This year, I finally did the thing that scared me.
Each year, photographers from across the country submit their best work from the last three senior classes to the Senior Style Guide Hot 100—images judged by industry professionals Valerie Shannon, Shawna Tomren, and Max Lee.
This magazine represents thousands of images, countless hours, late nights, big dreams, and brave submissions. It represents photographers who dared to show up, to be seen, and to grow.
Last year, I had a folder ready on my desk.
And if I’m being honest… I was too afraid to enter.
Putting your work in front of other professionals for critique is vulnerable. It’s intimidating. It’s risky. But this year, I decided fear didn’t get to make the call. I submitted my work and told myself to let the chips fall where they may.
When the results came in, my hands actually shook reading them.
Out of 8,559 images submitted, one of mine placed Top 10 in the Urban category (which y’all know is my absolute LOVE to shoot), and another placed Top 100 in the Community Choice category.
No matter the outcome, I’m proud of myself for taking the leap—but I’m especially proud of these two sessions:
- Ella Foster’s session in Printer’s Alley, earning Top 10 Urban
- Ava Childress’s rooftop image, earning Top 100 Community Choice
This experience reminded me that growth doesn’t always come from winning—it comes from being brave enough to try. From choosing courage over comfort. From showing up even when your voice shakes.
And today, I’m really proud of that version of me.
