THE BLOG
What If We Let the Kids Be Kids? If you’re anything like the families I love working with, you probably plan your holiday mini session with just a hint of nervous energy. The outfits are laid out. The snacks are packed. You’ve practiced “your photo smile” in the mirror. And the little voice in your...
Senior year has a way of slipping by before you realize it. This guide breaks down 27 meaningful photos every parent should capture – from the messy bedroom to the goodbye hug – so you don’t look up in June wondering where the year went. Grab the free checklist and start this week.
Senior photos happen once. So before you click “book,” it’s worth asking the right questions. Sarasota photographer Michaela Ristaino walks you through exactly what to ask a photographer before the session, so you end up with images that actually look like your teenager.
There is a particular kind of doctor who visits hospital patients. You know the one. He sweeps into the room with purpose, clipboard in hand, delivers his report in under three minutes, and then pivots toward the door with the energy of someone who has eleven more rooms to get to. And just as his...
Oh Michaela, what a beautiful tribute to your beloved Mom, I feel honored to read about her through your words, and some of her own. My Mum passed away 2 years ago, tomorrow in fact, I was also asleep in the recliner beside her bed on her last night, so this post came at the perfect time for me… ReplyCancel
Michaela this is so beautiful, every word so accurately describing Dori. She was so special and she loved you all so completely. I am so happy to think of her up in heaven with her sweetheart! I feel honored to have known both of them and all of you! You’re all in my thoughts often! Love to you all! Melanie ReplyCancel
What a beautiful tribute to the woman your mom was and the impact she left. You have me in tears. Life is a beautiful and precious gift. My husband keeps saying “In 5 years, I’m going to wish it was the summer of 2026,” so we’re living this summer and every moment moving forward with intention to create those memories you speak of that aren’t in a photo, but they live inside you forever.
Thank you for taking the time to write such a meaningful letter and help us all remember what’s important. You’re Amazing ❤️ReplyCancel
Olivia is a barefoot wildflower girl. Madelyn is polished, downtown, editorial. Their Sarasota senior sessions couldn’t look more different, and yet the photos that hit hardest in both galleries have everything in common. Here’s what happens when a session is built around who your teen actually is.
Michaela Ristaino Photography
michaela@ristainophotography.com | 941-957-8088 | Sarasota FL