Gibson: Humboldt Senior Photography

Some senior sessions feel energetic and fast-paced, others feel calm and easygoing, and every once in a while you get one that somehow manages to be both. That was exactly the case with this session. We met bright and early for a 6:15 AM sunrise start, and it honestly could not have been a better way to kick off the day. The weather was beautiful, the light was soft, and there was a quiet, peaceful feel to the morning that fit his personality so well. He was happy to knock out his session early and have the rest of the day ahead of him, which tells you a lot about the kind of person he is.

One of the things Gibson shared afterward that meant a lot to me was that it never felt like a photo shoot. Instead, it felt more like we were just out hanging out and creating along the way, without stress or pressure. What matters most to me is creating an experience where seniors can relax, be themselves, and move naturally, while trusting that I have the locations, lighting, and posing handled so they never have to overthink a single thing. He especially loved that I already knew which spots worked best for each outfit, which helped everything flow smoothly and kept the session moving without feeling rushed. On top of that, being open to specific shots he wanted and jumping right in without hesitation made the experience feel collaborative in the best way.

This session was also extra special because his family has been coming to me for photos since he was in kindergarten, and is the fourth and final senior in his family. Getting to watch someone grow up in front of my camera and then photograph their senior year never gets old. It is such a full-circle moment every time, and I never take that kind of trust lightly.

If I had to describe him in a few words, creative, driven, adventurous, and down to earth fit perfectly. He is the kind of person who does things with intention and is not afraid to push himself outside of his comfort zone, because he truly believes that is where growth happens. That mindset shows up in so many areas of his life, from the classes he takes to the hobbies he chooses to spend his time on.

Golf became a way for him to relax and reset, while trap shooting was something he simply enjoyed for the challenge. Outside of school, a lot of his time has been spent working on trucks, building and racing a train race truck with his friends, riding dirt bikes, and being around the people he cares about most. All of those experiences have clearly shaped both who he is and the direction he wants to go.

Science has always been his favorite subject because it genuinely intrigues him, so much so that he had all of his science credits finished halfway through junior year. Looking ahead, he plans to pursue either Ag Aviation or becoming an electrical lineman, with aviation pulling a little stronger on his heart. He has always had a special interest in flying and loves the adrenaline that comes with it, which makes that path feel like a natural fit.

One of the things I admire most about him is the quiet way he leads. He believes in doing what is right even when it is not the popular choice. He has learned not to carry other people’s problems, to ask for help when he needs it, and to stay focused on his own growth. If he could go back and talk to his freshman-year self, his advice would be simple. Take school seriously and get the work done on time.

As graduation gets closer, his goals are refreshingly straightforward. He wants to work hard, make good money, live comfortably, and be able to enjoy life without constantly worrying about finances. More than anything, he wants to build a future that feels authentic to him, not one shaped by outside opinions.

Getting to capture this season of his life was such an honor, and sessions like this are exactly why I love what I do. If you are dreaming of a senior session that feels effortless, collaborative, and completely you, I would love to create that experience with you.