Brianna {Portrait of a Young Woman}

When I was first teaching, I met a little girl named Brianna.  She was 5 and had more fire and attitude than anyone I'd ever met.  I loved her instantly.  Teachers always wonder what happens to their students.  Where they go.  Who they become.  We have our own theories, you know, and they usually remain just that.  Theories, because once the kids are out the door, they're gone.  But not this one.  She stayed around, and it's been a privilege to watch her grow into a young woman, facing the world with brilliance, bravery and beauty.  It's been 15 years since I first met her, and she is as much and more as she was when I first fell in love with her.  We got together for a couple of sessions this week to celebrate her birthday.  So, I'd like to introduce you to one of my oldest friends, Brianna.

Eyelash Envy....Party of One....

For the second part of our session, we met at her dad's construction yard.  The hard lines and angles there were the perfect backdrop for the more dramatic work that we wanted to do.

Don't get me wrong, though...there was a softer side to all the drama.

We found this amazing, vintage-looking green bookshelf in the warehouse.  He told us it came with the place when he bought it, and he'd never really known what to do with it.  It may not be around for long, though.  She and I both really loved it!

Hands down, this is absolutely my favorite shot from the entire session! B-E-A-U-tiful...with an added side of DRAMA!

Bri, it's been a privilege and a pleasure to watch you develop into such a wonderfully strong young woman.  

Everyone has a talent.  What is rare is the courage to follow the talent to the place it leads

                                                                                                        ~Erica Jong

Be courageous.  Be brilliant.  Be beautiful.  Be brave.  Be everything you want to be!  With much love on your 21st year!!