A boy, his girl... a ball and his bike...

When Julie Hoskey called to set up her son's senior session she asked if it was necessary.

I told her no.

The question was whether or not MOM had to be there for the actual taking of the photographs.

While most senior guys might relish the idea of not having mom there for the session, I told Julie that in most cases, while we encourage mom to enjoy the day with us, it's not mandatory.

Sometimes it's nice to have another set of eyes... set of hands to help out.   But for the most part, after 3500 seniors or so, "flying solo" on occasion is no big deal... especially with the fellas, due to their usual lower maintenance.

So, I was counting on Garrett to be one such soloist, but as it turned out... he brought help.

The strappin' South Tama offensive tackle and defensive lineman brought in a special guest with him.   I asked if it was his girlfriend... I was quickly corrected after they glanced at each other.

"We're friends."

Friends it is, then.   Regardless, Ericka Dunning was making a return trip to Stewart Photography to be my right hand gal for the morning... and Garrett's moral support, at the very least.

Ericka had been in last winter when the STC's winter cheer squads were in the house for their team photographs, so she kinda knew her way around... but as she quickly found out... today was a much more extensive deal.

So, there we were... the photographer and the two young... ummmm... friends.   We immediately busted out of the studio and drove north of Toledo to Garrett's home (where I had visited a couple years back for sister Molly's session).  I had been warned that we were gonna photograph Garrett's favorite toy there... his motorcycle.  I held him off as long as I could (as I often do when senior guys, to keep their attention of course!)

After scaling some bridges and then taking advantage of the family pond and out buildings, it was finally time to get out his bike.   It's funny how you seen a senior guy's mood instantly change when they finally get to do what THEY really want (rather than taking images that are perceived to be "just for mom.").

Ericka and I shook our heads a bit watching Garrett tear off on the bike to take it down to the pond... knowing full well he was now in his Honda comfort zone.

I had asked Garrett back at the studio what he wanted to do for college.  He very matter-of-factly told me that he wasn't sure, because unfortunately, they don't let you major in motocross.  ;)

With Ericka by my side with her trusty auxiliary strobe, we covered that motorcycle like a blanket and then it was back to the studio to get one more thing done.

His football collage.

Judging from the amount of pigskin talk that Ericka was able to endure on that day, I would say that Miss Dunning is a keeper.   Not surprisingly, facebook informs me that on Garrett's birthday a couple of weeks ago... the on-again-off-again couple... are evidently ON again.... which makes me glad to see.

Thanks for the loyalty, Team Hoskey.  It was great to see the homestead again... and special thanks and congratulations to Ericka and her "friend!"  :)