Explore the blog

hello!

I’m Dakota, a Wilmington, NC-based photographer helping engaged couples feel comfortable in front of the camera and creative businesses grow with purposeful brand imagery.

Vlog Favorites

Looking for Something Specific?

weddings

weddings

seniors

The 53rd Annual Miss Aycock Pageant 2018

March 19, 2018

I planned on heading to Goldsboro this weekend for Georgia’s senior session, and what an awesome weekend it was to be home! The 53rd Annual Miss Aycock Pageant was being held at the school and Leah (one of my 2018 senior spokesmodels), Emily (a #dakotaherseysenior), and Katie (my little brother’s girlfriend) were all competing. Thankfully I had my camera with me after wrapping up Georgia’s senior session at the CBA High School softball field so I could grab a few shots of everyone!

I won’t lie…my favorite part of attending the pageant was walking in and seeing the majority of the contestant’s headshots being my photography! As a photographer, it is always so exciting and encouraging to see your work displayed. Thankfully I work with some of the most involved, successful, and beautiful seniors there are so I get to see this happen often!

The girls looked absolutely beautiful and their performances were so entertaining! Emily Thorne was crowned Miss Aycock 2018, while Ariel Smith took first runner up and Katie Brown took second runner up. Leah Campbell was awarded Miss Congeniality (no surprise there!). I am so proud of these girls for stepping outside of their comfort zones and trying something new!

Congratulations ladies!!!

All of my #dakotaherseyseniors and supporters!! I’m so glad these girls are a part of my tribe.

Katie sang “Hopelessly Devoted To You” by Olivia Newton John and it was gorgeous! She’s a very talented dancer but chose to sing for the pageant. This was the first time I’ve heard her sing and I was blown away!

Mikayla in her evening gown –– SWOON.

Leah won Miss Congeniality, which was no surprise with her fun-loving, bright personality. This girls cares so much about everyone.

Katie being awarded second runner up!!

Emily being crowned Miss Aycock 2018!!! So well deserved!!!

Katie and Weston (my favorite boy in the world, my little brother).

Congratulations, Emily!!!

Sweet Walker, I can’t wait to do his senior photos soon!

The Campbells –– LOVE this family!!

Love seeing my spokesmodels supporting each other!!! I couldn’t have picked a better group of ladies.

Congratulations, Katie!!

hello!

I’m Dakota, a Wilmington, NC-based photographer Helping engaged couples feel comfortable in front of the camera and creative businesses grow with purposeful brand imagery.

Looking for Something Specific?

Vlog Favorites

Search

seniors

How to Choose Your Senior Photographer

weddings

weddings

How to Plan a Proposal with a Photographer

The Conversation You MUST Have With Your Bridal Party

Reader Favorites

a few

a few

Reader Favorites