CUMBERLAND - Photography has always been an interest for Christina Richardson, who was introduced to the black and white film world through a graphic arts program in high school.

But after only two years of making it her career, she is the president of the Photographic Society of Rhode Island, and has already seen her name in lights on one of the world's largest stages, Times Square in New York City.

After Richardson won a contest last year through the Pawtucket-based print photo lab Printmakers Inc., they submitted her photo for Kodak's "Connect with Pro Quality" campaign that would result in winning images flashing on the company's marquee in the heart of Manhattan.

Richardson's image of a newborn boy from Cumberland sitting in a blanket-wrapped basket won the grand prize, along with photographers from all over the country, including three from Rhode Island.

Richardson has been able to visit her image twice since it started its month-long run before Christmas.

"At first, I thought it was nice I was selected," Richardson said. "But then when you go, it's like 'Wow, this is pretty big.'"

Staying up until midnight on New Year's Eve for the first time in years with her 7-year-old daughter paid off when she saw her photo in the background of programs on major television networks.

Though Richardson found jobs in visual merchandising and the food industry, she said she always had a camera by her side, especially after the birth of her daughter.

She said she started focusing on digital photography, and her newborn baby proved to be the perfect subject.

"Newborns and photography kind of just click," Richardson said, "just to capture those little smiles, those little features."

She said she enjoys it so much, that newborns have become the focus of her photography business.

Whether in a room in her home complete with props and clothing, or outdoors at a scenic location, Richardson has photographed neighbors, friends, and many families in the area, thanks to word of mouth, she said.

"I really wanted to keep it to newborns, but newborns grow up," Richardson laughed. "There's a big demand for family portraits."

She also specializes in maternity photography, as well as toddlers, older kids and teens, and even pets.

She said she is always eager to learn more. Being involved with the PSRI has allowed her to attend workshops about the craft, and submit photos for contests, of which she has won many, including a "Best of Show" regional award from the New England Camera Club Council.

Established in 1927, the PSRI has about 175 members, she said, who meet weekly in Warwick.

"Just being a member and participating, I've learned so much," Richardson said.

And her learning can only benefit the families she works with, she said.

"When my daughter was born, I didn't always want to pick up a camera," Richardson said. "This is a great opportunity for someone else to capture those moments."

Visit www.christinabeth.com for more information, or http:/timessquare.kodak.com to view the winning images.