Meet Jessica, a senior at Webster Schroeder High School. She is an absolute delight! I loved getting to know her and photographing her for senior portraits. Jess is involved in a number of things beyond her studies at school. I first met her while photographing musicals at Schroeder. She loves performing, has been a cheerleader for years, and plays Unified Basketball. However, the one thing she loves doing beyond all others is to swing! When I asked where she might like to do her senior pictures, she replied "somewhere on location where there's a swing". Well, we could have gone to a park where there's a playground, but her home made the most sense. They have a beautiful piece of property, with a lovely weeping willow and an awesome swing. She even has a swing in her basement! I love this girl! 

Jessica plans to attend St. John Fisher College in the fall and I wish her all the best for her time there and her future! Thanks to Jessica and her mom for choosing Hayes Photography.

Consider leaving Jess a note of congrats and check out Gigi's Playhouse Rochester

Meet Meredith! This Webster Schroeder senior was a true delight to get to know. Mom informed me during our initial conversation that Meredith has Downs Syndrome and suffered a stroke last year which left her with a fear of strangers. Fortunately, we were able to meet in advance for her to get to know me and to talk about location and clothing. Ultimately, we decided that photographing the session at her home would be the best bet to allow her to feel the most comfortable.

This young lady has so much joy in her heart. To see her hug her "Bear" brought a smile to my face. Mom, dad and sister Katie helped to make our time together go smoothly and I was even able to convince Katie to be in a few shots. When I asked mom what she'd like people to know about Meredith, she said "Where do I begin! She loves family parties, babies and handing out candy to the little kids on Halloween. She has a way of bringing out the best in people and is the most delightful human in the world! I  would have to agree with that sentiment!!!

I wanted to include the following poem because I felt so touched by what it said.

Down Syndrome Creed

My face may be different
But my feelings the same
I laugh and I cry
And I take pride in my gains
I was sent here among you
To teach you to love
As God in the heavens
Looks down from above
To Him I'm no different
His love knows no bounds
It's those here among you
In cities and towns
That judge me by standards
That man has imparted
But this family I've chosen
Will help me get started
For I'm one of the children
So special and few
That came here to learn
The same lessons as you
That love is acceptance
It must come from the heart
We all have the same purpose
Though not the same start
The Lord gave me life
To live and embrace
And I'll do it as you do
But at my own pace

A heartfelt thanks to Meredith and her family for choosing me to photograph her senior portrait session. All the best Meredith!

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