I remember the days when I was in high school. Those great 'know it all' years, then you get a little older and realize you know absolutely nothing.
That wasn't the case with Marisol. She's a senior in high school, graduating from East River. I met her and her mom while photographing her for her senior photos. Sol liked the way I payed attention to detail, and for those that know me...I'm actually not a very detailed oriented person, except when it comes to photography and work. Sol told me that her daughter was having her Sweet 17 and asked if I would be able to photograph it. I would like to tell you that I said "Absolutely, sounds lovely" but I probably said something along the lines of "Duh! Sounds awesome!" We exchanged our contact information and I was back to the daily work grind.
Sol and I got in contact later on in the week and we set up a session so I could print out a big poster of Marisol and her friends and family could sign it. I decided on Dickson Azalea Park because it's freakin' beautiful. C'mon, trees, bridges, those adorable light posts, and for those of you who like being in nature, this is prime date day picnic material. She obviously #slayed (I'm cool now) her session with grace and a little bit of sass, the two ingredients necessary for any photo session. My good friend and pro printer helped me get a 20x30 print of ^ to Sol so they could use it for the night of the Sweet 16.
I arrived at The Crystal Ballroom in Casselberry (Amazing venue and wonderful staff) early on Marisol's big day to set up lighting and and check out the scene. This girl had an old school limo parked out front and another limo that actually brought her to the location. I wish I could have gotten a ride.
Marisol's big enterence!
The night was filled with laughter, tears of joy, dancing, an epic entrance, and teenagers talking about whatever teenagers talk about. You know, bae, Desiigner, and Instagram #Dab.
Marisol is an amazing individual. She's smart, talented (for real, you should hear this girl sing!), and beautiful. I'm telliing you, she's going places. The looks she was receiving from her family could bring a British Royal Guard to tears. Ya'll know, the ones that never move or show emotion.
Marisol, it was an honor and a pleasure to be apart of your Sweet 17, and I thank you very much for letting me capture it.
Marisol and her father dancing
Shout out to Bori Boy for providing entertainment the entire ngiht and to The Crystal Ballroom staff for saving me a piece of cake :)
