From the Classroom to the Camera:
How My Years as a Catholic School Teacher Shaped My Photography
For twelve years, I dedicated my life to teaching in Catholic schools. It was more than just a job—it was a calling. I stayed because I knew that within the system, marginalized children needed at least one adult who truly saw them, loved them, and stood up for them. Now, as a Seattle family and high school senior photographer, that same passion drives me to create safe, joyful spaces where every client feels seen, valued, and celebrated.
Teaching in the Catholic School System
My journey into Catholic education began during my time at Gonzaga University. I converted to Catholicism at 23, feeling drawn to the community and values I encountered. When I pursued my Master's in Education, it felt natural to complete my student teaching in a Catholic school, and from there, I stayed. But as the years passed, I began to see the disconnect between the Church's teachings and the love and acceptance I wanted to foster in my classroom.
I became an advocate for my students—especially those who felt othered by the institution. LGBT+ students, students of color, and those from non-traditional families needed someone in their corner, and I made sure my classroom was a place where they felt safe. That advocacy extended beyond the classroom. I marched in protests, attended rallies, and spoke out against injustice, even when it came at a personal cost.
How Teaching Made Me a Better Photographer
My years as a teacher in Seattle and the Eastside gave me an unparalleled ability to connect with young people. I understand how to talk to kids of all ages, how to engage them, and most importantly, how to make them feel comfortable being themselves in front of the camera.
When I photograph high school seniors, I can sense their hesitations. I know how to turn a reluctant teen into an engaged participant—sometimes, all it takes is a simple, honest conversation like the one I had with an 8th-grade boy who didn’t want to be at his family session. By leveling with him and explaining how much the photos meant to his mom, I was able to shift his energy, and the session turned out beautifully.
With families, I recognize when young children need a break, when a game will lighten the mood, and how to capture those in-between moments of genuine connection. My ability to read people allows me to create natural, joyful images that reflect the real love within a family.
Advocacy Through Photography
Just as I fought for my students in the classroom, I use my photography to continue advocating for inclusivity and love. Whether I’m photographing a same-sex couple’s elopement in Seattle, a multigenerational family session, or a high school senior expressing their true identity, my goal is always to highlight the beauty in every individual.
Parents looking for a Seattle senior photographer or family photographer on the Eastside should know that when they book with me, they’re getting more than just beautiful images. They’re getting someone who sees their children for who they are, celebrates them, and ensures that their personalities shine through in every photo.
Why This Matters for Your Family and Senior Portraits
If you’re searching for a photographer in the Seattle area, or east of Lake Washington, who understands how to connect with kids, teens, and families—someone who will make your child feel comfortable, confident, and truly seen—I would love to work with you. Whether it’s capturing the excitement of a high school senior preparing for their next chapter or the warmth of a family embracing their love and connection, I am here to tell your story through my lens.
Let’s create something beautiful together. Contact me today to book your session! Still have questions? Learn more about my journey and passion for photography on my About Me page.
