What do you get when you mix a homemade raft, an adorable red headed boy and a gorgeous riverside location? A fabulous children's photography session!

Meet 17  month old Thane who helped me model my new raft photo prop. I was excited to meet Thane and his parents at the Nature Center here in Pueblo last week on a day that was supposed to be beautiful but decided to turn nasty a couple of hours before our session. Despite threatening skies and some gusty wind, the rain and lightening held off and we were able to make the most of our time together.

We spent some time walking around and exploring, Thane got to pet a puppy and watch bicyclists zoom past. He got such a kick out of helping me pull the wagon that was carrying the raft. I think he might also be a budding photographer, he loved touching my camera and checking out the buttons. He even managed to take photo of me (nope, not sharing that one!). It was no time at all before Thane was warmed up and happy to be in front of the camera. I usually have to work a little more to get smiles from one year olds, but not this time! Thane was happy to give them freely. 

Thane's daddy likes to fish and actually showed up fishing pole in hand, so the raft theme I planned ahead of time ended up working beautifully with the Arkansas River in the background.  Daddy didn't catch any fish, but Thane and I got some great photos. 

I'm really happy with how this session turned out. Thane's beautiful red hair really popped against the natural background and he was just such a happy kid. I'm so glad his parents gave me the opportunity to photograph him. We made the best of the clouds while fighting the wind and walked away with some precious images of a sweet little guy.