A Senior, his dog, and his Bug – Wright’s Lake, Kyburz, CA

This session was the best: an old Beetle, paddle-boarding, a glass-like lake, a stunning sunset sky, and a handsome Senior, Sawyer. This photographer’s dream!

I have known Sawyer’s family for many years and have been photographing them for just as long. It all started with a lifestyle, anniversary session at their lovely home in Camino, and most recently I photographed their son, Colby, before he left for college (Colby’s session from 2011.) They are some of the kindest and most generous people I know; playful in spirit, sensitive and warm.

This year it was Sawyer’s turn in front of the camera and I photographed him and his dog, Baxter, at Wright’s Lake, just outside of Kyburz. Not only did we get some really great, iconic shots of Sawyer in front of his two-tone Beetle, I also got to get chauffeured on “Dorie”, another Haffner offspring, while chasing Sawyer around the lake — just my speed. We even got to incorporate a couple of family shots, as I always try to do with Senior sessions. Although 90% of a Senior’s session is about them, I can’t forget that mom and dad are part of their story too, and that they are filled with pride and love, and a little trepidation, at this milestone.

This kind of session really speaks to who I am as a photographer: clients who have become friends; telling the story of my subject through incorporating elements of their life that make them who they are; enjoying active pursuits such as running along the shoreline with dogs and paddle boarding; and then the gorgeous backdrop of a High Sierra lake at sunset. If every session could include these elements, I would be on cloud nine.

Every year I create a slideshow for Sawyer’s mom, Cheree, because she just loves them. The family are big Mumford and Sons fans and this song was the perfect, mood-setting accompaniment. You can view the slideshow by clicking here.

Thank you to Sawyer and his whole family for continuing to choose me as their photographer and for bringing their warm and playful spirit to my sessions — and good luck Sawyer as you finish out this year strong and then head to college!