One of the biggest compliments a Senior Photographer can receive is photographing multiple siblings in a family. I first met the Val & Sam Ward, parents of Dominick Johnson, back in 2019. Val hired me for her older daughter’s senior portraits and I was excited when she reached out again to book Dominick’s senior photos with me for their 2023 graduate!

Today, I’m happy to feature Senior Varsity Star Athlete Dominick Johnson, at CERHS in the graduating Class of 2023.

Varsity Jerseys are a great idea for seniors that played sports in high school

Coming in at 6’7, Dominick dominates the basketball court as a power forward in both AAU/Club Basketball and the varsity team at CERHS. Last year, he impressively led in blocks & I’m sure he’s set to break records in his final high school seasons! He’s dedicated to growing his skills & strength and is committed to specialized jump training with Coach Kyle Crandall & Rick Coleman, as well as college training with Dom Hunter.

Val, Dominick’s mom, was his very first basketball coach at just 4 years old and is his biggest fan now. Including Dominick’s sports gear into his senior session was only natural. It’s been a huge part of their family all these years! I can only imagine how precious Dominick’s 4 year old basketball pictures are next to one of his senior photos!

Senior Portraits should be more than just a snapshot

In the Spring, Dominick will play his final varsity baseball season, as well! He plays outfield, but looks forward to take on a closing position on the mound. He’s one incredible athlete and I know his parents will miss watching his high school games.

Growing up in sports has taught Dominick an incredibly valuable lesson young. He understands the value of mentors and coaches and is able to take the feedback of a good teacher or coach and see results. While chatting, Dominick described Chris Hamel as his most influential teacher of his high school career. He said he’s “helpful, kind, and there’s really nothing negative I could say about Hamel. He really cares about his students” and goes on to say his baseball & weight training coach, Mike Halverson is his most influential coach. “I really appreciate the respect and dedication that he shows to his players which in turn makes us want to work harder for him.”

After graduation, Dominick hopes to play basketball in college and study math. His ultimate end goal is to follow in his dad, Sam’s, footsteps and become a Licensed Professional Land Surveyor. During the summers, Dominick interns a long 60 hours per week as a field land surveyor and travels statewide to survey land, farms, dams, driveways, power poles, runways, etc. He’s got great experience in the field already and looks forward to building on his knowledge!

When this hard working young man isn’t busy with sports and work, he’s a through and through PNW guy. He enjoys fishing, shed hunting, and spending time with his family & friends. He’s a dependable, remarkable guy and it was such a pleasure working with him! And even better to catch up with Val & Sam!

As a Cle Elum & Ellensburg area Senior Photographer for the upcoming graduating class of 2023, I always suggest thinking ahead for your next senior in line. Ideal booking time for senior photos is in the Spring time of Junior year. This gives us ample time to plan out the senior portrait package of your dreams.

Senior Photographer for Guys Graduating in 2023