In their newly opened Paris Ridge Photography studio, Krissy Walker and Samantha Blackmore are at the end of a two-hour long session with a ten-day old infant. As his mom, big brother and big sister look on, Walker and Blackmore reposition the softly fussing newborn for the camera. A recording of a gentle, quiet voice plays in the background. ”Shhh…shhh…shhh…”

Newborns are not known for being easy subjects to photograph. Blackmore said tiring babies out is ideal; they photograph better if they are asleep. Their vision is not fully developed at birth, and their eyes tend to cross, which explains all the idyllic pictures of sweetly sleeping babes.

Walker specializes in newborn photography, but for her, the relationship between family and photographer often begins before a baby’s birth, with a maternity photo session. As the baby grows, there will be a session at six months — at the height of baby cuteness — and a first birthday session.

Blackmore referred to the first birthday session as a “Smash and Splash.” Babies are photographed doing a cake smash and then photographed in a bathtub.

Paris Ridge Photography came about when Walker, of “Kaptured by Krissy,” partnered with longtime friend Blackmore to open a studio in Williamstown. Walker, who had her own photography business in Georgetown for 12 years, outgrew the space and decided to open a larger studio in northern Kentucky. Williamstown’s location between Lexington and Cincinnati made it an ideal choice.

Blackmore, who owns Jane’s Saddlebag in Union, brings to the venture years of marketing and event planning experience, as well as her own interest in photography.

Their storefront at 104 Paris Street has been completely renovated by owner Hans Philippo, but they still have a few finishing touches to add, such as curtains to cover the front windows, which will allow them to control the light coming into the space.

In addition to maternity and baby sessions, Walker and Blackmore will do graduation photos, couples photos, family portraits, headshots, maternity photos, senior portraits, sports photography, and any other special occasions. Not tied to the studio, they will also do outdoor and in-home sessions.

The creative business partners have fun plans for the upcoming holidays as well, with Christmas sessions both elegant and whimsical. Crittenden’s popular Santa will be on hand for three days of photo sessions. The Grinch will also be lurking about.

“One of our husbands doesn’t know it, but he’s going to be the Grinch,” Blackmore grinned.

Paris Ridge Photography will be hosting a grand opening on Friday, Nov.10 from 5-6:30 p.m. Everyone is invited to stop by, see the studio, and have a photo taken in Whoville or with one of their other Christmas backdrops for $20. For more information about the studio and upcoming holiday sessions, visit their Facebook page at Paris Ridge Photography.