Lion’s head henna

One thing I love about my work is all the inspiration I receive from the women that come and see me. I ask if they have any ideas for the design when they make the appointment. I love it when I'm given direction - it sets my Muse running with ideas. 

Ella, a first time mama, told me she wanted a lion head for her henna design. Compelling! I've created several designs including lions in the past and I was excited to create a new, fresh design. She had mentioned an ocean theme as well, so incorporated a hibiscus flower on one side and a crashing wave on the other side. It took 2 hours to adorn this pregnant belly - here she is in the henna throne right after adornment. She is glowing! 

We stepped outside into my backyard and found some natural sunlight and green in the pine trees to photograph with. It was winter in Colorado, but not too cold to be out for a few minutes.  

Afterwards her husband came into the studio and I photographed them together. What a sweet couple! The photos took about a half hour. 

She returned to my studio 4 days later for more photos. How dark the henna will be is always a mystery. It was beautiful to behold! 

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