Why This Matters to Me

As a senior photographer, I believe senior portraits can and should make a senior feel fantastic about themselves and their time in front of the camera.

I have photographed enough seniors to know that confidence does not always walk in the door first. Sometimes it shows up slowly. After the first few laughs. After they realize they do not have to know what to do.

That is one of my favorite parts of senior photography.

Not just creating beautiful images, but watching a senior begin to believe:

“Maybe I can do this.” “This was actually fun.”

Who Can Be Nominated?

You can nominate:

• Your own senior
• A friend
• A classmate
• A teammate
• A student
• A neighbor
• A family member
• Someone from your church or community
• Yourself

This is open to Class of 2027 high school seniors in Western PA.

You do not need to share or have a certain story. You do not need to write something dramatic. You simply need to tell me why this senior deserves to be celebrated.

Maybe they have overcome something hard. Maybe they are kind to everyone. Maybe they are the quiet one who does not ask for attention. Maybe they have worked incredibly hard. Maybe their family could use a little extra support this year. Maybe they are always behind the scenes and deserve a moment in the light. Maybe they simply do not realize how worthy they are.

What the Selected Senior Will Receive

One selected senior will receive a complimentary senior portrait experience with Danielle Renae Photography, valued at $1500.

This includes:

• A custom senior portrait session
• Pre-session planning and guidance
• A personalized portrait experience designed with them
• Posing and direction throughout the session
• An online digital gallery of their favorite photos from their session

Nominations are accepted May 12–21, 2026.

How to Nominate a Senior

To nominate a senior, fill out the nomination form and tell me a little about them.

You may nominate someone else, or you may nominate yourself.

Please share why this senior deserves this, what makes them special, and anything you would love me to know about their story.

There are no right or wrong answers. I am simply looking for honest stories about seniors who deserve a chance to feel encouraged, confident, and cared for during this milestone season.

A Note to the Senior Reading This

If you are thinking about nominating yourself but feel unsure, this is your permission.

You do not have to wait for someone else to say you are worthy of being celebrated. You are allowed to want this. You are allowed to step in front of the camera. You are allowed to have senior portraits that feel like you. Even if you are shy. Even if you feel awkward. Even if you do not know what to wear. Even if you have never felt comfortable being photographed before.

You are still worth celebrating.

A Note to the Mom Reading This

If you are the mom of a senior, I want you to know something too.

This is the year of last first days, senior nights, graduation plans, college conversations, cap and gown orders, prom, and all the quiet little moments that remind you how fast it has gone.

Senior portraits are one of the few times during senior year when everything slows down for a little while.

Even if your senior isn't selected, I would love to speak with you about your senior's portraits.

Ready to Nominate a Senior?

Click the button below to tell me about them!