She’s been working for this day for six years. That’s 60% of her life, she’s been putting in the hours and the training to achieve this: pointe shoes. At the request of her mama, we were able to secure time in the studio at Riverside Ballet Arts where she studies so that I could photograph this tiny dancer’s milestone.

The studio was breath-taking. Everything that you imagine a New York ballet studio would look and feel like. There was something magical about it. Tall windows and reflective flooring provided a stunning backdrop for her beauty and poise.

She’s not going to be this tiny much longer, but I’m sure she will retain her grace forever.