Ethan - San Antonio High School Senior Photographer

Ethan came to us from our connection at church. He has been home-schooled and plans on attending Texas A&M University in the Fall. Ethan is musically inclined. He plays the piano and guitar, programs code, and makes music for video games.

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He wants to study engineering and eventually get into the Game Design segment of society. Ethan is quick-witted, laid-back, methodical, and strives to give his best at what he does. His ultimate dream would be to become a famous musician, but if that doesn’t come to fruition, then a career in the Game Design industry will be fine with him. His love of music was clearly a big part of his senior portrait session. We started at our church, where we got some epic images on stage with a grand piano.

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We finished up at the studio where we got some great shots of him with two of his guitars. Ethan has a bright future. He has the support, intelligence, and determination to achieve his goals. I see him really enjoying the college life, and then fitting right in with the Gaming Developer crowd. Who knows, maybe some day, his game designs will make it into your home.

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Where Are They Now? Courtney - San Antonio Headshot Photographer

Courtney called and wanted us to do some headshots for her.  She's entering into the world of Farm and Ranch Real Estate so she figured she needed a few headshot portraits to help with marketing herself.  We did Courtney's senior portraits 11 years ago (done at the beginning of her senior year).   I can't believe it's been that long, but she hasn't changed, except she's even more beautiful today.  For her senior session (pic on left) we drove out to an acquaintance of mine to use his collection of old tractors and farm equipment.  The session went by pretty quick, but we got some great shots.  Courtney was into all the FFA stuff Madison HS had to offer during her 2009-2010 senior year, and also competed in the FFA National's event.  When she graduated high school she attended two Universities where she obtained a degree and went to work for a company as a marketer.  She then was hired by another company to do it's social media and promotion.  Recently, she met an owner of a Farm and Ranch Real Estate company, and to make this story shorter, is now working in that field.  During her time in the business world, she came to realize what was really important in her life.  She realized that she didn't have to have it all figured out.  She was okay with the fact that she didn't have to have her life all mapped out.  It was one of the most important turning points in her young life.  All of her travels and experiences meeting new people and seeing new places was very much appreciated, but Courtney wants to be closer to home.  Her new job will still require travel, but it will only be in the state of Texas (you can't go wrong with that).  Courtney has blossomed into an even more beautiful young lady, both inside and out.  She has her priorities in the right places.  Did I mention she's single?  But before anyone jumps at the chance to land this beauty, I will tell you guys, you better bring your A-game, because integrity is the minimum requirement to approach this beauty.  As for her headshot session (pic on right), we got some really great images of her.  I am amazed and blessed to get the opportunity to watch people grow, mature, and share life with.  I guess it's one of the best things about my job.  If I do it right, people are pleased, and they remember where to go when they need creative, well-done, and purposeful portraits.  Thanks Courtney for choosing us for your promotional headshot portraits.  You are a special young lady, and I look forward to watching life unfold for you.

Courtney then, and now…..

Courtney then, and now…..

A Date at the Zoo - San Antonio Fun Photographer

This past weekend I planned a date with my significant other to go out and have fun. My plan was to have a photography photo safari. I made a list of 25 things we were to photograph. Each of us took a camera and walked around the zoo capturing all kinds of things. One of the coolest parts was the Lego Displays they had setup throughout the zoo. Topics included something red, blue, green, and orange. Something bigger than a car, smaller than your hand. Something slimy, something with scales, feathers, and so on. We were one of the first ones there so we didn’t have to deal with any crowds or hot temperatures. Anyway, we spent about 3 hours capturing anything and everything our creative minds could come up with to complete the challenging list. I plan on writing more (probably in an upcoming newsletter) about how to photograph at the zoo, so stay tuned….. Here are some of our pics from the day. Enjoy…..

my favorite image from the day…..

my favorite image from the day…..

love is in the air, or at least the shape of their heart was….

love is in the air, or at least the shape of their heart was….

saw complimentary colors. in this one…..

saw complimentary colors. in this one…..

Perfect lighting….

Perfect lighting….

my image capturing lazy…..

my image capturing lazy…..

it’s not what you think it is…..

it’s not what you think it is…..

smaller than a hand….

smaller than a hand….

can you say “Fruit Loops”…

can you say “Fruit Loops”…

capturing motion in flight….

capturing motion in flight….

Green Danger waiting to strike….

Green Danger waiting to strike….

All made of LEGOs….the rose, the woman, and the lawn mower….

All made of LEGOs….the rose, the woman, and the lawn mower….

The backside of a Rhino…. wagging it’s tail….

The backside of a Rhino…. wagging it’s tail….

it’s a small, small world….

it’s a small, small world….

An array of colors…..

An array of colors…..

Bigger than a Bus….

Bigger than a Bus….

LEGOS Telling a story….

LEGOS Telling a story….

Simple elegance….

Simple elegance….

Shades of blue…

Shades of blue…

A very social butterfly…

A very social butterfly…

Terrifying Beauty…

Terrifying Beauty…

Is There A Doctor (PhD) in the House? - San Antonio Senior Photographer

Mikayla, Aleya, and Sharon have all put in there time studying, performing, and living the college life.  Each young lady has earned a degree in the Bio Sciences.  Each has tremendous intellectual abilities, but more so, they are physically gifted and determined to leave this world a better place than when they arrived.  Aleya (jumping cheerleader) is the youngest of 4 daughters, all of which are multi-talented as well.  She graduated from UTSA this year and is pursuing her PhD in Dallas.  Aleya was a cheerleader for all 4 years that she attended UTSA, as well as many other organizations.  She wants to work for the Military or start a program for less fortunate kids that allows them to have the same opportunities she has had in pursuing her education.  Mikayla (leaning on Pedro) just graduated from UTSA, and is heading off to Georgia Tech to pursue her PhD in Bio-Sciences.  She wants to head a corporation and make big decisions.  She was also a cheerleader at UTSA.  She has an incredible story about her life; one that vividly shows what true, genuine love is really all about. Sharon (lab coat scientist) is a few years ahead of both of the other young ladies.  She just completed her PhD in Bio-Sciences.  She actually invented a membrane that aids in the study of liquids when zapped with a laser.  You talk about cool.  She also wants to work in the corporate world.  Sharon is not only intellectually gifted, but she is musically talented.  She plays the violin and piano.  She has performed with the SA Symphony, and numerous other big-time events.  Her goal with her music is to make it in the industry by combining playing an electric violin and performing (song and dance).  All three of these ladies blew me away with there ambition and fortitude in pursuing exactly what they want in life.  Their diligence, persistence, and perseverance through 16+ years of education has not only benefited them, but also the universities they attended.  When people say women can't do this or that, here’s proof that they can do anything they want to and achieve their goals. Mikayla, Aleya, and Sharon you truly are an inspiration to not only me, but to all those around you. May you make your mark on this world, and leave it a much better place.

Aleya, Sharon, and Mikayla

Aleya, Sharon, and Mikayla

Pandemic Senior Year: In Their Words- Kolby - San Antonio High School Senior Photographer

Here’s a series of seniors that participated in my project. Missing out, blessed, confused, stressed, these are just some of the emotions people are facing during these uncertain times. And these seniors are dealing with it the best they can. Today is Senior 1, Kolby…..

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Jacob the Ranger - San Antonio High School Senior Photographer

Jacob comes to us from SACS. I photographed his brother a few years ago, as well as created a family portrait for them when he was very young. It’s hard to believe I get the privilege of capturing Jacob once when he was little, and now that he’s about to venture out in the real world. Time waits for no one. Anyway, Jacob wants to attend Tarleton State in the Fall, and then on to Army Ranger school. He wants to have a military career protecting the freedoms this country has been blessed with. Jacob is reserved, more of a serious-minded person. He’s honest, mature for his age, and seems to have a sense for justice, probably where his patriotism comes from. As we talked during the pre-consultation, I saw a lot of myself in him. Jacob loves to hunt, and he also runs cross-country for his school. I’m sure whatever the future holds for him, he will succeed because he seems to know how to stay focused. He told me one of the greatest things his dad taught him was the value of hard work. Just one more reason I know he will make this world a better place, better than he found it.

His favorites:

Song: “Country Boy” by Aaron Lewis

Plans for next year: Attend Tarelton State University

If He could have one wish: to re-live my childhood

If he could do one thing to impact the world: put an end to corruption

Jacob, you have a good head on your shoulders. Your vision for your future seems very clear. Stay true to yourself, honor what you know to be right, and hold on tight to the faith you’ve been blessed with. Your decision to serve in the military is very honorable. I know you will serve and protect well. Click here to see a short video from the session.

Future Patriotic Ranger

Future Patriotic Ranger

Miss Izzie - San Antonio High School Senior Photographer

Izzie came to us from Randolph HS. She’s a cheerleader there. She competes with a non-school team as well, and as a matter of fact, won a national championship with them last year. Izzie is not only a beauty with athletic skills, but she’s brainy and mysterious. She told us that she wants to be an FBI agent when she finishes school at Ole Miss. I guess you could say, she’s one all-around, multi-talented, nerdy-brainy, don’t-mess-with-me, kinda girl. Anyway, we had fun during the session. Her pics turned out fantastic.

Her favorites:

Quote: “Hard work betrays none”

Song: Castle on the Hill

Plans for next year: Attend Ole Miss

What people will remember about her: Her personality

If she could do one thing to impact the world: Grant access to education to 3rd world countries

Izzie, you are someone I expect great things from. Your talents will take you far in life. I absolutely loved your favorite quote. Stick to it, and your aspirations of becoming what you want to be, will become a reality. Click here to see a short video from the session.

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Madi-Adison - San Antonio HS Senior Photographer

Miss Madi-adison (my nickname for her) comes to us from Marion HS. We have photographed all of her sisters (3 total), so she makes 4 completing the family. All of them are uniquely different. Madi is a funny, outgoing, emotionally driven, and a caring person. She, out of all the sisters, seems to be the most fashion-oriented. After graduation, she plans on joining the Air Force to see the world, and become a RAD Tech. I think Madi could have a good time just about anywhere, she seems to have the ability to make the best of situations. Her mom requested plenty of vertical portraits, so out of all the seniors I’ve ever photographed, I think Madi wins hands down for vertical orientation images. Anyway, here’s some more information to help you get to know her:

Her favorites:

Quote: “It’s not who you are that holds you back, it’s who you think you’re not”

Song: “She’s Got a Way with Words”

Plans for next year: Join the Military and see the world

What people will remember her most for: Dropped 95 lbs on her neck

If she could do one thing to impact the world: Save any dog at a kill shelter or that is stranded

Madi, you are fun to be around, you bring life to the party, and you definitely have a fashion sense about you. I know as you journey out into life, you’ll make the best of it. And you’ll give your best to those around you. May all your dreams come true, as you venture out to see the world. Keep ‘em smiling. Click here to see a short video of the session.

#highschoolseniorportraits, #seniorportraits #creativeportraits #welldonephotography

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Future Military JAG - San Antonio HS Senior Photographer

Miss Emma comes to us from Randolph High School.  She's a beauty for sure.  She's got her act together.  She's driven, knows exactly what she wants, and has a plan to achieve her goals.  Her plans are to attend the University of Alabama this Fall, where she will study to become a lawyer in the US Air Force.  She plans of making the military her career.  Then on to politics. Emma is involved in just about everything offered at her school; ROTC, on the tennis team, track and field team, powerlifting team (yes, I’m not exaggerating), and various other groups.  When she does find free time, she loves to watch her favorite TV show, Friends.  She told me she just about has every episode memorized. 

Her favorites:

Quote: “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams”

Song: “Africa” by Toto

Plans for next year: Attend the University of Alabama

What people will remember her most for: Her ability to connect with people

If she could do one thing to impact the world: Help close the huge division between everyone in America

Emma, you are a very special young lady. Your uncanny ability to connect with people is a gift. Your abilities are limitless, and your future is bright. You can’t fault anyone that loves the movie “Forrest Gump”. I hope your future is filled will meaningful relationships, and you make your mark on the world. And for any reason, you don’t achieve all of your goals, you will still be a success. Watch a short video from the session here.

An authentic beauty…..

An authentic beauty…..

Future Engineer - San Antonio HS Senior Photographer

Josh comes to us from John Paul ll High School. He’s planning of attending college after graduation and pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering. His love of Space attracted him to this field. He actually would love to major in Space Engineering, but that’s a very specific and limited field. I’ve known Josh’s mom since before he was born, literally. I used to walk by her office and see her bump (him) growing every day. I also had the privilege of knowing two of his sisters. Josh is a very down-to-earth young man. He’s been raised to believe and pursue truth. I have no worries that he will succeed in what he sets his heart and mind on. He’s strong-willed, independent, quick-witted, and intelligent. He’s says he’s ready to attend University in the Fall, probably choosing Texas A&M Corpus Christi or UTSA. Either way, he’ll eventually make it to Texas A&M University in College Station.

His favorites:

Quote: “Even in the darkest of nights, I still see the moonlight”

Plans for next year: Study Engineering in College

If he could do one thing to impact the world: Help put a man on Mars

You can see more of Josh in this short video.

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Mr. Baseball - San Antonio High School Senior Photographer

Logan came to us from East Central HS. He is a member of the baseball team. Logan is full of life. The entire time we had him, he never stopped. His energy levels were off the chart. Always laughing and having a good time. Logan is blessed to have the two parents he has. They love him to death. But the funny thing is, he doesn’t take it for granted. He doesn’t act spoiled. He knows how good he has it, and acts accordingly. We had a marathon session, but Logan never stopped. He even went out with his girlfriend afterwards. Our session started at the studio and finished at the baseball field at East Central HS. I really enjoyed photographing him. He has enough personality for a few people. There’s never a dull moment with him.

His Favorites:

Quote: “Luck to me is lots of determination, hard work, faith in myself, and in God”

Song: “Stressed Out: If We Could Turn Back Time” by Twenty-One Pilot

Plans for Next Year: Go to College

What people will remember him most for: His personality: Good-Hearted, Smile, and Goofiness

If he could do one thing to impact the world: Solve Poverty

Logan has faced many challenges in his life, but he has learned how to overcome. Hard work, determination, perseverance, and persistence are all part of his character. He has achieved what most people aren’t willing to go the extra mile for. Logan, I know you will “make it” in life. How do I know this? Your ambition and willingness to be a team player speaks volumes for your character. Your parents have done you right, and that my friend is one of the greatest blessings you could ever wish for. You can see more images from the session here, in this short video.

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Kaptain Kyle - San Antonio HS Senior Photographer

We’ve known Kyle for about 4 years, he lives down the street from us. Kyle will graduate from Clemens HS this Spring. He plans on joining the military to become a pilot/chaplain. I know it’s seems like a strange combination, but think about it: he will be closer to the Heavens while flying, so his prayers won’t have to travel as far. Kyle was the recipient of a scholarship that starts him in pilot training this Summer. He plans on joining the Air Force Reserves afterwards, and eventually becoming an officer, when he finishes up his schooling. Since Kyle likes to dress up, I thought, “why not capture him ‘Vanity Fair Style’?” The image turned out exactly as I thought it would. I think he could actually be on the cover of a major styling magazine. “Lookin’ mighty dapper”.

His favorites:

Quote: “When at first you don’t succeed, try, try again. Then give up. There’s no need to make a fool of yourself”

Song: “Control” by For King and Country

Plans for next year: Air Force Reserves and College

What people will remember him most for: His positivity

If he could do one thing to impact the world: Tell everyone about a man named Jesus

When we discussed what he wanted for his portrait session, he wanted something with airplanes and a runway. I called a friend of mine, Jeff W, and he helped set it up. On the day of the session, we met Brad, call sign “Hoss”, at the flight line, and he escorted us to where the planes were. Every thing worked out perfectly. There were A-10s on the runway, T-38s everywhere, and a couple of F-16s at the end of the tarmac. I could’ve stayed there all day and shot, but we had to get back to the studio to finish up his session. I must say, “Jeff, you are the man”. Thanks for helping set this session up. And Brad, your hospitality and genuine concern for us to get the best images, really stood out. I can’t say enough about the entire experience. Kyle, I hope all of your dreams become a reality. We need more pilots in this country, but more importantly, we need more men of integrity. You are definitely on the right path. We hope your career leads many, many more people to the Truth. View more images from the session in a short video here.

GQ Kyle….

GQ Kyle….

Kaptain Kyle "‘Top Gun” Style…

Kaptain Kyle "‘Top Gun” Style…

Soccer Extraordinaire - San Antonio HS Senior Photographer

Miss Krystal comes to us from Steele HS. She’s a 4 year lettermen on the Varsity Soccer team. She plans on playing soccer (on scholarship) in College at TLU in the Fall. She wants to major in Kinesiology, and become a teacher and coach, hopefully passing on her in-depth knowledge of the sport, along with her experiential wisdom. Krystal isn’t a “limelight” person, or a girlie girl. She loves soccer, and likes to hike, and be outside. She’s smart, caring, funny, kind, and clumsy.

Her favorites:

Quote: “The best view comes after the hardest climb”

Song: “You Say” by Lauren Daigle

Plans for next year: Attend TLU and play soccer

What people will remember her most for: Her caring heart

If she could do one thing to impact the world: Give everyone a reason to smile

Krystal was fun to photograph. I think she’s got her head on straight, knows what she wants, and has a plan to achieve her goals. There’s no doubt in my mind, she’ll be exactly where she thinks she’ll be 10 years from now. On a side note, I went to school with her mom (small world, isn’t it?). We grew up living on the same street. Krystal is already on her way impacting the world, she gave me reason to smile ; ) You can watch a video to see more of her from the session, here.

CK Seniors: 10 Years Out - San Antonio HS Senior Photographer

I'm starting another project. It's called CKSeniors 10 Years Out. If you are in the image below (make sure to click on the image, there's 42 people in it), contact me. I want to photograph you now. It will be kinda like a "where are they now" story. If you're interested, and you graduated from high school in 2008 (or before), and we did your senior portraits, give us a call. This is going to be a fun, and interesting project, and it won't cost you a dime (it's free). Every one else (all the rest of our CK Senior Alumni), when we get to your 10 year mark, give us a call. Let's see how many of you will participate. Don't wait, be the first one call us today.....

Can’t wait to see the side by side differences of the portraits, then and now…..

Can’t wait to see the side by side differences of the portraits, then and now…..