THE RATIGAN FAMILY – Family Portraits Grand Junction CO
Some sessions feel like a mix between a hike with friends and a burst of laughter therapy—and that’s exactly how it felt photographing the Ratigan family in front of The Monument. Amanda and Emmett showed up with their two kids, Carmela and Henry, plus their dynamic dog duo, Lucy the pug and Lilly the Aussie, ready for a good time. The light was warm, the grass was tall, and the air was buzzing with that laid-back Colorado energy that makes evenings here so perfect.
Lucy and Lilly clearly thought this whole outing was for them. They trotted down the trail like seasoned models, taking turns showing off their best smiles. Lucy, with her little tongue-out grin, was pure joy. Lilly, stayed close by—alert, calm, and always ready for the next photo op. Together they were the perfect pair, radiating friendship and sunshine right from the start.
Henry brought all the charm. His curls caught the light just right (seriously, movie-star level), and he had that effortless mix of sweetness and humor that makes photographing kids such a blast. He is confident and yet completely genuine—and that smile of his made every frame feel bright.
Carmela, meanwhile, was pure movement and magic. One minute she was twirling, the next she was balancing on a fence rail like it was her stage. She has this fearless energy that photographs can’t help but capture
One of my favorite moments? Watching her sprint across the grass with Lilly, leash in hand, looking like the two of them were practicing for a dog show. The joy on both of their faces said it all—best friends in full motion.
Then there was Amanda and Emmett—proof that love only gets better with time. At one point, Emmett took Amanda’s hand and gave her a twirl that instantly felt like a throwback to their wedding day. Her laughter lit up the frame, and his expression said everything about how much fun they still have together.
As the sun dipped behind The Monument, the whole scene turned golden. The mountain glowed in the distance, and the family just fit right into it—relaxed, connected, and full of life.
Sessions like this are what make photographing families in Grand Junction so special. The Monument always brings a little magic, but it’s the families—the laughter, the dogs, the playful energy—that make it unforgettable. The Ratigans are exactly the kind of family that makes my job feel like the best one in the world.
Emmett and Amanda, Thank you so much for putting your trust in me to create Fine Art of Your Family. I can’t wait to install your Wall Art. I know you will treasure it for decades to come and pass it down to the kids when it’s time.
Can’t wait to watch your adorable kids grow!
Much Love,
Csilla
Here are some of our favorites from this photo session – THE RATIGAN FAMILY – Family Portraits Grand Junction CO
About the artist – THE RATIGAN FAMILY – Family Portraits Grand Junction CO
Csilla Leonard Fine Art Portraits is a professional Newborn Photography Studio in Grand Junction, CO. We also specialize in maternity and family photography.
We are a full-service portrait studio that takes care of all your photography related needs and desires so you can focus on what’s most important: Your Baby and Family.
Our mission is to provide an exceptional experience while creating Fine Art for your home that you will proudly display and pass down for generations to come.
Csilla has years of experience as a baby photographer and is highly trained in newborn safety.
She is a true believer in capturing the way the babies are on their own. Instead of posing the babies ‘perfectly’ and using an overwhelming amount of props, she uses light to create timeless Fine Art of Your Baby.
Our newborn photography studio’s satisfied clients realize the value of printed wall art and heirloom albums.
We also serve Fruita, Glenwood Springs and Montrose, CO.
Click here to learn more about the Csilla Leonard Experience!
