on being a little sister, kiyomi + mia | modern family photographer, oakland

sister, -noun; a female offspring having both parents in common with another offspring; female sibling.

If this is a the technical definition of ‘sister’ then I would argue ‘little sister’ needs a definiton all its own. It might go something like this:

little sister, -noun; female offspring, prone to lifelong torment of older sister including profound levels of mimickry, stealing of prized possessions including clothing, shoes, and jewelry, never-ending admiration of older sister reaching obsessive levels, and last but not least dramatic personality traits which are known to cause great duress to older sister.

I just finished processing two shoots in a row that included sisters and it got me thinking about my life as a little sister.

I happened to be a proud, card-carrying member of the unofficial Little Sisters club. To this very day I do things that totally annoy my older sister. I can say without hesitation that these annoying things are the reason why I drive her crazy and why she loves me so much. It’s a wonderful gift to have an older sister. She is someone who you will always admire. She is infallible, omniscient, and worldly. From birth to old-age she will be your one and only fashion-muse. She’s someone who buys you the perfect gifts and never forgets your birthday. She leads you unknowingly on good paths through life. She’s your biggest fan and most honest friend (“your butt is getting big. Sarah”). My sister is those things and so much more. I love you, Erin. Thank you for letting me torment you all these years!

The series of images above really encapsulates the definition of a little sister for me. Thanks to Mia for illustrating this idea so well. [Full disclosure: Mia was not coaxed or directed at all in this series of images].

Enjoy the rest of this shoot featuring two super-fun and gorgeous little girls, big sister Kiyomi and little sister Mia! Finally, thanks to mom and dad, Kim and Taj for a very fun afternoon!

SISTERS: KIYOMI + MIA

LOCATION: at home in Oakland & Lake Temescal, Oakland

I love how Kim’s home was decorated; bright, cheerful bursts of colors mixed with warm woods and vintage-y details.

Jumping in the car and heading for Lake Temescal.

Just when I think I’ve met the kid with the longest eyelashes in the world, another one comes along. Kiyomi has some amazing lashes!

A gigantic smile from Mia.

Thanks again to Kim, Taj, Kiyomi, and Mia!