Capturing Krissy’s Beautiful Spirit: A Valentine Mini Session to Remember

Recently, I had the absolute joy of welcoming a sweet and vibrant 10-year-old girl named Krissy to my studio for a very special Valentine Mini Session. This session was particularly meaningful because it marked the first time Krissy had professional photos taken since she was just five months old. As soon as Krissy walked through the door with her big brother Tom and her mom Ang, I knew we were in for a truly heartwarming experience.

Krissy’s mom, Ang, was understandably a little nervous before the session. She worried that Krissy, who is autistic, might not feel comfortable or fully participate. But let me tell you—Krissy absolutely blew us all away! Her excitement was infectious, and her love for modeling shone through every moment. She lit up the studio with her smiles and enthusiasm, proving that every child deserves the opportunity to be celebrated and captured just as they are. Her favorite song, “September” got her dancing and smiling!

A Session Full of Stories and Sweets

For my Valentine Mini Sessions, I like to create an immersive experience that’s fun for kids and helps them feel at ease. This year’s theme was “Stories and Sweets,” and it couldn’t have been more perfect for Krissy.

We started in the “Library” set, where Krissy enjoyed flipping through Valentine-themed books. Watching her engage with the books and immerse herself in the moment was so special. Then, we moved to the second set: a charming Sweet Shop filled with cookies and Hershey’s kisses. Of course, I made sure to check for any allergies beforehand to ensure everything was safe and enjoyable for her.

Krissy also brought along her beloved “Hello Kitty Bear” a special gift from Christmas. Having Hello Kitty Bear by her side brought an extra layer of comfort and joy, and it was wonderful to see her light up with her familiar companion. Hello Kitty Bear matched her bow in her hair, so it was the perfect compliment to her outfit as well!

A Dress for the Occasion

For this special session, Krissy’s mom had picked out a brand-new dress and shoes, complete with a matching headband. She looked absolutely adorable and ready for the Valentine’s Day celebration. As if her outfit wasn’t sweet enough, Krissy surprised me with a beautiful bouquet of roses. That thoughtful gesture truly touched my heart and made the day even more memorable.

A Mother’s Perspective

After the session, Ang shared how thrilled she was with how everything turned out. When she shared the photos with others, she mentioned receiving comments like, “She doesn’t look autistic.” To be honest, hearing that comment broke my heart. It’s a reminder that misconceptions about autism still exist. Every child, regardless of their differences, deserves to be celebrated and photographed with love and pride. Krissy is not defined by a label—she’s a beautiful, kind, and radiant little girl who brought so much joy to my studio that day.

A Day to Remember

This session was a celebration of Krissy, her unique personality, and her incredible bond with her family. From the way she looked up to her big brother Tom to the way her mom’s love for her shone through in every interaction, it was an honor to capture these moments. Sessions like this remind me why I do what I do—to create lasting memories and celebrate the individuality of every person who steps in front of my lens.

Thank you, Krissy, Tom, and Ang, for trusting me with this special milestone. You’ve reminded me once again that every child has a light that deserves to shine, and I’m so grateful to have been part of your journey.