Emma’s family moved to Selma when she was in first grade, just a couple of years after I started my business. I’ve had the privilege of photographing their family over the last decade, so getting to document Emma’s senior year (and have her on my spokesmodel team!) felt extra special.

We started at their home right on the Alabama River, which couldn’t have been a more perfect setting for her session. There were a few azaleas still holding onto their blooms after a recent freeze and we made sure to take advantage of every bit of color they offered. From there, we loaded up on their boat and headed down the river.

There’s a spot nearby called Little Miami where Emma had envisioned her portraits and I loved seeing it come to life. The light, the movement of the water, and the quiet stillness of that stretch of the river all came together in such a beautiful way. It felt effortless, like the location was made just for her.

When it was time to change outfits, her mom suggested she get in the water in her dress and I’m so glad she did. Emma didn’t hesitate for a second. Growing up on the river, she was right at home and it showed in every photo. Those images of her in her element are some of my favorites from the entire evening.

We finished up back at their dock, where we tried something a little different. Emma stepped off the boat while I stayed on, photographing her from the water. It added such a fun, dynamic perspective to the session and was the perfect way to end the night.

Emma, I have loved having you on my spokesmodel team this year! I can’t wait to see all that the future holds for you. And to your parents, thank you for being the sweetest repeats all these years! It is always such a gift to photograph your milestones and be welcomed back again and again.