When someone’s strength shines through during the toughest of times, you really learn a lot about that person’s character. Chloe and I got together for her senior portraits as she was graduating from Charlotte Catholic. It was an intense shoot for a number of reasons. 

Seniors reach out well in advance about their senior shoot to make sure they secure their spot when they want it. Chloe and her mother reached out and scheduled their date and when the time came around for the shoot, things changed drastically. About a week before the session date, Chloe’s mom passed away suddenly during their spring break. 

It was a surprise to me when she reached out and shared the news but I was not surprised when she said she didn’t know if she would be able to do it. How could I blame her? Her world was upside down and I thought to myself, “how is this even on her mind!?”

She reached out again and wanted to give it a try with a different date and we planned her portrait session about a month after her mother’s passing. She made the most of this memorable shoot and it was such a perfect day. You know the feeling when something’s so good it’s got to be fate, or faith, or some mysterious design? This was one of those times. 

We started at the studio with hair and makeup. Chloe had told me prior to the shoot that her mom really loved Tiffany. Loves the jewelry and wanted to see if we could do one of her outfits themed with Breakfast at Tiffany’s. I knew just who to ask. I got together with Marisa of Shop Jade Sky and together we put together an outfit for the theme. 

Our first stop was Noda where we shot her first two outfits. The first of which was so edgy it was amazing. Her true personality really came through in these images. Chloe is also an incredible dancer. She has danced in New York and Atlanta with some of the best and has made a name for herself in that space. The confidence, grace, and attitude of an elite dancer and a tough young woman came through so clearly. 

While Noda was a grungy, rough vibe, we followed that up with a crisp blue background to celebrate her college choice – Kentucky. She changed into her Kentucky gear and showed her more academic side with some school spirit. 

Finally, we made it to the last outfit change – the Breakfast at Tiffany’s theme. 

There was a specific location I had in mind that I thought would be perfect for this shoot and we started that way but were quickly stopped. We got kicked out of the area by a security guard and we were both frustrated. 

Even though we had to leave, I did know of another location that I thought would work well, too. We headed to the Mint Museum to shoot the last outfit. 

As we made our way through Downtown Charlotte toward the steps, we approached the Museum and all of us stopped and gasped. For whatever reason, the steps just outside the Mint Museum had been painted Tiffany blue. It all happens for a reason and it truly felt like her mother’s presence was with us. The shots by the stairs were incredible and it was one senior portrait shoot I will never forget. 

Chloe is a young lady of strength and exudes integrity, courage, and grace all at the same time. Her shoot was breathtaking and heartfelt. I truly believe that through struggle we get stronger and this young woman has a very bright future.