Julian’s Senior Session: Football, Downtown Charm & Exploring Fuquay-Varina

Highschool senior in gray shirt smiles with arms crossed outside a building. A mural of a tiger and text "THE BENG" are visible behind him. Photography by Makana Photography, a senior portrait photography serving Pinehurst, Southern Pines, aberdeen, carthage, west pine and Pinecrest

One of my favorite parts of being a senior photographer is capturing moments for families I’ve known for years. I first met Julian’s mom through a mutual friend, and over the years, I’ve taken headshots for her as well as family portraits of Julian’s younger sister. So when it was time for Julian’s senior session, I was honored to be the one to document this special milestone!

Young man leans against a brick wall outside a high school entrance, smiling. Visible text: "Fuquay-Varina High School, Home of the Bengals." Photography by Makana Photography, a senior portrait photography serving Pinehurst, Southern Pines, aberdeen, carthage, west pine and Pinecrest

Starting at the Football Field

Julian is wrapping up his senior year in Fuquay-Varina, where he plays football for his high school team. Naturally, we kicked off his session at the school, capturing portraits in front of the stadium and the iconic “Home of the Bengals” sign. While we knew in advance that the football field itself would be locked, that didn’t stop us from getting some great shots that highlighted his love for the sport.

His mom had warned me that big smiles might be hard to come by—but Julian proved her wrong! He gave me all the expressions, from serious and intense to relaxed and genuine. He was such a natural in front of the camera, making my job easy!

Young man in a burgundy sweater stands confidently with arms crossed by a chain-link fence. Greenery and a blurred park are in the background.Photography by Makana Photography, a senior portrait photography serving Pinehurst, Southern Pines, aberdeen, carthage, west pine and Pinecrest

Smiling man in a maroon sweater stands confidently with arms crossed by a chain-link fence, with blurred greenery and a warm backdrop.Photography by Makana Photography, a senior portrait photography serving Pinehurst, Southern Pines, aberdeen, carthage, west pine and Pinecrest

Exploring Downtown Fuquay-Varina

After wrapping up at the school, we headed to a local park and then downtown Fuquay-Varina, stopping at a few locations his mom had picked out. It was my first time really exploring the town (even though I always pass the sign on my monthly Costco run to Cary!), and I have to say—I’m a fan! Fuquay has so much small-town charm, and I’ll definitely be back soon.

Senior Photography Sessions in Fuquay-Varina & Moore County, NC

Senior sessions are all about capturing personality, interests, and this exciting time of life. Whether it’s on the football field, in a charming downtown area, or at a favorite local spot, I love creating sessions that reflect each senior’s story.

If you’re a high school senior in Fuquay-Varina, Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Carthage, Aberdeen, or anywhere in Moore County, let’s plan a session that’s all about YOU!

📍 Makana Photography | Moore County, NC | Senior Photography💌 Ready to book? Let’s chat!