Meet Braeden, son to Brett & Heather Dire, older brother to Dillon, Riley, and Nolan, and in the graduating class of 2023 at Fife High School. I’m lucky to say Heather is one of my closest friends & was beyond excited when she reached out to say that it was time to schedule Braeden’s senior pictures. I cannot wait to share a bit more about this incredible young man!

After graduation, Braeden plans to attend trade school to become an electrician. He’s a natural with his hands and enjoys restoring old cars with his grandpa. It’s in his grandpa’s shop where he learned welding, and dedicates every afternoon to developing his craft as a specialty welder. I know without a shadow of doubt that his dedication and attention to detail will take him far in his future career and life.

The Dires live in Fife, but spend as much free time in their second home in Upper Kittitas county as possible as a family. This is where their shared love for the outdoors has forged a family bond like no other. Where they spent summers growing up riding bikes & visiting Basecamp Books and Bites daily. Naturally, this is where Heather & Braeden wanted his Senior Pictures taken. It’s the place where they get to recharge and explore all of the beauty that PNW has to offer.

Class of 2023 Senior Pictures

Family and faith are Braeden’s North Star. He exudes empathy & compassion and naturally extends grace to every being he encounters. From faithfully serving in his community, to helping with his brother, who is on the spectrum, to dropping everything to help a stranded motorist, he will do everything within his power to help those in need. He’s truly one of the kindest young men I’ve ever met.

“Braeden is helpful and kind, Braden will sacrifice going out with his friends for a family movie night. He loves being with his family and his dogs.”

Heather, mom

Including pets during Senior Photos

During our time planning for his Senior Pictures, we determined that what mattered most to Braeden & his parents is capturing his love for the outdoors & restoration, and his trusted confidants, his three Burnese Mountain dogs. They are his best way to start his day and his favorite goodnight at the end of the day. They sure do love him just as much as he loves them!

When he’s not busy with school, welding, or serving in his community, Braeden loves anything involving exploring the PNW & beyond. From mountain biking and snowmobiling, to hiking and finding new trails, he’s a true outdoorsman and dreams of seeing all of the sights and new experiences the world has to offer. If asked, he’ll tell you the best place to visit is Mammoth Rock. It’s one of his favorite parks to go hiking & snowmobiling in.

“His dad and I are so proud of the young man that Braeden is becoming and can’t wait to see what the future holds for him.”

Between having such incredible role models for parents, his life experiences, and his faith, Braeden will continue to make a positive impact on all who meet him. I already can’t wait to hear all about his future adventures from Heather!

The Dire family invested in my most exclusive senior portraits package. This includes a gorgeous, custom 12×12 heirloom album and a wall art trio of 16×16 portraits. I just know that Braeden’s senior photos album will stack beautifully with their album from 2019. All too soon, we’ll add more albums from the younger brother’s senior photos!

If you are looking for a photographer for your Class of 2023 Senior Pictures, click here.