Jacqueline is a dancer. A really really good one. She's been dancing since early childhood and has been in studios and dance teams for just as long. When I asked what her favorite style of dance was, Jacqueline told me lyrical. Awesome! Lyrical is probably one of the most beautiful styles of dance I've ever seen (Just saying.. So You Think You Can Dance gave me my limited dance education, but still!). Sitting in the car as we traveled from spot to spot for this shoot, I listened to Jacqueline and her mother Wendy talk about all the classes this girl takes 6 days a week. Jacqueline dances for a minimum of 4 hours a day, more when there's a competition coming up. She's incredibly sweet and poised and elegant, hates being called Jacki (but would never correct you), and wants to be an elementary school teacher or dance teacher when she graduates. What a pleasure it was to photograph Jacqueline!
I'm not sure that I've ever put up such an nontraditional first photo of a Senior Session; but its art, and I love it. In fact, a few days ago my mom begged me for a copy for her house (NOT kidding, lol). We started our day exploring the Fullerton loop, which is one of my favorite spots to run in Fullerton. In fact, I saw a bridge there on a run a few weeks ago, and because of the rain we had last month and the springtime sun, we had gorgeous spring flowers. I thought the bridge and the blooms would be awesome for this Senior and I'm so so glad we shot here; perfect timing because they don't last more then a few weeks each year. As we explored and played in the loop, we chatted about this and that and had a grand time.
Our next adventure took place at Hillcrest Park. I think the best word that describes Jacqueline is elegant. She's soft spoken and really really sweet, and just has this air of quiet confidence. Hillcrest was a gorgeous backdrop for a gorgeous ballerina! On point, jumping, dancing, and putting on slippers, I documented this little dancer. Then Jacqueline changed into her insanely beautiful designer prom gown and we went nuts all around the mission style buildings and pathways. Jacqueline is exquisite, and I fell absolutely in love with her all natural photo shoot.
I am blessed to know Jacqueline and Wendy and to have been a part of documenting Jacqueline's Senior year!! Blessings as you pursue teaching!!
-Jess
By Jess Spinella