I’m speechless. This labor of love, that I almost talked myself out of ended like this….
#OperationLoveLola featured on the COVER of the Beauty Revived 50 Most Beautiful Children Magazine.
So honored. So humbled. So grateful. We did it, sweet Lola, you and I. We did it.
I can’t wait to share the rest of Lola’s images and her story in the coming days. But for now, I need to go buy that magazine and get a copy (who am I kidding, MANY copies) in my grubby little hands!
be joyful,
50 things about me. Counting down.
40: My mom was the original boss babe. My tenacity and my ability to get sh*t done, that`s her.
39: I don`t like chocolate ice cream. Give me a wild, unique gelato flavor in Italy any day.
38: My dad is my hero.
37: In high school, I played Maria in The Sound of Music. She marries a Captain with 7 kids. I grew up and married a Captain with 5.
36: My college degree is in Vocal Performance.
New ones every Tuesday. Catch up anytime in my Story highlights. 🤍
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#GetToKnowMe #BehindTheLens #SarasotaPhotographer #FamilyFirst #PhotographerLife #VocalPerformance #50ThingsAboutMe
One day they`re little.....and then you blink. Don`t miss the chance to capture every moment.
✨ 2026 Holiday Mini Sessions are officially open for booking!
Each session includes:
✔ A 15-minute session at one of Sarasota`s most-loved spots
✔ 5 hand-edited digital images (with upgrade options available)
✔ Print release + curated gallery
✔ Professional print + gift options
✔ The chance to actually enjoy the moment, chaos, giggles, and all! 🧡
Spots are very limited and going fast. Grab one before they`re gone.
Booking link in bio.
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#SarasotaMiniSessions #SarasotaHolidayMinis #SarasotaFamilyPhotographer #SarasotaMiniPhotoSessions #SarasotaFL
The vintage red truck is back. 🎄
2026 Holiday Mini Sessions at Myakka Ranch, Sunday, November 15. Fifteen minutes, five hand-edited images, and a whole lot of Christmas-truck charm.
Spots are always the first to go. Link in bio to book.
#SarasotaMiniSessions #SarasotaFamilyPhotographer #SarasotaMiniPhotoSessions #RedTruckMiniSessions #SarasotaFL
Several years ago, a little boy shut down completely mid-session. Head down, done, no interest in my jokes, less interest in having his picture taken.
We gave him a minute. By the end of those fifteen minutes, he gave me the most genuine smile I`ve ever caught on camera.
That`s what a mini session can hold, real moments, not posed ones. 2026 Holiday Mini Sessions are open for booking now. Limited dates, favorite Sarasota spots, galleries delivered in time for your cards.
Link in bio to book.
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#SarasotaFamilyPhotographer #SarasotaMiniSessions #SiestaKeyPhotographer #SarasotaHolidayMinis #SarasotaFL
There’s a version of me that exists only during golden hour, and she is not calm.
Everyone else sees a pretty sky. I see a countdown.
This is what six minutes of pure chaos looks like. Don’t let my calm exterior deceive you. 😆🦆
Tag a senior mom who needs to see this level of commitment 😂
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#SarasotaSeniorPhotographer #ClassOf2027 #GoldenHourChaos #SarasotaSeniors #BehindTheLens
A perfect little Cape Cod getaway @garlandsmotel ♥️
Michaela Ristaino Photography
michaela@ristainophotography.com | 941-957-8088 | Sarasota FL
Wonderful news! You and Lola did a great job and it is so exciting that you guys are on the cover!
THANK YOU, Tam!! It’s amazing to share her shining light in this way!
Fantastic! You and your helpers put so much love into this project. Wonderful cover photo.