In just a year’s time, Lauren Alaina has transformed from an adorable ‘American Idol’ runner-up to a bombshell blonde country starlet right before our eyes. The ‘Georgia Peaches’ singer was a busy bee in photographer Russ Harrington’s studio this week, and thanks to Twitter, we were able to get a sneak peek at the singer’s sassy, more mature look.

“Shooting with @Russ_Harrington @vallorie and @merigray today. What do you guys think?” Alaina tweeted Tuesday, including a photo of herself wearing denim shorts and a denim jacket, with a sparkly top thrown in to give her a little glitz and glamor.

Later, the photographer shared an especially telling shot of the rising star, this time with a more serious look on her face, her hair blown stick-straight across her face. “I love it when a shoot comes together! The light, the style, @lauren_alaina looks stunning!” he wrote.

Not only does Alaina look 10 years older in the capture, but she also looks especially comfortable in her skin these days. The photo shoot came at a good time for the 17-year-old singer, who needed a little pick-me-up after one of her close friends passed away last weekend. The young star took to her Twitter page to inform her fans of her loss on Sunday night (July 22).

Fortunately, a little one-on-one time with the camera helped boost Alaina’s mood. We can’t wait for more pictures to pop up!

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