Forever A Masterpiece

Planning Your Child's Portrait History.

The milestones of childhood can never be repeated. But they can be captured in portraits that tell the story of a child's growing up ... as he or she passes through a series of stages... moving ever closer to adulthood.

Yet for many families, the important milestones of their children's history are marked only by hastily purchased "record photographs" that are filed away in a frame behind the most recent photo, lie forgotten in a drawer or simply fade away.

Every child's portrait history should be carefully planned. That's why our studio has joined with a select group of photographers -- inspired by members of Professional Photographers of America -- to create a structured program that helps parents recognize the most important times to have their children photographed. These are the "7 Ages of Childhood" -- times that mark the most significant changes along the path from infancy to young adult hood. When these milestones are recorded by a true professional, they become a treasure to enjoy today and a valued family heirloom as years go by.

As much as you will enjoy childhood portraits from each of these important ages, just think how much they will mean to your child when he or she is grown.

Don't let these priceless opportunities pass you by.

The 1st Age of Childhood

At no time in your child's life will physical changes occur so rapidly. In what seems like the blink of an eye, a tiny, helpless bundle is transformed into an active, robust and inquisitive youngster.

When photographed with one or more parents or siblings, a portrait at this age will capture forever that fleeting time when family members are the center of your baby's intimate world.

Plan to visit your photographer at least three times during your baby's first year.

At Six Months . . . babies are so loveable! Cuddly and responsive, yet still dependent. Strengthened muscles let them sit up and take part in the world around them. Often happy-go-lucky, they crave attention and delight in having an audience. Portraits at this age are a perfect time to reveal chubby little arms and legs and even backsides!

At Nine Months . . . Many babies begin to strike out on their own. Still dependent on their parents, but starting to explore an ever-expanding world... well on the way to becoming a real little person and letting everyone know . . . "You won't hold on to me for long!"

One Year . . . The permanent facial characteristics begin to reveal a family likeness and individual character . . . still a baby, yet emerging as a robust and inquisitive child who is ready to meet the world. For the child who is now walking, the perfect message of the portrait is "I'm free!"

The 2nd Age of Childhood

Around the second birthday, a major milestone is achieved.

The toddler now responds to reason, humor, and action. Totally unpredictable, but always adorable... expect them to be loveable, shy, rowdy, or reserved as they begin to explore the world around them... here one minute and gone the next!

The 3rd Age of Childhood

Still toddlers, most three-year-olds have discovered how to entertain themselves.

The world of toddlers is filled with portrait opportunities that capture the mystery and fantasy that are so much a part of these joyful days of discovery and make-believe that fade so soon.

The 4th Age of Childhood

Age 4 to 5

One of the cutest, most engaging ages for little boys and girls, the ability to speak and reason grow stronger every day. Searching for their place in the world, they have already developed personal interests, likes and dislikes. Their individuality of character and action should be portrayed before the baby teeth are lost and replaced by permanent ones... forever altering the endearing look of early childhood.

Just as the six-month portrait captures the essence of babyhood, a wall portrait made at this age displays forever the engaging charm of childhood.

The 5th Age of Childhood

Age 6 to 8

During this period, the snaggly-tooth age ends and permanent teeth emerge to change the facial contours.

A developing mind reveals a more mature, inquiring look. Now off to school and making their way in the world... There is so much to learn! Portraits made at this age help to confirm a child's positive self image.

The 6th Age of Childhood

Age 9 to 12

As the child prepares to enter the teenage years, physical, emotional, and attitude changes occur.

The little person you have known so well is about to become a more complex and less dependent young person. Peer acceptance is now important, and portraits can capture the child's sense of style and expanding horizons.

The 7th Age of Childhood

Age 13 to 15

The early teenage years — a kind of dress rehearsal for adulthood — have begun to erase the memories of childhood.

The boy is almost a man... in his interests, his attitudes, and thinking. Carefree years... yet ones that anticipate the challenges of adulthood on the horizon. The young woman has begun to blossom into womanhood. Still a lifetime of growing and learning ahead... but never again a child.