I was all but certain that this image wouldn’t be chosen from the client’s proof selection, and it wasn’t. I can understand that perhaps her parents thought she appeared a little too close to angry here, although I see her very differently. I loved the way she wasn’t afraid to meet me head on is moment--how she didn’t feel the need to play coy, shy away, or pretend anything for my benefit. Her tiny six year old frame was a solid and unshakable presence, not in the least bit intimidated by this photographer. (Okay I’m not very intimidating, but still, I am a grownup, and I carried a big camera.)

I’ve seen this same look on so many occasions photographing young children and each time I do I’m filled with reverence for how they innately seem to know their power and worthiness, despite their small stature in a great big world. In these moments, when it feels to me that the veil between my little subject and I is sheer and thin, it’s as if I can almost touch it myself--that unflinching impenetrable spirit that isn’t at all afraid.



~Cynthia