At the beginning of our senior photography session in Downtown Phoenix, you could practically feel Toby stepping into the unknown. But hey, I’ve got my tricks. With his favorite artist playing softly in the background—something I learned from the detailed senior questionnaire I send out at booking—Toby started to shed his initial hesitation.
This session was particularly special for me. I’ve been photographing Toby and his family for the past four years, capturing countless memories and moments. But this time, the spotlight was solely on him. Toby, who usually shares the camera’s attention with his siblings and parents, was now the star in front of my lens. It’s evident he’s not one to seek the limelight, but my 90-minute senior VIP Tours are designed to ease anyone into the experience.
These sessions are like a secret sauce, you know? Watching someone slowly come out of their shell is like watching an egg crack open. For Toby, standing solo in front of my lens was a new experience, and he was clearly out of his comfort zone without his siblings to share jokes and laughter. But as the session progressed, he started to relax, showing more of his true self.
Capturing Toby in these moments before he leaves for college was incredibly rewarding. He’s one of the top students in his class, clearly the brains of the operation, and he knows exactly what he wants. The urban backdrop of Downtown Phoenix provided the perfect setting to capture his unique vibe for senior portraits. The textures, colors, and energy of the city complemented Toby’s personality, and I’m thrilled with how the photos turned out.
Being a Downtown Phoenix senior photographer allows me to blend the urban landscape with the personal stories of each senior I photograph. It’s all about capturing those authentic moments and creating a visual narrative that seniors and their families can cherish forever. Toby’s session is a perfect example of this. From initial nerves to confident smiles, every shot tells a part of his story, a story that’s just beginning as he embarks on his next adventure.
