As a photographer, I have had the privilege of capturing countless beautiful moments in people’s lives. Each photo session is unique, and I love creating images that my clients will cherish for a lifetime. However, some moments are more special than others, and one such occasion was taking senior photos of this young man, who turns 18 today.

This young man holds a special place in my heart, not only as the son of one of my cousins as well as the son of one of my best friends but also as the first newborn I ever photographed, a journey that has now come full circle with his senior photos. I’ve had the joy of documenting his growth and milestones, from his earliest days to capturing action shots in various sports, to this important milestone of adulthood.

Connor has been stuck in front of my camera since the day he was born whether he liked it or not. I fondly recall all the moments he and his sister spent with me during other people’s photo sessions. As a baby, Connor would be standing in his active play center as we had sessions in our living room, they followed me around on various on-location portrait sessions, and I remember them sitting in the front room of the studio countless times. At just 2 years old, Connor started taking photos of his uncles playing sports while sitting on my lap. He also would take one of my cameras and go around our family farm to capture the world from his unique perspective. And if you ask Connor about those early farm photography adventures, you’re sure to see a smile light up his face as his photos were quite interesting.

One remarkable memory that stands out is when Connor, at about four years old, he enthusiastically assisted me in setting up a backdrop and lighting for a quick makeover session. He has also helped with taking photos of some events when he was little and filled in as an assistant when someone couldn’t work. I also have to mention how he played a crucial role during his senior session in downtown Rochester, carrying and setting up the lighting for his own photos. So, he’s been a part of Photography by Kari in many ways in his 18 years which I’m incredibly thankful for.

Turning 18 is a pivotal moment in anyone’s life, and I am deeply grateful that I had the opportunity to be there, camera in hand, to document the journey of the past 18 years for Connor. Connor has made a remarkable commitment by enlisting in the Marines. As Connor takes this significant step, I am filled with as he finishes high school and heads out to serve our country.

These senior photos are far more than images; they are a testament to the love, pride, and excitement we, as family members, feel as we watch Connor’s journey into adulthood. They represent not only the past 18 years but also the bright future he is creating for himself and the service he will provide to our nation. We are excited to see the extraordinary path he will continue to tread, and I am thankful to have been a part of preserving these significant moments in his life.

So, here’s to you, Connor, my cousin, my friend, and one of my favorite models. Happy 18th birthday! I love you! May the photographs I’ve captured of you continue to tell your extraordinary story for years to come, reminding us all of the incredible journey you’re embarking on – from childhood to adulthood, and soon, as a proud Marine.

Lastly, here’s to the future, and may it be as remarkable as the path you’ve already walked. Your journey has only just begun, and I can’t wait to see the remarkable chapters yet to be written.