I knew when I took her photographs that it might be the last opportunity to work with someone for a while. We were at the beginning of the need for social distancing when Kathryn’s session took place. Shortly after her session, it became clear that portrait photography would have to be put on hold indefinitely. Life as a photographer was about to change and the future was uncertain. I wasn’t the only one that day that knew things were going to be different in the coming weeks. Kathryn’s dreams of how her senior year of high school would end were changing each day. She knew that some of the things she had been looking forward to experiencing might not take place. It would be understandable if this years seniors felt cheated out of an important part of their life. But, somehow she was still able to put a smile on her face and carry on as if everything was normal. We talked about her plans for college and what the future might hold for her. As the afternoon progressed, I noticed my concerns about the future began to subside. Spending the afternoon with this young senior had lifted my spirits.
Thank you doesn’t begin to express how grateful I am to work with young people like Kathryn. Senior portraits have become one of my favorite things to do as a photographer. This spring has presented some unusual challenges, but it looks like things are slowly getting better. I have started booking senior sessions again with the understanding that we can reschedule if necessary. I hope every senior that desires to have a portrait session will make it happen. I miss spending time with and getting to know these young people. For better or worse, this will be a memorable year for high school seniors. Best of luck to Kathryn and all of the Class of 2020.