The only word to describe Ryan's sunset senior photo session at Palmer Park in Colorado Springs is INCREDIBLE.
When we met up, Some thick storm clouds had gathered over the mountains and pushed eastward, creating a duller evening than I had hoped for for Ryan. They were not so thick that some evening light didn't come through, thankfully, but the last 10 to 15 minutes of the session, all of a sudden the sun just below the horizon absolutely illuminated all of those clouds in a dazzling array of color that left Ryan and I awestruck. (Tip: this is why I always hope for at least SOME clouds at your photo session!) We worked quickly to get as many photos done as possible in that window of glorious color, because with the sun already down, those colors fade just as quickly as they arrive. As a photographer, it's sunsets like these I always hope for and pray for my clients!
Ryan is another former band student of mine from my days teaching middle school. (Fun fact: I also taught his older brother for one year my first year teaching!) So to have such an amazing sunset for him was extra special! I've watched Ryan grow from a quiet, unassuming young middle schooler into a kind, intelligent, and involved young man. He's always been mature for his years, and I've always known he was capable of a lot more than he demonstrated at times. He's a young man of solid character and what a treat it was when he asked me to do his senior photos. Ryan has continued participating in band and music, along with wrestling, football, and jiu jitsu. He is very involved in school activities from dances to homecoming activities to spirit weeks and more. He has always been a leader, and I have no doubt that when he heads off to college next fall, he'll set an example to those around him.
Ryan has ambitious plans to attend college (probably CU Boulder) and focus on either pre-med or biomedical engineering. He also has hopes of doing an exchange program with a school in South Korea, to learn more about one of the cultures he comes from. Ryan told me he is very close with his grandmother, who moved to the US many years ago from South Korea and sparked his interest in this part of his heritage.
Ryan, thank you so much for trusting me with your senior photos, and allowing me to participate in the special time in your life. I'm so proud of you, and proud to know you, and I know you are headed for greatness. I can't wait to see your future unfold!
