowers to work with—especially in the more sheltered areas. There were deep purple asters, soft pink dahlias, and even a few lingering roses that had held on to their color longer than I expected. The lush greenery of the garden, mixed with the golden light of the early fall day, created a dreamy atmosphere. It was one of those moments that reminded me why I love photographing at the Lyndale Rose Garden—every season offers something different, and beauty can be found everywhere, even when you least expect it.

A Quiet, Sweet Spirit

Abby is a quiet and incredibly sweet young woman. At first, she seemed a bit reserved, but as soon as we started walking around the garden and chatting, it was clear just how thoughtful and kind she is. We spent some time getting to know each other, and it was wonderful to learn about Abby’s plans for the future.

Abby has a big heart for animals, and her goal after high school is to attend a vet tech program. It’s always inspiring to meet students who are so clear about their future goals and passionate about the path they want to pursue. Abby’s love for animals and desire to work in a field where she can make a real difference made her session feel even more special.

A Beautiful and Peaceful Session

Abby’s session was filled with calm moments and quiet beauty. The way she moved through the garden, taking in the scenery and allowing herself to be present in the moment, was such a reflection of her gentle nature. She didn’t need to say much; her presence alone was enough to create stunning photos. Whether she was standing next to a blooming flower, sitting on a stone bench by the fountain, or simply walking along one of the garden’s many winding paths, Abby’s photos captured the peaceful confidence she carries with her.

I loved how her outfits complemented the garden’s natural beauty. She chose soft, classic pieces that let her personality shine through without competing with the setting. One of my favorite moments was when she wore a light, flowing dress that moved with the breeze—it was the perfect match for the peacefulness of the garden, and the soft colors of the flowers really made her stand out. She exuded a quiet elegance that made her portraits feel timeless.

A Glimpse Into Abby’s Future

Throughout our session, I couldn’t help but think about the exciting things waiting for Abby after high school. Her passion for animals, combined with her calm demeanor and clear-headed focus, will surely serve her well in the vet tech program and beyond. It’s always so rewarding to photograph someone who is on the cusp of a new adventure, ready to take on the world with determination and heart.

Abby’s senior portraits were not just about capturing her image, but about honoring the person she is becoming—a compassionate, thoughtful individual who is ready to follow her dreams and make a difference in the world.

A Perfect September Day

As we wrapped up the session, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for such a beautiful day and a lovely experience. The weather was perfect—just enough warmth in the air with the subtle hint of fall—and the garden provided a stunning, tranquil backdrop for Abby’s portraits. The session was a perfect reflection of Abby’s quiet strength and bright future, and I’m so happy with how the photos turned out.

Abby, thank you so much for letting me capture this special time in your life. I hope these images will always remind you of the beauty and peace you carry with you, and of the exciting things ahead as you pursue your dreams in the vet tech program.