One of the things I was looking forward to for Z’s senior year was his senior photos. I have had people ask if I would take them, and I always answered YES—absolutely. I have been doing senior photos since before Z was born. I recently stumbled across this session I did when Z was a baby. It touched my heart thinking that 18 years later I’d be photographing my senior with his guitar.

I lost track of how many senior sessions I have done, but I’m guessing at least 100. They are my favorite because, first of all, teenagers follow instructions and are easy to work with, and also because I get to be a little more creative and artistic, showcasing the individual style and interests of each client. So I was super pumped for the day to come that I photographed my own child’s senior pictures.

He didn’t have much inspiration for the session; he mostly let me lead. We both agreed fall would be the best time, and I sort of settled on the Cincinnati Nature Center at the last minute because it’s gorgeous and we have so many memories there as a family, so it’s significant. Here is cute little Cub Scout Z when I photographed him in the Nature Center years ago.

The kicker is, when fall came, it was also when I was diagnosed with MS. I was not in a great place to do photography. However, this particular November weekend the weather was beautiful, and we weren’t sure if the fall foliage would last much longer. Thanks to J helping with driving and carrying all the equipment, we went for it and I am so thankful that we did!

What I’ve found over the last 20 years is that most guys do not love getting their picture taken, and though they may tolerate it, Mom is usually the one behind the scenes with all the energy and ideas. Z was a typical dude who really did not care at all, except for one part. He wanted to make sure his instruments were included. He wanted pictures with the bass he got for his birthday.

He wanted pictures with the ukulele he got last Christmas.

The drumsticks (he would have had a whole set out there if it were realistic).

His electric guitar, which he also got last Christmas.

Lastly, but my personal favorite, his dad’s guitar.

Here is baby Z playing that same guitar on his dad’s lap.

It’s also the guitar J played at our wedding. It was a really special full-circle moment to hear Z strum the guitar near the pond as the sun went down. Especially given my health lately, I am forever grateful for that moment and will always cherish it. Always.

I already submitted a photo to the yearbook; now I just need to pick out the announcements. Only 131 days till graduation. I can’t believe it’s almost here!