Katy's Grad Session | Palma Sola Botanical Park in Bradenton, Florida

I haven’t been to very many states, but this year I got to check Florida off the list when I visited my good friend Katy! I had the most amazing time eating great food, visiting beautiful beaches, swimming in bright blue water (that’s not dark and freezing cold like the Puget Sound here in Washington), and of course enjoying the sun in none other than the Sunshine State. What made the trip even better was getting to take Katy’s grad photos! A few years ago, I photographed Katy’s younger sister Kristen when she graduated from UW, and this time it was Katy’s turn! She completed her master’s degree from the University of Denver and I felt so honored to be her photographer.

Katy has experience working in the mental health field and plans to eventually open her own private therapy practice for kids. She’s easy-going, genuine, kind and a great listener — I just know she’ll be a great therapist!

We went to Palma Sola Botanical Park in Bradenton for the session and I seriously could have spent all day there taking pictures (minus the bugs). The plants in Florida are so colorful and vibrant! As a Washingtonian who prefers bright colors over dark earth tones any day, I was in love! The bright foliage made for a stunning backdrop. I had such a hard time narrowing down my favorites to share on the blog.

We wrapped up the session absolutely covered in bug bites (despite all the bug spray we covered ourselves in), but still having the best time! I love getting to work with clients and it’s all the more special when the client is a friend.

Katy, I’m SO incredibly happy for you and am grateful to have you as a friend! Thanks for being an amazing host/Florida tour guide and for trusting me to take your grad photos. You’re seriously the best!!!

Hugs,
Monica