COLORADO FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY • THE JANOWSKI FAMILY

An afternoon fishing with grandparents and back home in Superior , Colorado , USA

What was the best part about the act of the documentary photography experience?

Niki spends the time with you, so much time with you, in fact, that she begins to blend in to the fabric of your family. She seems to create an instant connection with your children, allowing them the space to unfold in to their truth. Before you know it, Niki has penetrated past the guard and shiny, perfect (and boring) family photo shoot, and in to the authentic expression of your family. Her photos elevate the life of your family in to the realm of art. They are works to be treasured, and it as if she is able to hold a moment of time, and create images that help you see the beauty of your own life.

What is the best thing about the photos?

Niki isn't your average photographer. She is a true artist. Her eye, her angles, her focus on light and dark, make each photo a sort of active snapshot of the reality of your life. Her images continue to take my breath away each time I look at them. She also puts the work in. She spends hours with your family, takes 1000s of photos, and then sorts and sifts the gems to serve back to you your family as art.

How do the photographs differ from previous family sessions you have had?

Each time I look at my photos, it is like I have a slice of my children's childhood to hold and cherish. The photos bring me to tears every time --- with their truth, with my children's beauty, and with the tenderness of our interactions with our babies that she was able to capture.

Have you printed your images?

I've printed and framed in large format at least 10 of the images -- in our main rooms, in our hallways, and in my children's rooms. They love seeing themselves, and I see these photos as pieces of art that could hang alongside any masterpiece.

What were you hoping to feel when you saw your photos ?

I hope to feel that I am seeing the radiance of my children captured and offered back to me. And I hope to see the love and tender affection of our family radiating through the images.

Was there anything you were suprised about working with Niki ?

I was surprised at how humble Niki is. I mean, she travels the world teaching and taking photos. She is quiet, observant, funny, accepting, and my children just took to her instantly. She offer your family a blanket of grace, even when things get messy, not pretty, and complicated. She is just a beautiful soul. I also think her life experience as a Mom who homeschools her kids and lives with nature affects her wise space holding.