Mackenzie's University of Georgia Senior Livestock Photos

Senior Spotlight: Mackenzie from UGA

As she wrapped up her time at the University of Georgia in Athens, Mackenzie asked me to photograph her senior portraits, celebrating alongside her Holstein winter calf, Shania. I always enjoy capturing senior portraits, especially when students choose to include their livestock or pets—it brings so much personality and meaning to the session.

Mackenzie’s journey with dairy heifers began in ninth grade, despite having no previous agricultural background. Over time, she grew passionate about caring for and training her show heifers. She's now taken a step further by owning her own animals, focusing on breeding strategies, maintaining production records, and studying lineage.

Her involvement in the dairy world didn’t stop when she got to UGA. Through the Dairy Science Club, she served as the Commercial Dairy Heifer Show Chair, organizing the entire youth show from start to finish—a role she embraced with enthusiasm and success. Beyond event planning, some of her favorite college experiences included participating in research projects and presenting at industry events like the American Dairy Science Association conference.

We began her senior portrait session at her former high school, about 45 minutes south of Athens, where Shania was being boarded. The light filtered perfectly through the trees beside the school's greenhouses, backlighting the pair in a soft, golden glow. Mackenzie wore a spirited UGA football jersey as she posed with Shania, and I encouraged her to simply love on her calf—capturing their genuine bond and connection.

Afterward, we moved into a nearby pasture where a group of summer yearling heifers grazed under the setting sun. The scene was stunning, with the warm evening light casting a golden hue across the landscape. Of course, we had to take the classic cap-and-gown shots—UGA’s black robes standing out beautifully against the lush green pasture and red dirt road. We wrapped up the session with traditional senior portraits, but with a twist: cows all around.

It was a joyful evening spent outdoors with Mackenzie and her animals. Livestock senior portraits that involve pets or livestock are some of my absolute favorites—they’re not just senior portraits, but celebrations of passion, dedication, and the unique bonds we share with animals.

Katie Williams – K. Williams Photography – A Georgia senior, equine, livestock and pet photographer. I'm happy to serve you, transforming deeply valued parts of your life into a custom-tailored experience and lasting artwork. Explore my site or contact me to discover the best ways we can work together.