Another beauty in front of my lens, and this one hit a little different. I’ve watched Gabi play sports around town since she was pint-sized, and now she’s a full-grown senior with confidence, kindness, and the kind of smile you don’t forget.

This year’s been a tough one, and I’ve been feeling it. But getting to photograph seniors like Gabi? It’s been a bright spot, for real. I try not to get too sappy here, so I’ll just say, grateful doesn’t even begin to cover it.

Gabi was the perfect mix of sweet and radiant. At first, she tried to give me her “serious” face, but let’s be honest, she’s all sunshine. The only time I’ve seen her not smiling was on the mound, mid-pitch. Otherwise, she lights up a frame without trying.

Of course, in true Erin fashion, the session included one near-collision (my bad) and a surprise spiderweb to the face. But if a little clumsiness brings out real laughs, I’ll take it.

Thank you, Gabi, for trusting me to capture this special time.