RAD pixels photography

As I type this, my husband sits in his man cave, complete with huge white board, two monitors, and a folding table as a desk, studying away for his last final on Thursday.  This past Saturday, he was at work completing his typical 24 hour shift, studying between calls.  On Sunday, he came home and studied, but he managed to make it outside with his notes for a little while.  Monday was work, busy as usual with barely time to study as diligently as he would want.  Today was a final.  He got home around 8:45, studied, went to take the test, completed a few other last minute things on campus before graduation on Saturday, came home and shut himself into his man cave.  Tomorrow, he works until 8 AM Thursday.  After his shift, he has to book it to school to complete his last final before taking off to Knoxville to complete his super drill weekend.  I'll see him Sunday evening. This has been Randy's life for the past few years.  He uses all of hi...

These two might be twins, but they couldn't be any more different.  One of my favorite things to see is their reactions when I asked them to "love each."  Allie seems to squirm in the opposite direction, making a slightly unpleasant face; whereas Philip generously opens his arms, moving closer to her with a wide smile.  They like each other.  They really do. These two have shared many milestones together while growing up.  Now, they'll share one more together as they graduate in just a few short weeks.  After that, their paths lead them in separate directions:  Philip to North Carolina and Allie to Illinois.  States away, pursuing different dreams and aspirations, discovering new passions and talents. Allie and Philip are super smart, charismatic teens with the world at their feet.  I'm confident those big universities are getting the best with these two.  Undoubtedly, they will be success stories that their parents will lovingly bra...

It's that time of year again!  Graduation!  I love shooting cap & gown photos because it is such an exciting time.  While classes are not finished yet, students are giddy and relieved the end is near. I enjoyed photographing Bree last summer, so I was excited to get together with her again. This girl is one of a kind!  She says what she means and she means what she says.  I can accept and appreciate that.  I sure hope that she always uses that special spunk of hers because it's charming, funny, and real. This girl was willing to risk her life tonight climbing up onto the roof, but it was totally her idea.  That's another thing about Bree - she is brave and adventurous.  Don't expect her to back down from anything.  And if you don't laugh while you are with her, then something is wrong with you. Here's to Bree and the last few weeks of her high school career.  Bree, may the wrong rise to meet you!  Hopefully, it can keep up...

Well, here I am posting about yet another former student graduating from college. I can't say enough about sweet Rachel.  Knowing her as a 16 year old, I was impressed by her thoroughness when completing assignments.  I never had to wonder if her work would ever get submitted, and I never questioned if she had really done her best.  Rachel was the perfect student:   always striving to do better, working ahead instead of always trying to keep up, seeking opportunities to challenge herself, helping others no matter their situation. I remember she was victim to Mr. Anderson's "Gas Attack" WWI challenge; she didn't have her gas mask while cheering at a ballgame. I also remember exactly why I gave her a Dog Dollar that one time.  I know she remembers why, too!  I was so proud to see her release anger and frustration!  Sorry, folks.  That's an inside story only a few people know, but it's still one of my fondest memories with Rachel. I forgot to...

I'm incredibly happy and honored to post this update.  Meet Morgan.  UT's School of Audiology's most recent candidate.  I am so proud of this girl and everything she has overcome to be standing right here in this moment.  In all reality, no one should be surprised of everything that Morgan is accomplishing.  She is one of the most driven young ladies I have ever met.   Morgan came into my life years ago, and little did I know, she would become someone who has impacted my life much more than I could have ever impacted hers.  This little lady, who most certainly has not lost the cheerleader posing capabilities, sat in my freshman English class back in Morristown, back when I still had no idea what I was doing as a second year teacher.  I failed this young lady over and over.  Fast forward to just a few months ago when I actively searched for Morgan on Facebook.  For some reason, I needed to know what had become of her.  She has b...