Elm Photography

Asahi | Class of 2026 | Graduate Session

Who knew Lompoc High School could look this good? Well, Asahi certainly helped. Her bright smile, kind personality, and joyful energy made this graduate session one I'll always remember.

Today is her last day in Lompoc before she heads home to Japan, and I kept thinking the same thing throughout her session: "What a brave girl." I suppose it makes perfect sense she was a BRAVE this year. I know, cringe mom moment there. Leaving your family, your friends, your language, and everything familiar to spend an entire school year in another country isn't something most people would ever do. Yet she embraced the experience with so much grace, kindness, and curiosity. She got to experience all the fun of an American senior year, and I feel so honored that I could help document this chapter before she heads home.

Thankfully the Lompoc High campus was open, so we were able to photograph her session right at the school. Years from now, she'll have these photographs to remember not only her graduation, but this incredible season of life spent halfway around the world.

Good luck, Asahi. Thank you for letting me be a small part of your American adventure. Wishing you safe travels and all the best as you head home.

Marianne & Rianna Best Friend Graduate Session

You know, having a mom as a photographer is actually pretty cool. At least I like to think so. My kid has had photos taken through all the big moments, big events, big sports seasons, and all the milestones along the way.

Friday, these two girls, along with hundreds more, graduate from high school.

They’ve been friends since 3rd grade, and as a mom, there’s something really special about seeing a friendship last through all the awkward stages, growing pains, school drama, and life changes that come with growing up. I pray Marianne and Rianna stay friends for a very long time.

Watching them go from little girls to young women has been equal parts beautiful and bittersweet.

I’m so proud of these two for making it to this milestone. Graduation is a huge accomplishment, and I know there are so many parents this week sitting in their feelings a little bit too.

Ellie Newborn Session

Last Tuesday I had the pleasure of hanging out with my nephew and meeting their newest addition, little Ellie. I was there to meet Ellie, but I was completely entertained by Emma, who has already fully stepped into her role as best big sister.

I’ll be honest, toddlers are usually very interested in my camera. They want to know what it’s doing, if we’re almost done, and whether snacks are involved. They are rarely interested in me.

But the last few years, that’s changed a little.

And Emma? She just wanted to hang out with me all night.

Honestly, it made my whole evening. She showed me every toy, every trick, and every important toddler detail while Ellie was being fed, soothed, rocked, cuddled, and lovingly convinced that sleep was a good idea.

Ellie disagreed.

She had absolutely no interest in sleeping. She wanted to know what was happening at all times, which honestly felt fair considering there was a whole production crew standing around her with cameras and lights.

But somewhere between the toddler tours, the baby snuggles, and all the beautiful chaos that comes with bringing home someone brand new, we captured this sweet little season exactly as it is.

And that’s always my favorite part.