The Class of 2011 - Your Gift

The Class of 2011

This session was quit different than any others I have done. I have to be honest, being asked to shoot a day with 11 seniors did not immediately sound appealing to me. But with much thought, I became excited to shoot the event for them.  It was a Saturday afternoon when we arrived (my wife and I) to begin the shoot at their private picnic. Shooting a picnic for Seniors is not the easiest thing to plan. As a photographer you try to pre-plan your shots, you try to have a game plan. This time, we had nothing. No ideas, no pre determined feels or moods...Nothing. We didnt know what to expect. So we went there with the mindset to give them some great photos of their day. What happened was unexpected. When the camera is in my hand I feel like its my duty to give the client the gift of great memories. This day was different. This day I am the one who got the gift. 

This was a group of Home School Kids. You hear so many negative things about Home School kids that you kind of expect there to be some truth to it.  In all my life I dont think I have ever met a more honest, polite and respectful group of kids. I was literally blown away.  The Integrity and Truth behind their words and actions were refreshing.  The next time you hear someone say something negative or derogatory towards kids being home schooled, let me know, I got a some great examples of success stories. I will say this, If all America was Home Schooled, this would be a much better place.

The picnic was just the beginning. I began to get to know a few of these Seniors. And I regret that I didnt take the time to know them sooner.  After talking to them, hearing their plans, their goals and their love for God, it was obvious to me that they really have a passion for Christ. Its not just words to them.  I remember when I was their age, I did what I did to please my parents, to please others. Their hearts desire is to please God. And I thank God that I did decide to shoot their day, because God gave me the gift of so many friendships that I most likely would have missed other wise.

The saddest part of the entire event is that it has to end.  Coming up next is college and careers. Some will be moving away and some will stay. One things for sure, things will change. I am sad that I didnt take the time sooner to get to know this group, But its all part of Gods plan. And we can rest in that.

On a personal note, I want to personally thank each and every one of you for the respect you had for my wife and I. Thank you for showing Christ is all your actions. I really wish I could somehow put into words exactly how much you impacted my life. But I think you already know. We love each and every one of you and we are praying that above your success, you will always walk with God.   

Thank you again for your friendship ~ Josh

 

Always remember this: What you do for yourself will only last for this life, What you do for God will last for eternity.  Stay faithful to Him as He is to you, stand firm, solid, never wavering no matter how rough the waters. God is in control of all things, even when we dont think He is. He knows. 

 

Oh yea! And when it comes time for your  Engagements.. and Weddings... and babys.... Gimme a call!