Why do I love photographing Senior Sessions? I love getting to know these kids!

Usually what happens first is we all show up to our designated place. Sometimes I pick the spot but I also like it when they know exactly where they want to go. If I haven't been there before, I usually go scope it out a week or so before to get an idea of where and what I'd like to do.
So we all show up and everyone is either quiet or starts with small talk. Mom or Dad will often start with telling me what they want to achieve during the shoot and the kid is quiet. As we move along through the first few "awkward" shots, the parents start to back off. Don't get me wrong - I like their input and ideas, but once they hang back a little, looking at landscape, checking their phones, or chatting with my assistant (if I bring one), that's when the magic starts.
You know that old saying that kids are worse when their parents are around? It's mostly true and my own three boys are proof! It always seems though, that once the parents aren't as close, the senior starts chatting a little. I ask questions - "So what kind of photos are YOU wanting?" We talk about their senior year and the excitement and nervousness that goes along with graduation, and of course, we talk about, "What's next?" THERE IT IS! That smile I've been looking for!
The light in their eyes when they start dreaming about their future and the journey into adulthood, living out plans they have in their heads and hearts. That spark of excitement in their eyes and the genuine big toothy smile. They start getting excited and moving their hands and walking differently, holding their heads higher, bringing a bigger personality than the session started with.
By the end, I usually know where or if they're going to school, their next step, who their best friend is, and we're "friending" each other on social media.
Yep, that's the good stuff!
All of my sessions are fun, but watching these young adults glow with anticipation ... I just love it!