Love is a journey, and for Mark and Laura Shook, that journey has spanned four incredible decades. As the founders of Community of Faith, their lives have been dedicated to faith, service, and a deep love for one another. I recently had the privilege of capturing their portraits, and the experience was nothing short of inspiring.
The Vision: Love and Relationships Before the session, I had a conversation with Laura about her vision for their portraits. She expressed that she wanted the images to reflect love and relationships—something that has been at the heart of their 40-year marriage. From the moment we first started talking, it was clear that their bond was built on laughter, understanding, and unwavering support. A Fun-Loving Connection Mark and Laura brought an energy to the session that was both heartwarming and uplifting. Their playful banter and affectionate glances spoke volumes about the depth of their relationship. Photographing them felt like capturing a beautiful story—one of commitment, faith, and resilience. Featured in Living Magazine Their story of love and dedication doesn’t just shine through in their portraits—it’s also been featured in Living Magazine! There’s an entire article dedicated to making marriage work, where they share insights on building a strong and lasting relationship. Click here to read the full interview. Laura Shook: Author and Cancer Survivor During our session, I also learned that Laura is an accomplished author. She has published several books, one of which she graciously gifted me—a powerful memoir about her journey to overcoming cancer. Her story is one of strength and perseverance, adding yet another layer of admiration to this incredible couple. Timeless Portraits, Timeless Love It was an honor to capture Mark and Laura’s portraits and celebrate their milestone anniversary through photography. Their love is a testament to the beauty of commitment and faith, and I am grateful to have played a small role in preserving their legacy through portraits. Are you looking to capture the love and connection in your own relationship? Let’s create something timeless together. Sonia Ahmad, Craftsman, CPP.
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Your headshot is often the first impression you make in today’s digital world. Whether it’s on LinkedIn, your business website, or social media, that small image speaks volumes about your professionalism, credibility, and personal brand. But here’s the tough question—could your headshot be holding you back?
1. A Poor Headshot Can Undermine Your Credibility A blurry, outdated, or poorly lit photo can send the wrong message. Imagine a potential client searching for your services online. They find your profile, but instead of a polished, professional image, they see a selfie from five years ago. Instantly, doubts creep in: Are you detail-oriented? Do you invest in your business? First impressions matter, and an unprofessional headshot can cost you trust—and ultimately, opportunities. 2. No Headshot? You Might As Well Be Invisible If you don’t have a headshot at all, you’re missing a huge opportunity to connect. People trust faces, not blank avatars or logos. Studies show that profiles with professional photos receive significantly more engagement than those without. If your competitors have high-quality headshots and you don’t, guess who’s making a stronger impact? 3. DIY and Stock Photos Don’t Build Trust Some professionals rely on stock images or AI-generated avatars to represent their brand. While these might look polished, they don’t establish authenticity. Clients and employers want to see you—the real person they’ll be working with. A professional headshot conveys confidence, approachability, and trustworthiness in a way that generic images never can. 4. A High-Quality Headshot Helps You Stand Out In competitive industries, standing out is crucial. A well-crafted headshot gives you a distinct presence and makes you more memorable. Whether you're a business owner, consultant, or job seeker, a professional portrait signals that you take yourself—and your career—seriously. Invest in a Headshot That Works for You Your headshot isn’t just a photo—it’s a powerful marketing tool. If you’re serious about making a strong impression, investing in a professional headshot is one of the simplest yet most effective steps you can take. At Enjoy the Moment Portraits, we specialize in creating headshots that showcase your professionalism and personality. Don’t let an outdated or unprofessional image cost you opportunities. Book your session today and put your best face forward! Ready to upgrade your headshot? Let’s make it happen. Senior portraits have come a long way! Unlike the traditional studio sessions of the past, today’s senior portraits offer a unique opportunity for students to express their personality, passions, and style. Whether they prefer a classic studio setting or an outdoor urban vibe, senior portraits are a lasting keepsake of this special milestone.
With so many options available, planning a session can feel overwhelming. Here are some simple tips to help you and your senior prepare for their portrait session. 1. Know the Yearbook Deadline Many schools have specific deadlines for submitting senior portraits. To avoid last-minute stress, schedule the session well in advance. Since it can take at least two weeks to receive the final images, plan accordingly to ensure you meet any submission requirements. 2. Consider Your Senior’s Schedule High school seniors have busy schedules filled with classes, extra curriculars, and social events. Before booking a session, sit down with your child to find a time that works best. The best lighting for outdoor portraits is just after sunrise or before sunset, but an experienced photographer can make any time of day work. Midday sessions should be avoided if possible, as the lighting can be harsh. 3. Find a Balance Between Preferences You may have a vision for your child’s portraits, but it’s important to involve them in the decision-making process. Most senior sessions include multiple outfit changes, allowing for a mix of classic and personal styles. Encourage your senior to express themselves while also capturing timeless images that you’ll both cherish. 4. Encourage Self-Expression Senior portraits should reflect who your child is at this exciting stage in life. Talk with them about their interests, hobbies, and future aspirations. This will help guide the choice of outfits, props, and locations, resulting in portraits that truly represent them. 5. Choose the Right Photographer Involve your senior in selecting a photographer whose style matches their vision. A great photographer will not only capture beautiful images but also make your child feel comfortable and confident throughout the session. Senior portraits are more than just pictures; they’re a celebration of a major milestone. With a little planning and collaboration, you can ensure that your child’s portraits are a true reflection of their personality and journey. |
AuthorSonia Ahmad, CPP, is an award-winning photographer based in Cypress, TX. She has earned the Photographic Craftsman designation by Professional Photographers of America. She specializes in personal portrait sessions for Seniors, Teens, and tweens, Women's personal branding, mother-and-daughter sessions, Glamour and fashion, and Headshots. See more portrait sessions in the gallery. Archives
May 2025
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