Ana is graduating from Tarleton State University, and totally deserves the Celebration Session she booked for herself. But this celebration was about more than her accomplishment… it was about being one step closer to the goal she has, and providing the best possible life for her sweet daughter Ava.
I have to say, I really enjoyed my time with these gorgeous girls. The bond between them is so amazing to see. They truly are a team, and the very best of friends. I know that as Ava grows up, she’ll appreciate more and more the sacrifices her mom is making to build them a rock-solid future.
As Ana’s going on to pursue her Masters degree, and then her Ph.D., I’m sure there will be many more reasons to celebrate in the future. I look forward to seeing everything these girls are going to accomplish!
Here are my favorite shots from the afternoon:
Kudos to Ana for still looking sassy while standing in full graduate gear on a busy street in the middle of town. 
Between the must-have traditional shots and Ana’s solo portraits, we took a chance to get some images of Mom & Daughter together in matching TSU t-shirts.
Just a quick note, while it’s relevant: There’s been some confusion about McGowan Images and children’s portraiture. It’s probably my fault… we don’t address it directly on the website and I haven’t been really clear.
We take family sessions, and celebration portraits like these, on a case-by-case basis. I’m a firm believer that if you specialize in everything, you actually specialize in nothing. So we put our efforts mostly into weddings, where I feel like we really excel. During certain times of the year (like now) we’ve got a little extra room in the schedule for other things, and we’ve had overwhelmingly fantastic experiences with the kiddos who’ve participated in our family sessions in the past!
Long story short, I don’t think everyone’s cut out to do children’s portraiture, just like I don’t think everyone who can afford a DSLR should be a wedding photographer. When I get inquiries about children’s portraits, I have a list of really fantastic DFW photogs that I recommend. And when I get calls for sessions like Ana & Ava’s, or other family sessions, I make sure I think I’ll gel with everyone’s personalities, then we have a blast!
It helps that (with a few exceptions ) we’ve been lucky to work with absolute angels for children. I mean, seriously… Ava is such a doll, and so well-behaved. Taking these pictures renewed my excitement for having a little girly-girl running around the house.
I’m apparently really feelin’ the black & white today… what do you guys think?
The glow in her hair in these next ones just kill me. Pantene commercial much? And Ana was talkin’ the whole time about what a terrible model she was. Psh… every client should be so easy!
And finally, as usual, my very favorite!
Congratulations, Ana! You and Ava are completely awesome, and I can’t wait to see what’s in store for you next. Hit me up again when you finish that Masters!
by Chelsea
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