When High School Ends

Campbell River Grads
Girlfriends.

I’m not talking about the kind that come and go, the kind that you’re kinda/sorta friends with… I’m talking about the kind of friends that you’ll hold a certain bond with until, forever.

For my lil sisters grad present I couldn’t think of anything better than to put Kaylee and her pals in their grad dresses and let them loose in a field! I had a vision of just that a few years ago, and thought it would be a perfect way to commemorate the beauty of their friendship, and to wrap up their high school days together.

However, I didn’t realize that I was going to well up with tears while watching them all out there in the field, laughing, twirling, hugging, and being 18. It was for a number or reasons but mainly because I can relate, we all can… when something we love… comes to an end. With everything in life being so impermanent, I find it incredibly beautiful to think that these girls, bursting with youth and joy, and excitement for what their futures hold, will be able to look back on these photos one day… and think about what an incredible time in their lives it was.

What I was witnessing through my camera lens last Sunday night, was that high school had just ended for these girls, who have grown up together, who have shared ice cream and tears together. They have endured memorable teachers, hysterically funny moments, concerts, and even formed an undefeated dodge ball team (well ok not undefeated). These girls have curled each others hair, spent hours obsessing about relationships (with fellas, with parents, with teachers) they’ve comforted each other during times of loss, and sadness. They’ve been each others best friends since grade seven… and now, high school is over. Just like they never thought it would be.

So with happy/sad tears in my eyes, I photographed them being friends, none really knowing where their lives will take them, or how near or far away. I saw them being so beautifully pure, and only hope that they are able to bring that same joy and passion for life with them always.

Ladies, may you always carry sunshine right along with you. I wish you nothing but joy.
Campbell River Grads jumping in field


OH! The Places You’ll Go!!!

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10 Responses to “When High School Ends”

  1. Tanya Says:

    I love the colors! Great idea Erin! Beautiful pictures.. again.

  2. Jo-Ann (Ma) Says:

    aw Erin …. what can a momma say?

  3. Jeremy Latham Says:

    Good thinkin’ Erin! Great shots!

  4. Tessa Says:

    Erin these pictures are absolutly amazing!
    Thankyou so much :)

  5. Hally Bell Says:

    Came across your page. These pictures are beyond gorgeous. Its a great thing youre doing….

  6. deanna Says:

    ahhh what a super cool big sister you are…you brought me back to grade 12!
    i LOVE the pic of the bottoms of dresses and feet on the log..one of my all time favorites of yours..very nice

  7. Laura Says:

    Amazing Erin, I’ve always been a huge fan of your work… but you’ve outdone yourself here! Maybe it’s because I know most of the girls…. but the love and friendship they have for one another shows in every picture, a great idea by an amazing photographer :)! Can’t wait for ball season………… !

  8. Kaylee Wallis Says:

    My Amazing Sister!
    These pictures truly are amazing! I know that everyone truly truly appriciates what you did for us… cuz Erin these pictures will remind us over the years of our incredible friendship with eachother.
    I absolutely could not be happier with these pictures Erin! I love you much’os much’os!
    Love you baby sis<3

  9. Kim Says:

    brilliant vision. I was planning a senior shots campaign this year for my cousins graduating class…you have affirmed that it is worth trying!! first shot is my favorite!

  10. Caitlyn McCartney Says:

    Erin Wallis - My Love !
    Your incredible ! I love what these photos represent
    and the fact that you took them for us makes them
    even better ! Thank you & Love you !

    Erin Wallis Photography = Love

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