Learning to let things flow

This graduation session taught me one of the most important lessons of my photography journey: sometimes the best photos happen when you simply let things flow.

Ben is my brother’s best friend, but we’ve always felt more like siblings. We grew up together, so when he was graduating from LSUA around the same time I was launching my photography business, it felt like the perfect opportunity to practice photographing graduation portraits. I texted him and asked if I could take his graduation photos — completely free. To my surprise, he said yes. The only instruction I gave him was simple: bring your guitar.

At the time, I was still nervous about photographing men. I wasn’t confident in how to pose them or make the images feel natural and authentic. Going into this graduation session, I was overthinking everything — until Ben reminded me that sometimes the best approach is to let people be themselves.

We took his graduation photos at his grandparents’ camp, a location full of character and meaning. Because it was a familiar place, Ben knew all the best spots, which made the session feel relaxed from the start. He spent most of the time casually playing his guitar while I photographed him in his element, capturing natural, candid moments instead of stiff poses.

What I loved most about this LSUA graduation session was how effortless it felt. Nothing was overly planned or forced. It was real, simple, and true to who Ben is. That session helped shape my approach as a Louisiana lifestyle photographer, reminding me that connection matters more than perfection.



Looking back, this shoot taught me the beauty of stepping back, releasing control, and allowing genuine moments to unfold. Sometimes, the most meaningful graduation photos — and the best stories — happen when you stop directing and start observing.