There are some days it feels like my teenage years were thousands of years ago, but then there are times where it feels like those wonderful carefree days of being in high school were just yesterday! But what I know today, that I didn’t realize when I was 16, is that those precious childhood years growing up will pass you by in a blink so it’s important to embrace every step of youth along the way. (I miss you cross colors and Aqua Net hairspray, LOL!!!)

When I met up with Ana for a special portrait session as she approached her 16th birthday, hearing her joyous giggles and seeing her endearing nervousness, took me back to my teenage years — the giddiness of new experiences, worry of having your parents watching you from a far, and excitement over wearing a beautiful new dress and heels for photos — it was a nostalgic afternoon for me and wonderful to be in the presence of such a smart young woman with so much life and promise ahead of her!

Here are a few of my favorite images from Ana’s Sweet 16 portrait session …

I adore Ana’s fabulous dress, it truly highlighted her bright and beautiful aura in every single image.

Before her session ended, I wanted to make sure and capture at least a few photographs of Ana + her sweet Dad, who kept his distance during the shoot to help make her more comfortable and less nervous. Once they reconnected, it was easy to see where she got her joy for life and laughter from 🙂 I love this fun moment between these two!

Happy Sweet 16 Ana! I hope this year is just the start of many wonderful years to come 🙂