Fiona's Driveway Paint Session

I absolutely love when my clients come to me with out-of-the-box and messy ideas. When Cindy approached me and asked about photographing a messy paint session for her soon-to-be nine-year old daughter Fiona, I was instantly hooked on the idea. I love ideas and themes that really capture the child's personality.

I have photographed the family several times and have been friends with Cindy since she was nine months pregnant with Fiona, so the family was pretty comfortable with me. It takes some kids awhile to warm up, but it took Fiona only a few minutes.

Cindy purchased chalk paint, brushes, rollers, and even stencils for the birthday girl. It was so fun to see Fiona making shapes, writing words, and really getting creative. There was even a paint sprayer! Cindy was able to score the white tutu for $3 at a children's consignment shop and the tank top was from Target. Although the chalk paint said it was washable, Cindy didn't want to risk ruining an expensive outfit.

Fiona had a blasting getting messy. She loved painting hearts on her white tank top and the driveway. She challenged her mom to a game of Tic Tac Toe but lost.

My favorite shot from the entire session was the close up for Fiona's messy painted feet. It's a throwback to my own summers as a child. I refused to wear shoes most days and the bottoms of my feet would be covered in mud, green from freshly mowed green, or even the deep red of the softball field from sliding into home.

I love asking little girls to spin, twirl, cartwheel, or do the splits for photos. Even girls that aren't involved in dance, gymnastics, or cheerleading enjoy showing off their moves for the camera. Fiona has participated in competitive cheerleading in the past and I had previously taken her photos while she performed her routine for the camera. I was able to get some great shots that way. Her tutu had great movement and she enjoyed modeling for the camera. Fiona has her mom's gorgeous blue eyes, and I was amazed how well they popped against the white garage door.

If I had one wish for Fiona and other young girls, it's that I hope they realize they can be loud, messy and take up space. They can hang with the boys and be feminine. Those things can exist at the same time or not at all. They are the creators of their own destinies. It's moms like Cindy that are raising the next generation of female warriors. These girls will use their creativity and their drive to change the world. These are the ones we've been waiting for.

Happy 9th birthday, Fiona. The world isn't supposed to be like this. Your mom and I are going to do everything we can to make it a safe place for you and other girls. Keep your head up, darling. Do not be afraid to use your voice.