The Adri Photo Co.

Category: chicago family photographer

  • South Shore Maternity Session | Melissa & David

    South Shore Maternity Session | Melissa & David

    Melissa and David’s South Shore Maternity Session

    Planning a South Shore maternity session is a wonderful way to celebrate your growing family against a historic Chicago backdrop. Whether you are looking for lakefront views or grand architecture, the South Shore neighborhood offers everything a photographer could dream of. I have loved watching this family grow since our very first session together years ago. Specifically, we met for their eldest daughter’s newborn photos. Since then, I have captured their journey through every new milestone in the city.

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    pregnant mama Melissa and David during their South Shore maternity session in Chicago.

    Celebrating Twins in Chicago

    Melissa and David are adding two new members to their family. Since they are expecting twins, this session felt twice as joyful. We had an amazing time exploring the grounds together. First, the stunning architecture gave us a classic look. Then, we moved toward the open views to catch the blue skies.

    Although becoming a parent is a big change, I know these two are ready. Soon, their capacity for love will grow even more. Consequently, these photos will serve as a beautiful reminder of the quiet moments before the twins arrive.

    mom and dad at their maternity photoshoot sitting holding each other Maternity portraits in front of the historic South Shore Cultural Center architecture
    Maternity portraits in front of the historic South Shore Cultural Center architecture
    mom and dad looking at each other Close up of pregnant belly and twin ultrasound photos at a South Shore maternity session

    Why Choose a South Shore Maternity Session?

    If you want a mix of city vibes and nature, this area is perfect. Furthermore, the light near the lake creates a soft glow that is ideal for portraits. Whether you want a sunset look or bright morning light, the South Shore never fails to impress.

    Finally, I want to thank this couple for trusting me. As a result of our session, they have a timeless gallery to cherish forever.

    celebrating this beautiful pregnant mama with a photoshoot in the south shore
    Couple sharing a kiss in a lush green field at sunset, surrounded by tall grasses and trees.
    A couple standing together in a lush green setting, with the woman wearing a colorful floral dress, cradling her baby bump, and the man smiling beside her, wearing a light blue shirt and shorts.
    A pregnant couple kissing in a field, holding ultrasound photos.
    Silhouette of a couple standing close together at sunset, with the sun shining brightly behind them and creating a starburst effect.
    A couple shares a tender kiss in a sunlit field, with the sun glowing behind them.
    A couple standing close together, smiling and holding hands in a lush garden with greenery and flowers, surrounded by a vine structure in the background.
    A couple stands in a grassy field near the ocean, embracing each other and smiling, with a clear blue sky above.
    A couple embracing in a lush garden with a decorative woven structure in the background. South Shore Maternity Session
    A couple standing together in a grassy field by the ocean, with the woman in a colorful floral dress and the man in a light blue shirt and shorts, both looking at each other affectionately against a backdrop of water and blue sky. South Shore Maternity Session
    Pregnant woman standing in a field, wearing a colorful floral dress and looking upward, with trees and a blue sky in the background. South Shore Maternity Session
    A pregnant woman in a floral dress stands outdoors, gazing thoughtfully with a soft smile, surrounded by tall grass and sunlight. South Shore Maternity Session
    Pregnant woman standing by the beach wearing a floral dress, looking down with a serene expression, surrounded by greenery and ocean in the background. South Shore Maternity Session

    South Shore Maternity Session: Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the best time of day for a South Shore maternity session? The “Golden Hour,” which occurs about an hour before sunset, is the best time. The sun reflects off Lake Michigan and the limestone buildings, creating a warm, flattering glow for expectant mothers.

    Is there a permit required for photos at the South Shore Cultural Center? Yes, like most Chicago Park District locations, a permit is often required for professional photography. Furthermore, it is always best to check their official calendar to ensure no private events are blocking the grand staircase or gardens.

    What should I wear for my maternity portraits? 

    As a Chicago Maternity Photographer, let’s skip the Black dress. I recommend long, flowing dresses that emphasize the bump. Neutral colors like cream, sage, or light blue look stunning against the tan stone of the South Shore architecture.

  • Lincoln Park Family Photography | The Kraters

    Lincoln Park Family Photography | The Kraters

    Lincoln Park Family Photography: A Sun-Drenched Morning

    Choosing Lincoln Park family photography means embracing the beautiful morning sunshine and dappled light that Chicago offers. I recently had the joy of photographing this beautiful two-boy family for the second time. Specifically, it was wonderful to see how much they have grown since our last session. The littlest one is now walking and communicating, truly becoming his own person.

    While the children grow quickly, some things never change. For instance, the love and patience these parents have for their boys is constant. They reminded me that the biggest love is often found in the tiny moments. Because of this, we focused on candid interactions rather than stiff posing. As a result, the gallery is full of genuine laughter and soft, natural light.

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    The Krater family during their Lincoln Park family photography session.
    PARENTS KISSING WHILE BABIES PLAY IN THE BACKGROUND The Krater family during their Lincoln Park family photography session.
    portrait of a boy The Krater family during their Lincoln Park family photography session.

    Why Morning is Best for Lincoln Park Family Photography

    First, the light in Lincoln Park is most beautiful just after sunrise. In addition, the park is much quieter at this time. This is perfect for toddlers who want to explore without the crowds of tourists. Although it requires an early start, the results of Lincoln Park family photography are always worth it. The soft glow on the grass and trees creates a timeless feel for your family portraits.

    Furthermore, Lincoln Park offers so much variety for families. Whether you want to pose by the iconic Honeycomb structure or wander through the lush gardens near the Lincoln Park Conservatory, there is a perfect spot for everyone. If you are planning your own session, I recommend choosing a location that allows your kids to move freely. This helps capture the “beautiful chaos” that makes family life so special.

    boys by a tree Lifestyle Lincoln Park family photography capturing candid parental moments.
    dad and his son sitting by a tree Two young boys playing during a Lincoln Park family photography outing.
    mom and son Lincoln Park family photography outing.
    Two children playing near a large tree in a park, with two adults sitting in the background.
    A close-up of a baby with short hair sitting on a blue blanket outdoors, looking up with a curious expression.
    A young child standing outdoors under a leafy tree branch, smiling and wearing a white shirt and light-colored shorts.
    A concerned toddler with short hair, wearing a cream-colored sleeveless outfit, sits against a blurred natural background.
    A happy family of four in a park, with two children being held by their parents among leafy trees.
    A family of four playing outdoors, with a woman in a long white dress and a man in a blue patterned shirt holding their two children, one of whom is being lifted off the ground. The setting is a grassy area surrounded by trees.
    A family playing outdoors under a tree. A woman holding a toddler while a younger child reaches out towards them. The woman wears a white dress, and the man beside her is in a light blue patterned shirt.
    A family of four walking hand in hand on a grassy slope. The mother wears a white dress, while the father is dressed in a patterned shirt and light pants. Two young children, one wearing a light onesie and the other in a white shirt and shorts, happily walk alongside them. Trees provide shade in the background.
    A couple walks hand in hand while carrying their two children, enjoying a sunny day outdoors in a green park setting.

    Finally, I want to thank the Krater family for trusting me again. Since we have worked together before, the boys felt comfortable right away. Consequently, we were able to capture their true personalities. It is an honor to be your Chicago Family Photographer and document your story year after year!

  • Summer Family Session Chicago | McCall Family

    Summer Family Session Chicago | McCall Family

    McCall Family: A Beautiful Summer Family Session in Chicago

    Choosing a summer family session in Chicago means embracing the beautiful blue skies and bright sunny warmth that our city offers. Every winter, as I look out at the grey environment, I think back to sessions like this one. Specifically, I remember the incredible golden light reflecting off the water. The connection this family shared was so real and heartfelt.

    While life may not always feel this calm or put together, I believe photography allows us to slow down. Because of this, we can see how amazing our families truly are in these quiet moments. This adorable family was new to the Midwest by way of Texas. Since they were used to the heat, they were perfectly ready for a humid, hot summer family session in Chicago.

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    parents in filed with baby The McCall family during their summer family session in Chicago.
    family in beautiful field The McCall family during their summer family session in Chicago.
    photograph of mom holding baby The McCall family during their summer family session in Chicago.

    Capturing Life on the South Shore

    First, we explored the open fields where the little man could run free. How incredible is his hair? In fact, I couldn’t get enough of it. I love that his parents wanted to capture his spirit wild and free. Furthermore, raising a “Chicago boy” is a big adventure, and documenting these early years is so important.

    Although it was a very warm day, the family’s energy remained high. Consequently, the photos feel effortless and full of joy. If you are planning your own summer family session in Chicago, I always recommend a location like the South Shore Cultural Center. It provides a perfect mix of architecture and nature.

    baby smiling The McCall family during their summer family session in Chicago.
    mom kissing baby The McCall family during their summer family session in Chicago.
    6 mom old baby and dad A mother holding her son during a summer family session in Chicago.
    mom and dad kissing A mother holding her son during a summer family session in Chicago.
    A woman carrying a child walks down a dirt path in a grassy field, while a man stands in the background, all presented in black and white.
    A mother holding her son during a summer family session in Chicago.

    Why Golden Hour is Best for Summer Portraits

    In addition, timing is everything for a summer shoot. Then, as the sun begins to set, the light turns into a soft glow that flatters everyone. As a result, you get those dreamy, sun-drenched portraits that feel like a warm hug.

    Finally, I want to thank the McCall family for choosing me. Whether you are new to the city or have lived here for years, capturing your story is an honor. I hope these images serve as a beautiful welcome to your new life in the Midwest!

    Sun-drenched field at the South Shore during a summer family session in Chicago.
    A family sitting together in a grassy field, with tall plants and flowers surrounding them. The parents are embracing each other while holding a child.

    A couple kissing while holding a baby in between them, with the baby looking curiously at the camera.
    A candid black and white photo of a man smiling and looking back while walking on a pathway surrounded by tall grass, with a woman holding a child in the foreground.
    A woman holding a baby stands in a lush green garden with a unique woven structure in the background.
    A woman holding a child stands in a garden, surrounded by greenery and unique vine sculptures against a cloudy sky.
    A woman in a striped outfit stands in a lush garden, holding a baby, with intricate vine structures and plants surrounding her.
    A woman in a striped dress joyfully holds a toddler in a grassy field, with soft lighting creating a warm atmosphere.

    As a Chicago Family Photographer this session was elite.

  • Evanston IL Family Photographer | Lou’s 6-Month Session

    Evanston IL Family Photographer | Lou’s 6-Month Session

    Evanston IL family photographer

    As an Evanston IL family photographer, I have the unique privilege of watching families grow and change in a very short amount of time. I photographed this sweet little baby’s newborn session earlier this year, and I recently got the chance to see the tremendous growth that can happen in just six months. Specifically, it is amazing to see how much a baby’s personality begins to shine through at this age.

    While time often feels like it moves slowly during those first few weeks of newborn struggles, it suddenly feels like you are half a year into brand new territory. Because of this, 6-month milestone photos are some of my favorites to capture. This family is so beautiful, and they are completely obsessed with their little girl. Consequently, every image we captured was filled with genuine joy and connection.

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    photograph of baby close up Baby Lou’s 6-month portraits with an Evanston IL family photographer
    black and white image of a dad kissing his baby Outdoor family session in a neighborhood by an Evanston IL family photographer
    parents sitting on blanket Outdoor family session in a neighborhood by an Evanston IL family photographer
    dad holding baby Baby Lou’s 6-month portraits with an Evanston IL family photographer

    Why Your Evanston Family Photography Milestone Matters

    First, we used their beautiful neighborhood as the background for this catch-up session. I love the idea of Lou getting older and seeing how much her neighborhood has changed over the years. In addition, seeing her younger parents in front of places she’s grown to love adds such a sentimental layer to the gallery. Furthermore, choosing an outdoor location allowed the family to move naturally and stay relaxed. Seeing this family grow as a Chicago Family Photographer is amazing.

    Although the weather can be unpredictable, the light in Evanston is always stunning for portraits. If you are looking for an Evanston IL family photographer, I highly recommend exploring your own backyard or local park. As a result, the photos will feel deeply personal and timeless. See the full Evanston family photographer portfolio and experience guide.

    dad holding baby in front of house in Evanston IL

    Why This Evanston IL Family Photographer: Choosing the Perfect Location

    Then, we focused on the simple details—the way Lou looks at her parents and the way they embrace her. Soon, these moments will become distant memories as she moves into toddlerhood. For instance, capturing the way she sits up on her own is a milestone worth celebrating.

    Finally, I want to thank this family for trusting me again. Being an Evanston IL family photographer is about more than just pictures; it is about documenting a family’s history as it unfolds.

    walk through neighborhood in Evanston IL
    A baby lying on a blanket in grass, wearing a light blue dress and a headband, reaching out with one hand.
    Two men walk along a sidewalk in a lush green area, one carrying a baby. They appear to be enjoying a casual outing together.

    An infant lying on a soft blanket on the grass, surrounded by pink flowers, while two adults lean in to interact with the baby.
    Two men gently embracing each other with a baby in the middle. The baby is wearing a colorful dress and a headband.
    Two men are kissing a baby in their arms, surrounded by green ivy-covered buildings.
    Two men lovingly embrace while holding a baby outdoors in front of a brick building covered in ivy.
    Two adults walking on a sidewalk beside a brick building covered in ivy, one holding a baby.

  • Itasca IL Family Photography | Little Lucy is ONE

    Itasca IL Family Photography | Little Lucy is ONE

    Itasca IL Family Photography: Little Lucy’s First Birthday

    Itasca IL family photography is the perfect way to celebrate a special milestone like Little Lucy’s first birthday. Brace yourselves, because this session is a cute one! Little Lucy is officially one, and we celebrated with a beautiful outdoor milestone shoot. Specifically, seeing the bond between the siblings in the open field was the highlight of my day. These kiddos are completely adorable; in fact, they genuinely look like twins birthed three years apart!

    family in beautiful field Itasca IL family photographer first birthday session for Little Lucy.

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    While the children are the stars of the show, this whole family is absolutely wonderful. Not to mention, they are just the sweetest humans I have had the pleasure to work with. Because I have essentially photographed all of their big milestones, I feel incredibly lucky to have such loyal clients. Consequently, our sessions always feel relaxed and full of genuine laughter.

    family sitting smiling in field Itasca IL family photographer first birthday session for Little Lucy.
    son on dad's shoulders Itasca IL family photographer first birthday session for Little Lucy.
    mom holding her son Itasca IL family photographer first birthday session for Little Lucy.
    A family enjoying a playful moment outdoors, with two children laughing while their parents watch on a grassy field adorned with wildflowers.
    baby smiling at camera Itasca IL family photographer first birthday session for Little Lucy.
    red head kid smiling Itasca IL family photographer first birthday session for Little Lucy.
    close up of baby girl Itasca IL family photographer first birthday session for Little Lucy.

    Planning a Session with an Itasca IL Family Photography

    My favorite thing about this photography session was the abundance of color. The deep greens of the grass, the wildflowers, and the perfect wardrobe choices made every frame look like a painting. First, we focused on the family as a whole to let the kids get comfortable. In addition, the warm summer light in Itasca provided a glow that you just can’t replicate in a studio.

    Although Lucy is only one, her personality is already so vibrant. Furthermore, if you look back at her Newborn Session, you can see just how much she has grown in a single year. As a result of these frequent sessions, we are building a beautiful visual history of her childhood.

    Finally, if you are looking for an Itasca IL family photography to capture your own family’s milestones, I recommend choosing a location that allows for movement and play. Whether it’s a first birthday or a yearly portrait, these moments deserve to be preserved forever. Thank you to the Colello family for letting me be a part of your story once again!

    A woman in a floral dress is helping a toddler take steps on a gravel path, while two children play nearby in a grassy area.
    A family portrait featuring a woman in a floral dress, a man in a black shirt, a toddler with red hair, and an infant in the woman's arms, standing on a grassy path with trees in the background.
    A family of four, including a mother and father with their two young children, standing close together on a gravel path surrounded by greenery. The mother is holding a toddler, while the father has a young child on his back. They are smiling at each other, with a cloudy sky in the background.
    A family of four walking hand in hand on a gravel path, surrounded by green grass. The mother is wearing a colorful floral dress, while the children are smiling and playing. The father is wearing a casual black shirt and jeans.
    Two young children holding hands on a dirt path surrounded by greenery. The older child is wearing a green shirt and dark pants while the younger child is in a white outfit.
    Two young children play on a gravel path surrounded by greenery, with the girl in a white outfit holding a flower and the boy in a gray shirt smiling widely.
    A toddler with red hair crouching on a gravel path, playing with the ground, surrounded by greenery.
    A cute baby squatting on a gravel path, holding a daisy in one hand, wearing a white outfit with frills and a colorful bead necklace.
    A joyful toddler with red hair peeks from behind a wooden chair while a baby with a floral headband sits on the chair, both are smiling and playing on a gravel path.
    A young child sitting on a wooden chair along a gravel path, wearing a white outfit with a ruffled shoulder and a flower headband. The background features greenery and a cloudy sky.
    A woman lovingly embraces a baby in a natural outdoor setting, surrounded by greenery. The baby appears to be looking seriously at the camera, while the woman leans in close, creating a tender moment.
    A black and white image of a family in a flower-filled field. A woman in a floral dress kisses a man while holding a baby, and a young boy sits nearby, playing in the flowers.

    I loved all of these colors. This family gets so lucky with the most beautiful colors at their sessions. They make me so happy to be their Chicago Family photographer.

  • Family Self Portraits Chicago | Weathering the Storm 

    Family Self Portraits Chicago | Weathering the Storm 

    Family Self Portraits Chicago: Weathering the Storm

    Family self portraits Chicago sessions have always been a way for me to document our truth, and these days, life for us is mostly calm. We have finally arrived at the other side of one of the hardest years of our collective lives. I know that everyone is going through something, as the world is experiencing a massive shift. However, inside our little family, that shift felt like a big wave of so many things.

    A mother and her son sharing a quiet moment during family self portraits Chicago.
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    At the start of 2021, I didn’t know where I would be emotionally. I moved out of the home I shared with my ex and into a tiny apartment. While physically so many things have changed, emotionally it feels like I am still the same—in grief, but slightly stronger. I am a far better person now. Specifically, I am trying my hardest to be who I always believed myself to be. My life is centered around love for my children and myself, full of authenticity, and expanding in my “No’s.”

    boy's lashes black and white portrait
    A young girl standing among tall trees looking toward the camera in natural light.
    Family self portraits Chicago showing a mother giving her son a piggyback ride.

    Finding Gratitude in the Grief

    The thing that has grown the most since the start of this year has been my gratitude. In fact, that has remained a constant throughout our family self portraits Chicago journey. Being grateful for everything I’ve experienced has made my grief become more beautiful. I know now that I can handle whatever life has in store for me. Consequently, I have learned to let go of things out of my control. The storm that has been this year of our lives has served us well.

    My kids are some of the best humans I know. To have been able to be here for them in their own grieving journey has been incredibly healing. They know we’re all still a work in progress and flawed. Nevertheless, they know that no matter how rough life gets, we have each other. Always.

    A black and white image of family self portraits Chicago representing healing.

    Building a Future Together

    I have built that trust with them by showing up day in and day out. Furthermore, I can’t wait to see what the new year has in store for us. I am full of gratitude for my coparent as well. M is an incredible human, and I know he always has my back. Actually, I know I can count on him 200%. I love that we can still do these family self portraits Chicago for the kids.

    As I step into 2022, I am nervous but excited. I am open to learning and making more mistakes if they lead to the growth I need. Ultimately, I have goals and dreams to start. If you’re in the middle of your own storm, my friend, I urge you to listen to yourself. Move forward one step at a time. Do the uncomfortable things that give you peace and leave you full, even though they are painful. May it be an amazing year for you! I will never tire of being a chicago family photographer and capture my loves.

    Adri de la Cruz and her children for their family self portraits Chicago
    Candid shot of a mother laughing while her children play around her in a park.
    Family self portraits Chicago featuring a mother and daughter in a forest.
    A woman holds a young girl in a natural setting, surrounded by trees. They are smiling and sharing a joyful moment outdoors.
    Documentary-style family photography by Chicago artist Adri de la Cruz.
    A father carrying his young daughter in the woods, while a smiling young boy rides on his back, surrounded by greenery.
    a portrait of a divorced family, son, daughter and parents sitting on tall grass
    A black and white photo of a father with two children playing in a natural setting, surrounded by trees and grass.
    A smiling girl in a flowing dress twirls joyfully in a forest setting, surrounded by greenery and sunlight filtering through the trees.
    A boy playfully kisses a girl on the cheek while she laughs in a lush outdoor setting. They are dressed in casual, stylish clothes, and the background features soft greenery.
    Family self portraits Chicago featuring children playing among the trees.
    A close-up black and white portrait of a smiling girl with curly hair, wearing a white top with lace detailing, sitting next to a man with a beard, partially visible, both enjoying a moment together.
    Family self portraits Chicago captured during the golden hour in autumn.
    A woman sitting on the ground in a grassy field, holding a young girl, while a boy stands beside them laughing. The scene is illuminated by soft sunlight against a backdrop of tall grasses and a clear sky.
    A black and white image of a family sitting together in a grassy field, with a father and mother embracing their laughing child.
    Family self portraits Chicago in a serene, wooded forest setting.
    Two children running through a grassy field on a bright day, with one child smiling joyfully while the other follows closely behind.
    A girl and a boy hugging each other playfully in a grassy field on a sunny day.
  • Northerly Island Family Session | Chicago | Lauber Family

    Northerly Island Family Session | Chicago | Lauber Family

    A Heartfelt Goodbye: Northerly Island Family Session

    Planning a Northerly Island family session is the perfect way to capture the essence of Chicago, especially for families preparing for a big move. I may be slightly biased, but families that invite me into their births are the most special to me. That level of trust is truly unparalleled. I was lucky enough to be there for the birth of their little miss. Specifically, I witnessed Lacy be incredibly strong and saw the deep devotion from her husband and birth partner. It was an honor to document such an intimate moment. I photographed this family a few times I want to share their birth session which changed me as an artist.

    A woman in a green dress walking towards a young child in brown overalls, inside a large open structure with metal beams and a city skyline in the background on a sunny day.
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    When she reached out for this Northerly Island family session, I genuinely felt a bit sad. However, I am so happy for them! They are expanding their community and moving closer to family. I wish them all the luck in the world in their new chapter. Thankfully, Instagram allows us to stay in touch so I can see those babies grow up from afar.

    A wide shot of the Northerly Island family session featuring the Sears Tower and Chicago skyline.
    the Lauber family during their Northerly Island family session with the Chicago skyline in the background.

    Capturing Chicago Memories by the Lake

    We decided to choose the city as our backdrop for these “goodbye” portraits. For instance, a Northerly Island family session offers the perfect mix of skyline views and natural lakefront beauty. Chicago is the city that has seen their babies grow up until now. Consequently, it felt right to document their final days here against the skyline they love as a Chicago Family Photographer .

    In addition to the sentimental value, the lighting at Northerly Island is always a photographer’s dream. The wide-open space allows the golden hour to hit just right. Furthermore, the kids had a blast exploring the paths and the big rocks along the shore. I hope it is not “goodbye” forever, but rather a “see you later.”

    A young child wearing a white shirt and overalls, walking joyfully on a surface marked by shadows and light. The background features greenery and a building.
    A woman in a long green dress sitting on a log in a grassy field, holding a guitar with a city skyline in the background.
    Authentically captured moments of a family of four at a Northerly Island family session
    A family walking through a grassy field with scattered rocks under a clear blue sky.
    A family enjoying a day outdoors, with a man climbing rocks, a woman holding a child, and another man sitting on top of the rocks, surrounded by greenery and a clear blue sky.
    A young girl standing on a large limestone rock during a Northerly Island family session
    A smiling child with curly hair wearing a brown overall stands in a grassy field.
    A woman sitting on large rocks, gently kissing a young child who is sitting on her lap Northely island paths
    A young girl standing on a large limestone rock during a Northerly Island family session
    A family enjoying a day outdoors by a body of water, with one child exploring the grassy path while parents share a moment with their other child.
    A mother holding her young child in a natural outdoor setting, both engaged in a moment of connection. The child has curly hair with a bow and is gently reaching for flowers on the ground.
    Full family hug showing connection and love during a Northerly Island family session.
    A man holding hands with a child walking along a rocky shoreline near a lake, with sunlight reflecting on the water.
    A parent and child enjoying a day outdoors, with the child reaching up to touch the leaves of a tree while the parent looks on, surrounded by greenery and rocky terrain.
  • Wrigleyville Baby Photographer Schultz Family session

    Wrigleyville Baby Photographer Schultz Family session

    As a Wrigleyville baby photographer, I have the pleasure of meeting the sweetest families in one of Chicago’s most iconic neighborhoods. Recently, I had the chance to document the Schultz family, and they were truly adorable. Their session reminded me why I love my job so much.

    Specifically, their big sister is still very much a baby at heart, even though she is growing into a “tiny human” body. Toddlers are fascinating because they exist in their own little universe. They walk around like the boss of the household, and rightly so! Because of this unique energy, she reminded me exactly why I love being a Wrigleyville family photographer. I love capturing that “boss” energy before they grow up too fast.

    Schultz family playing together in their living room, captured by a Wrigleyville family photographer.
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    Capturing Beauty in the “Gloomy” Light

    There was so much beauty to capture during our session, even on a typically gloomy Chicago day. Many parents worry about the weather or a lack of sun in their apartment. However, as a professional Wrigleyville family photographer, I know that overcast skies actually provide the softest, most flattering light for portraits. We were able to document the quiet, authentic moments of their daily life without any harsh shadows.

    A toddler girl showing her "boss" personality during a session with a Wrigleyville family photographer.
    Candid moment of the Schultz family on a gloomy Chicago day by a Wrigleyville family photographer.
    the Schultz family walking through the tall prairie grass at Montrose Bird Point Sanctuary, captured by a Wrigleyville family photographer.
    A toddler girl exploring the nature trails at Montrose Bird Point Sanctuary on a misty day with a Wrigleyville family photographer.
    A black and white photo of a smiling father holding his upside-down daughter, while a woman stands in the background, smiling.
    A young child with short blond hair gazes curiously while leaning over a wooden fence in a natural outdoor setting.
    A family gathering in a grassy area, featuring a mother and father with three young children, one of whom is being held and another interacting in the foreground. The setting includes trees and a wooden fence, with a background of flowers.
    A young child in a beige dress leans over a sleeping baby wrapped in a floral blanket on a striped blanket in a grassy area.
    A black and white photograph of a couple sitting together on the grass with a young child, surrounded by trees and a wooden fence.
    A joyful moment of a man lifting a baby in the air while a woman watches, set in a grassy field with trees in the background.

    Tips from a Wrigleyville baby Photographer

    If you are worried about your own session being too dark, here are a few tips:

    • Turn off Overhead Lights: These create yellow tones. Natural light from a window is much softer.
    • Stay Near Windows: I often have families sit on the floor or a bed right next to a window to catch that beautiful, indirect glow.
    • Embrace the Mood: Darker, “moodier” days are perfect for cozy, snuggly photos.

    As a Chicago Family photographer watching this family interact was a highlight of my week. I bet big sister is going to do an incredible job as her sibling grows. Booking a local Wrigleyville baby photographer allows you to preserve these memories right where they happen. In conclusion, I am so grateful the Schultz family invited me in to tell their story.

  • Long Grove Illinois photographer | McCallum Family

    Long Grove Illinois photographer | McCallum Family

    Finding a Long Grove Illinois photographer who can handle large groups is so important for capturing your legacy. This past weekend offered incredible weather for exploring and sessions. Specifically, I had the chance to catch up with the lovely McCallum family. They brought along her sister and family for an extended session. As a Long Grove family photographer, I always enjoy capturing these larger dynamics in a lifestyle setting.

    Karissa is such a kind and wonderful soul. In fact, she is one of those inviting people that everyone should have in their lives. All of her warmth transcends onto her children. Additionally, she and Patrick are doing an amazing job raising those three. I look forward to many years of seeing them grow and expand into their beauty.

    A young child with blonde hair and blue eyes looking serious while sitting with an adult male in a plaid shirt, surrounded by autumn leaves.
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    The Beauty of a Long Grove Family Photographer Session

    Choosing a Long Grove Illinois photographer for your extended family is a great way to document every generation at once. Because everyone was together, we were able to capture the unique bond between the sisters and their children. Furthermore, the autumn light in Long Grove provided a golden backdrop. As a result, the session felt even more magical and timeless.

    Often, families worry that a larger group will be chaotic. However, my lifestyle approach focuses on real connection rather than stiff poses. Consequently, the kids were able to be themselves. Meanwhile, the adults could simply enjoy the moment. Ultimately, these are the images that become true family heirlooms.

    A family portrait featuring six adults and four children, posing together in a park filled with fallen leaves and trees in the background. The adults are smiling and holding the children, who are dressed in cozy outfits, while the atmosphere is warm and cheerful, showcasing a close family bond.

    In addition to the group shots, we made sure to capture individual family units. For example, seeing the kids interact with their cousins was a highlight of the day. Therefore, if you are planning a reunion, consider booking a Long Grove family photographer to tell the whole story. I would love to help you preserve these fleeting seasons of life. Finally, thank you to the McCallums for letting me document your beautiful family again!

    Three young girls holding hands outdoors in a park, wearing matching cream-colored lace dresses with a natural backdrop of trees and fallen leaves.
    A family playing outdoors in fall. A mother smiles while holding a toddler, and a young girl is seen playing in the background among fallen leaves.
    A family of five sitting on a blanket in a wooded area covered with autumn leaves, with the parents sharing a kiss and the children smiling.
    A family sitting on a log in a forest setting. The mother is wearing a yellow dress, the father is in a dark sweater, and they are holding a baby. A toddler stands next to them, playfully raising her hands.
    A collage of three images featuring children in a forested area. The left image shows a smiling girl with long hair in a white sweater, while the center image captures a group of three children walking among fallen leaves and trees. The right image showcases another girl with long hair and a similar white sweater, posing and smiling.
    Two children walking along a leaf-covered path in a wooded area, surrounded by green leaves and trees.
    A group of five people walking through a grassy field surrounded by trees in autumn foliage, with a cloudy sky overhead.
    A family of seven stands together in a grassy field, surrounded by trees in the background. They are smiling and posing for the photo, with children and an infant in arms.
    A family portrait featuring a smiling couple with two young children in a grassy field during fall. The father holds an infant, while the mother cradles a toddler who wears a bow. The background includes trees with autumn leaves. Long Grove Illinois photographer
    A group of five children sitting on a blanket in a grassy field, with two girls laughing, one boy looking joyful, and a baby being held by an older girl. Long Grove Illinois photographer
    A close-up of three children sitting on a blanket in a grassy area. One child is dressed in a red dress with a yellow bow, another in a striped outfit, and the third in a white sweater. They are playing together. Long Grove Illinois photographer
    A smiling young child with blonde hair and a red hair bow sitting on grass, wearing a white knitted dress. Long Grove Illinois photographer
    A man joyfully holds a toddler in the air against a blue sky, with scattered clouds. Long Grove Illinois photographer
    A family poses together in a wooded area during autumn, surrounded by trees with fallen leaves. Long Grove Illinois photographer
    A group of five young children sitting on the ground among autumn leaves in a forest setting, with trees and warm sunlight in the background. Long Grove Illinois photographer
    A group of people, including children, walking along a leaf-covered trail in a wooded area during autumn. Long Grove Illinois photographer
    A father holding his baby in a wooded area during autumn. Long Grove Illinois photographer
    A parent holds a smiling child upside down in a sunny outdoor setting, surrounded by fallen leaves. Long Grove Illinois photographer
    Two women standing together in a sunlit forested area, one wearing a yellow dress and the other wearing a red top, smiling at the camera. Long Grove Illinois photographer
  • Family photography and video Chicago | Starved Rock

    Family photography and video Chicago | Starved Rock

    Family photography and video Chicago it’s something I’ve been wanting to explore for a long time, and this little film of my own kids at Starved Rock is where I finally took that first step.

    No crew, no plan, no script. Just me, my kids, and a camera at one of our favorite places in Illinois.

    Experimenting with Family Photography and Video in Chicago

    I’ll be honest video has always intimidated me. As a photographer I’m comfortable in the stillness of a single frame, but video is a whole different language. This little film is imperfect and short, but making it taught me so much about the power of moving images alongside photography.

    Watching it back, I was struck by what video captures that photos simply can’t the sound of little feet on the trail, the way my kids move through a space, the energy of a whole afternoon condensed into a few minutes. It made me want to offer this to my families too.

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    Why I’m Bringing Video Into My Family Sessions

    My work has always been rooted in documentary storytelling. I don’t ask kids to pose or families to perform. I follow, I observe, I wait for the real thing. Video fits that philosophy perfectly — and pairing it with photography feels like a natural next step.

    If the idea of having both photos and a short film from your session sounds exciting and let’s talk about what that could look like for your family.

    a girl on rocks at starved rock park

    Starved Rock is one of those places that does the work for you. The canyons, the waterfalls, the way the light filters through the trees it’s impossible not to feel something there. For my kids it was all about the adventure, and watching them explore completely on their own terms was a good reminder of why I photograph families the way I do. No prompts, no cheese. Just life.

    family photography and video Chicago kids at Starved Rock
    Chicago family film documentary session