There are moments in life when you realize you've changed, and this session was definitely one of those. To appreciate it fully, you’d have to know the old me. I used to be painfully shy, quiet, and reserved. Some of that still lingers, but age has loosened many of my filters, leaving me saying things I wouldn’t normally dare.
I was not the most popular kid in high school. At Cabrillo, where I spent my senior year, most students had already formed their friend groups, leaving me with the underclassmen. I think a lot of people probably assumed I was a freshman. So when Asher’s dad hopped out of the car and I almost blurted out, “You look really familiar, do I know you?” it caught both him and me off guard. But it turned out we all graduated the same year. In a rare twist of fate, I finally felt that connection.
As for Asher, he was a joy to photograph. With the whole family around, playfully poking and prodding him for laughs, it felt like a live comedy show. I encouraged them to keep it going, and the result was exactly what I aim for: genuine smiles, laughter, and even some cool tricks Asher decided to show off toward the end. I have to admit, my momma heart worried for his safety, but thankfully, he didn't hurt himself.
Thank you, Asher, for trusting me to capture this special time.
