Heidi Anderson, Artist

Keiki are muse for Heidi Anderson — the shy smiles, the hysterical laughter, the mischievous grins, the purity of newborn skin. Although she occasionally photographs a solo adult, Anderson focuses on children because she finds them to be the most honest and sincere subjects.

In the throes of parenthood herself, Anderson is inspired daily by the childhood of her three young children (6, 4 and 2 at this writing). “There are so many priceless, quiet, pouty, hilarious, goofy and sweet things that I see in my own son and daughters each day,” says Anderson. Those are the moments I want to capture for moms and dads and grandparents to treasure.”

Sole proprietor and photographer for Keiki Photography located on the cusp of downtown Honolulu and Chinatown, Anderson is one of the lucky few who earns her living while feeding a passion.

Anderson also photographs keiki with their families. Deeply moved by the impact of children on their families, she revels in the experiences of capturing what she calls and “the most incredible connection of human spirit.”

Anderson came to call the Hawaiian Islands her home by way of Maui. Her childhood was spent in a small mountain community in Northern California called Lake Almanor. After graduating from high school she moved to Maui. It was there that her love of photography began.

A friend’s photography of his children inspired her to take a class at the visual arts center, Hui No‘eau in upcountry Maui. From the moment she was exposed to the developing and printing process, it was clear that the magic of images appearing through a tray of chemicals would ignite an interest strong enough to spark a career.

Anderson attended the Academy of Art in San Francisco where she gained the discipline required to balance the technical and creative sides of the trade. A help-wanted ad in the Academy’s job placement center cemented her path to the unique brand of art photography Anderson is known for today. That ad led her to nationally recognized children’s photographer Julie Floyd.

Floyd is Anderson’s most important mentor. At 22 years old she became Floyd’s assistant and learned the skill of hand painting photographs, a signature of Anderson’s work. “The way she connected with children and their parents, I had never seen anything like it,” says Anderson. “I remember feeling so fortunate to be a part of something so artistic and fun. Julie showed me the human side of photography.”

Anderson subsequently managed a successful Classic Kids studio in Los Gatos, California where she built a loyal and high profile clientele. Determined to return to Hawaii where her passion began, she left California with her family in 2002 and opened Keiki Photography.

Anderson ’s work has been featured in Hawaii hotels and galleries. She has been fortunate to work with local and national celebrities including the families of the National Football League and the National Hockey League. But the most important showcase for Anderson is in the homes of island families who are reminded of the special moments childhood brings.

“It thrills me to think of the legacy I am a part of through these photos that will bring back intense family memories 20-30 years from now.”