Maria traveled all the way from a small town in Norway to Minnesota for the year to participate in a foreign exchange program. Her host mom happens to be a good friend of mine and connected Maria with me so she could experience the American tradition of Senior Portraits.
Based on the portraits you’d never be able to tell, but Maria has never had her portrait taken by anyone other than her father! She was a natural in front of the camera and such a blast to hang out with.
For her portraits, she visited my home location in Downtown Minneapolis where I introduced her to the Stone Arch Bridge, the Guthrie, and my rooftop with a great view of the Minneapolis skyline.
I couldn’t help but gush over how absolutely beautiful she is - I mean, those eyes, right? They LITERALLY twinkle!
When we made our way to the Stone Arch Bridge, she changed into a sweater her grandmother hand knit for her and told me stories of her hometown and her adjustment to the American lifestyle.
Her host family has become an extension of her family back home. She’s bonded especially closely with her host sister and brother, one of which was able to tag along for the session (pictured below)!
Later that night we went back to her host home so we could have dinner and get some photos with her two new favorite dogs, Marley and Charlie. This is especially fitting as Maria thinks she wants to continue her education in veterinary medicine.
It was such an honor to meet this sweet girl and take her portraits for her senior year of high school. Welcome to America lovely Maria, best of luck to you in your studies and time here!
