Franceska

Prom night is my busiest day of the year as a high school senior portrait photographer. I usually have at least 12 customers that day, and because of the time constraints imposed by the student's needs, as well as the number of students I have to work in, it's usually a nightmare. There is no time on prom night to be overly creative, or give special attention to this person or that person, although I do try my best.

Two years ago, Franceska Blanding booked me for her prom portraits. On prom night, photographers are often seen as "He's booked? Okay, call the next person.". In short, we aren't very special. So when Franceska called me again the following year, it really made me smile. She'd already had senior portraits taken by another photographer by then, but she was so sweet and so kind that I asked her if maybe after she graduated we could do some pictures just for fun. She said she liked that idea.

After graduation, Franceska wanted more senior portraits than she got in her senior year, and as I had wanted to do hers anyway but missed the chance, I was excited for this! We met, had a great time taking photos in the fall colors, and as she was getting ready to leave, I asked her if we could stay in touch, and maybe do more one day. I told her that often, white students flock to white photographers, and black students to black photographers. It's just how it is. I wanted more "color" in my portfolio, and she said she'd love to help with that.

I put out my hand, she took it, and we shook hands. Then I said "Don't forget me, ok? I promise not to forget you." she smiled and said enthusiastically "I won't! I promise!" Just for a happy thing, I put out my pinky finger, and she smiled again and locked hers with mine. "Pinky promise." we said.

When we locked pinkies, for a moment I looked down at our hands. The contrast of colors of mine and her fingers interlocked was something I had not taken notice of when I had shaken hands with countless people over the years, but this time, I had a moment of "Wow." Just 55 years ago, this moment would have been quite different. Our handshake would have been a forbidden act in the eyes of many; even more so the hug I got before she got into her car.

This beautiful person, with a sweet spirit and kindness that shines outwardly from her heart would have been maginalized by the world around her, even though hers is kind of friendship most people aren't even ready for. Today, I am thankful for her. Thankful that I've made a friend for life. And I'm thankful for the people around me who understand and will appreciate what I'm writing in this post.

Today is a good day. :)