Photos create memories that are held onto for a lifetime. Everyone wants the perfect shot to remember their special moment.

Dallastown alum Amanda Naylor has her own photography business where she captures these special moments. She is a 2008 graduate of DHS.

While in high school Naylor spent most of her free time in the art department. She even got a permanent pass from former art teacher Mrs. Bell, where she would spend most of her study halls.

“I really loved all my art classes, especially the photography class and the freedom of going outside for photos,” Naylor said.

Naylor knew she wanted a career in photography when she was completing her culminating portfolio here at Dallastown. She originally thought she wanted to be an art teacher but she didn’t know how to write a paper or make a presentation that would complete her portfolio.

A friend suggested to her that she take her senior pictures. As she took her friend’s senior pictures, another friend documented it, so she could use the pictures for her presentation.

After graduating from DHS, Naylor attended Antonelli Institute of Art and Photography, where she graduated in 2010.

“It was a small school, with 10-12 people in your class. We spoke to our teachers on a first name basis. It was really welcoming and down to earth,” Naylor said.

When in college Naylor clearly remembers when her professor asked her what she wanted to do with photography she said she wanted to have her own business.

“I still remember one of the first days of college, my professor asked us all what we wanted to do with photography and I said, ‘I want to own my own business!’” Naylor said.

Right after graduation Naylor started her photography business.

“I started fresh out of college. I shot my first wedding the summer after graduating and had NO wedding experience! I still can’t believe they hired me!” Naylor said.

Naylor does all types of photography from senior sessions to newborn sessions.

This past summer, Naylor hit the “100 weddings” mark, ironically the bride who was her first senior session after she officially started and registered her business.

“It was a really humbling moment, and I cried at the end of her wedding,” Naylor said.

Naylor is pretty notable for taking pictures of many seniors here at Dallastown.

“Seniors have such a special place in my heart since a senior session was really my first session!” Naylor said.

Naylor has taken pictures of numerous Dallastown students, including senior Alexa Knaub.

“Amanda took my senior pictures the summer before my senior year. She took me to a family member’s farm. I love my pictures; they turned out amazing,” Knaub said.

Naylor loves that her job which gives her the ability to be creative and be able to stay at home with her daughter during the day.

“It allows me to meet amazing people and be a part of their story. It’s shown me what can happen when you work hard and don’t give up on yourself,” Naylor said.

Two of Naylor’s favorite spots to take pictures include John Rudy Park and Kline’s Run.

“They’re usually my two “go to” places. But really, just put me in a pretty field and my heart is happy. I’d love to go back to Colorado to shoot another wedding, or anywhere out West with beautiful field and mountain views,” Naylor said.

Naylor wants Dallastown students to create memories that will last a lifetime.

“Embrace the time you have with your friends, take a lot of photos together to remember the memories. Graduation will truly be here before you know it, and sometimes a photograph will be all you have left,” Naylor said.