As a mom of two teenagers on the brink of adulthood, I find myself caught in the whirlwind of emotions that come with seeing my children grow. With my oldest approaching 20 and my youngest on the verge of graduating, It's a surreal experience that makes time's swift passage all too apparent, some days it's hard to not stop and think abut all of these changes that are happening so quickly without tears in my eyes! I mean wasn't it yesterday that I was driving them to preschool, how did these years go by so quickly? And trust me when I say Senior Year seems like it runs at double speed. It's literally like I blinked and my little kids are all grown. I seriously just had a breakdown at the orthodonist scheduling my son's next retainer check - it was going to be when he was already gone for college(made it for this summer). But y'all I just about had a breakdown in their lobby - when I looked at my calendar for when they wanted to schedule his appointment I just stood there. Pretty sure the receptionist thought I was loosing it as I stood in silence. How did we get here? The reality of him turning 18 in a couple of months and him graduating a few months later. Ok moving on emotion is hitting me writing this. . . .
Deep breaths for all parents of seniors and soon to be seniors. Be sure to stock up on tissues as it is a joyful but bumpy and emotional ride. All "the lasts" really start to get to you, it's bittersweet but still very sad and heartbreaking to know that your kids are growing up and entering into adulthood.
The urgency to savor every moment intensifies as they enter their last year of high-school, a sentiment that echoes through the portraits I've captured of my senior daughter. From the sun-kissed beaches to the cap and gown sessions, these snapshots are more than images—they're frozen memories, a bittersweet journey from the beginning of her senior year to the triumphant graduation. I am so grateful that I was able to capture her senior year with all of these memories for us to treasure. These memories are for her as much as they are for me.
Navigating the tumultuous waters of college applications and life choices, I understand the stress that accompanies this pivotal period. (Trust me we are living through all of that in this house!) It's this empathy that fuels the essence of the senior model team—an empathetic ear, a supportive peer group, and a source of lifelong friendships. This is not a competition but a community uplifting each other through the highs and lows, ensuring an unforgettable senior year. I know what it is like, I have been there and again going through it one more time. It's hard watching your kid with the hardships of high-school and I'm all about if there is another adult that I trust that wants to also pour into my kid - Let's Go! You know how it is you can tell your kid the same thing over and over and they won't listen but another adult tells them the same thing and it's like WOW that is a great idea. But sometimes they just need to hear it from someone else for it to stick. I want to be that other adult that come along beside the parents to support and cheer on their kid during this important time in their life.
Learning to serve others is another great life lesson - so I have Incorporated a service project into the model team dynamic to add a layer of shared purpose. From crafting snowmen for the children's hospital to future initiatives, this collective effort fosters teamwork, compassion, and a sense of giving back. Starting the service project at the meet and greet amplifies the impact, setting the tone for a year centered around camaraderie and making a positive difference together. Serving others as a team is a great way to break the ice and create bonds that will build throughout the year.
As the chapters of my own children's lives unfold, I am reminded daily of the preciousness of time. Through the lens of my camera and the bonds forged in the senior model team, I aim to freeze these fleeting moments, creating not just photographs but a legacy of shared experiences, growth, and the enduring strength of supportive connections.
In the whirlwind of senior year, where time slips through our fingers like sand, there's a profound beauty in freezing these fleeting moments.
JMFHOTO Senior model teams are more than a collection of portraits; they are a celebration of a crucial chapter in a teenager's life.
As a senior photographer, my mission transcends the lens. It's about cherishing and immortalizing the essence of this transformative period. The senior year marks a time of growth, self-discovery, and the anticipation of a future that unfolds with each passing day.
Beyond capturing picturesque scenes, I strive to become a supportive figure in their lives. I want to be the cheerleader during exam preparations, the listener during relationship ups and downs, and the guiding light through the challenging college application process. I encourage them to call me whenever they need an adult presence, emphasizing that I am there to navigate this significant journey alongside them. I tell my team from the very beginning if they need an adult and can't get in touch with their parents to call me and if I'm able I will come to them if they need me.
The JMFHOTO senior model experience is a tapestry of memories woven together – from carefree beach trips where laughter mingles with the sound of ocean waves to elegant castle sessions during the festive holiday season. We dance through sunflower fields and peach orchards, creating a visual diary of their senior year's diverse landscapes.
The pinnacle is the individual session, a canvas where their genuine selves paint vivid portraits. By this point, the camera becomes a seamless extension, capturing the unfiltered essence of their personality. It's a transformative experience, watching them evolve from the tentative first session to the confident and radiant individuals they become.
It is truely MAGICAL every time watching this happen - these teen's personality just jump from their images.
The amazing model team journey concludes in cap and gown sessions, a bittersweet celebration of their achievements. As I witness their growth, joy mixes with a touch of sadness – the paradox of seeing them spread their wings while knowing our time together is drawing to a close. Yet, these emotions are a testament to the profound impact each senior model team leaves on my heart.
Every senior model team is a unique chapter etched into the fabric of my professional journey. These young individuals bring immeasurable joy and blessings, and it's an honor to contribute to their most memorable and transformative year. Pouring into their lives, being a constant during their highs and lows, is a privilege I cherish, creating not just photographs but lasting connections that transcend time.
Senior year is so busy with all of the things, we try to do fun hangouts as much as possible when everyone is available - fun Christmas hangout with secret santa and wrap up the year with some fun colored powder fun! Creating all of these sweet traditions is just priceless.
It's hard to believe we are half way through the 2024 Model Team and it's time for the class of 2025 to apply to join the fun.
2025 JMFHOTO Model Team Applications close on Nov 15th - Don't miss out on this amazing adventure.
Senior Portrait Photographer Serving Fuquay Varina, Cary, Holly Springs, Apex, Raleigh, Durham and surrounding areas.