When you’ve been a Dayton senior photographer as long as I have, you learn that no matter how meticulously you plan, live sessions have a way of throwing a few curveballs.
But time and time again, I’ve found that the sessions with the most plot twists turn out to be some of the best! That was 100% the case for Miranda’s senior portraits.
If Miranda looks familiar, it might be because I photographed her older brother, Ben, back in 2024. Just like her brother, Miranda is stunning, naturally photogenic, and an absolute natural in front of the lens.
Getting to capture another major milestone for this family was so special to me. I’ve known her parents, Rich and Cherry, since I was a teenager, and I am endlessly grateful that they continue to return to me and trust me with these irreplaceable high school memories.
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From Garden Light to Urban Twilight in Downtown Dayton
We started the afternoon at Wegerzyn Gardens, taking advantage of the lush greenery, blooming florals, and soft natural light for her classic portrait looks. Afterwards, we made our way into downtown Dayton near the Neon Theater to capture a cooler, urban backdrop for the evening.
My plan for downtown was to shoot straight through the twilight hour and lean into off-camera flash for some dramatic, editorial-style night shots.
Well, total transparency: technology decided to play hard to get right at dusk! When my flash wouldn’t cooperate, we pivoted on the fly, using ambient light, city glow, and creative framing to capture some of the dreamiest, most authentic evening shots.
To top it off, Miranda arrived not feeling well at all—she was genuinely under the weather. I told her right away that we could easily reschedule, but if you know Miranda, pushing off a deadline just isn’t her MO.
She is a determined leader who shows up and pushes through no matter what. Despite feeling sick, and knowing she had to get up early the next morning for work, she powered through with a smile until we wrapped around 8:00 PM!
Luckily, Rich and Cherry were absolute rocks. They stepped in to help scout spots, carry my step stool, and keep spirits high the whole time. (It definitely reminded me I need an assistant, but I couldn’t have asked for a better crew!)
The Magic in the Outcome
During the technical hiccups, I reminded everyone of something I’ve seen repeatedly over 19 years in photography: often, the most stressful sessions end up yielding the absolute best pictures.
Looking through Miranda’s finished story now, you’d never guess she wasn’t feeling well or that technology gave us a hard time. The photos turned out beautiful, proving that a session doesn’t have to go perfectly to produce something truly special.
Miranda, your resilience, leadership, and positive attitude are so inspiring. You have such a bright future ahead of you! Big thanks to Rich, Cherry, and Miranda for rolling with the punches, trusting the process, and making this session one to remember.
Here’s Miranda’s Story, in her own words:
One word to describe me is bubbly!
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I’m involved in Theatre, ASL Club, Honor Society President, after school A Cappella, Student Congress, Christians in Action, Cheerleading, and a bunch more to list haha.
I like my ability to take on multiple tasks at once, but I struggle with overstretching my schedule in order to help whoever I can.
I look up to my mom because she always knows what to say before I even know I need it.
I love that everyone is different.
There is no one in the world who is the same.
God made us all fearfully and wonderfully.
I listen to pop, emo, rap, and theater music (crazy mix I know).
Most people don’t know I have social anxiety.
I’ve learned you never know what someone is going through, even if they look okay on the outside.
I’ve also learned there are author names carved into the top of the Books&Co building at the Greene.
After graduation I plan to attend a 4 year University.
In ten years I see myself hopefully happy, with kids and a husband, and living comfortably.
Ready to Capture Your Senior Year?
Are you a Fairborn High School senior or local Dayton senior looking for a fun, authentic portrait session? Whether you want lush garden portraits or an urban downtown vibe, let’s design a session that tells your story!
Want to learn more about the senior experience?
Explore the Senior Session Page to see session options, curated location ideas across Dayton, and details on custom heirloom 12×12 Senior Albums.
Ready to get in touch and lock in your date?
Contact me today to check availability, ask questions, or start planning a session tailored entirely to you!
