I had the pleasure of photographing Shay's family last summer when I first moved my family photography business to  Huntsville, Alabama! Ironically enough we connected through a dear friend of hers and client of mind back home in SC. 

So when Shay reached out and asked me if I could do a session for just her 13 year old daughter I was beyond excited!

I don't get to do solo portraits very often and this one was super special. 

Do you remember being 13? 

And all of the insecurity and uncertainty it brought?

Trying to figure out who you were vs who people wanted  you to be?

Trying to navigate all of the changes going on with you physically, emotionally and spiritually?

It was deep waters. 

What's something you would go back and tell your 13 year old self?

For me? It would be to enjoy becoming.

To not rush through my teen years but to enjoy the small chapter of life where your biggest responsibility is just showing up. 

And to spend more time with my mama. I realize now having girls how desperately you desire that closeness with your daughters. And how you want to be there to help them navigate this thing called life. 

Being with this beautiful young woman brought both joy and if I'm being honest, a little sting. 

Because I know that even though my girls are little, 13 is just around the corner.