In this week’s episode of The Best of Raleigh, host Gretchen Coley sits down with one of the Triangle’s most beloved creatives: Emily Bautista, founder of Forever Young and Free, a boutique senior photography company known for turning milestone moments into high-fashion, confidence-boosting experiences. From starting out with a $300 camera to now running a thriving photography business and a full Glam Squad, Emily’s story is as inspiring as the portraits she captures.

A Vision Sparked by Passion

Emily’s journey began in the most personal way—during her own senior year of high school. Armed with a Canon Rebel and a dream, she started shooting anything and everything. Her path eventually led her through weddings, newborn sessions, and family shoots until she found her true calling: senior photography. Balancing life as a mother of four girls, she embraced a business model that fit her lifestyle and fueled her creative spark. Her supportive husband, dubbed her “Tech Wizard,” has been instrumental behind the scenes, helping to streamline operations and scheduling.

Where Confidence Meets Community

What sets Forever Young and Free apart isn’t just the flawless lighting or chic outfits—it’s the way Emily creates community. Each year, she selects 16 to 20 girls from across Raleigh to join her senior and junior teams. These girls form friendships, boost one another’s confidence, and participate in shoots at some of Raleigh’s most iconic locations—think Dix Park, Union Station, and even spontaneous roadside flower fields. It’s more than a photoshoot; it’s a year-long experience rooted in belonging and self-expression.

Emily describes it best: “In high school, you don’t always have spaces that are just for lifting you up. I wanted to create something that lets girls feel beautiful, seen, and celebrated.”

A Studio That Feels Like a Dream

Located in a historic building in downtown Apex, Emily’s studio is a pastel dream filled with pink backdrops, silver boots, and a full Glam Room. Each space is designed to fuel creativity while offering comfort and style. After each session, families are invited back to review printed photos and select their favorites—a personal touch that makes the process even more special.

What’s more? Her planning is meticulous. With a finely tuned system for scheduling, communication, and styling, Emily ensures that every session is seamless. Moms, take note: you won’t have to lift a finger.

Raleigh Roots and Future Dreams

A resident of New Hill and a Raleigh transplant of nearly a decade, Emily’s work is deeply connected to the community. Through Forever Young and Free, she’s built relationships with hundreds of local families, many of whom have become dear friends. Looking ahead, Emily envisions expanding her offerings and, perhaps one day, welcoming her own daughters onto the team.

Her guiding mantra? “I’m already a success in the future.” It’s a philosophy she lives by—and one she’s quietly instilling in every young woman who steps in front of her camera.

Ready for Your Close-Up?

To explore Emily’s work or learn more about joining the Forever Young and Free team, visit youngandfreeseniors.com or follow her on Instagram at @youngandfreeseniors. Whether you’re a mom planning your child’s senior year or a teen ready to shine, Emily’s sessions promise beauty, fun, and a whole lot of confidence.

Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from the heart of the Triangle. The Best of Raleigh drops new episodes every Friday on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.

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