This last weekend I met my sister and brother in law at my studio in REO Town. Now that I have been able to use the gallery for over a year, I find I really love the flexibility it provides when needing to shoot in the colder seasons here in Lansing. Our reason for gathering was to create some adorable photos of their daughter, Ruby. I have had quite a few sessions recently with little ones and although it feels their energy out paces that of us grownups, I am still often very satisfied with the end results. The photographs of little children (two years or younger) are pure and full of emotion. If they are not happy, they express it. If they are happy it shines all over their face. To me capturing this uninhibited and natural look is a pure joy!

Here are some samples from our one hour studio session:

To create the different styles my sister in law brought a few outfit changes and I prepared separate photographic areas. I also brought in Christmas props including a bed, ornaments, lights, a sled and decorative wrapping paper. I don't always use all the props, but I like having different options visible so the parents can make quick decisions based on the whims of the child we are photographing.

This image was based off an idea I found on Pinterest. The parents had to be very patient as they couldn't tell when the candy canes were in the right places. I am very lucky to have cooperative clients who agree to these creative ideas.

I really love how Ruby's dress sparkles in this black and white image.

I think the hardest part about shooting two year olds is how much they move, which isn't great for portrait photography. When I can get them to settle down, though, I can stop the action and get some great photographs.

Having multiple areas available to shoot also provided the ability to have a non themed photograph taken. This was a very sweet moment when my sister began to sing "You are My Sunshine" to Ruby who was so relaxed she almost fell asleep on the soft blanket.

I cherish these moments spending a solid hour with family and friends, watching them be tender with their children and even hearing a sweet melody when I had no idea they could sing. I love these times.

Thank you for letting me cherish your relationship with your child.

All images were taken at AA Creative Corridor where photographers may rent studio space for their portrait sessions with their clients.

Ariniko has been taking photographs of children since the birth of her first child in 1992. Since then she has provided portrait sessions for families, event sessions involving children like the Bunny Hop at the Lansing City Market and private events like birthday parties. If you are interested in child photography please fill out the contact form and Ariniko will contact you for more details.