CHICAGO WEDDING & FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

Category: chicago maternity photographer

  • Chicago IL Maternity Photographer at Northerly Island

    Chicago IL Maternity Photographer at Northerly Island

    downtown chicago IL in the back ground with a couple expecting a baby
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    couple kissing chicago il maternity photographer couple in grassy field near northerly island
    northerly island tall grass maternity session
    black and white tall grass backdrop with a couple maternity session
    dog at chicago il maternity photographer couple in grassy field near planetarium
    beautiful pregnant mama in tall grass at northerly island
    chicago il maternity photographer couple in grassy field near planetarium

    A Sunny Chicago Maternity Session

    As a Chicago IL maternity photographer, I’m always looking for ways to make each session feel fresh and full of personality. For this one, I decided to embrace the bright midday sun. Yep high noon! Some photographers avoid it, but I think it gave us the dreamiest glow and such a fun challenge. This gorgeous couple is expecting their very first baby, and the love between them made every image feel so natural and joyful.

    Starting at Northerly Island for a Maternity session

    We kicked things off at Northerly Island, surrounded by tall, golden grasses that felt straight out of a summer daydream. Their sweet pup their first baby came along and completely stole the show. She was playful, goofy, and made sure we captured plenty of “family of three” moments before baby arrives. Those photos ended up being some of my favorites!

    black and white image of couple by the lake holding moms belly at their maternity photography session

    A Peaceful Stop at the Beach

    From there, we walked over to the quiet beach near the Adler Planetarium. The sandy shoreline was peaceful and nearly empty, giving us space to create relaxed and intimate portraits. The soft waves and open skies provided the perfect complement to the couple’s connection and anticipation of parenthood.

    Iconic Chicago Skyline Views

    We ended the session on the walkway directly in front of the Adler Planetarium, with the Chicago skyline standing tall in the background. This location is iconic for a reason it represents the love so many of us share with this city. It was the perfect finale for a maternity session that beautifully combined family, nature, and the urban energy of Chicago.

    Why I Love Lifestyle Maternity Photography in Chicago

    Lifestyle sessions like this are what inspire me most as a Chicago IL maternity photographer. They are about more than just portraits they capture love, anticipation, and the joy of growing a family in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

    black and white portrait of mother at their maternity session
    close up of moms belly at a beach maternity session
    A couple enjoying a playful moment outdoors by the lake, with the Chicago skyline in the background. The woman in a white dress twirls as the man holds her hand, both smiling under a partly cloudy sky.
  • Chicago Family and Maternity Photographer | Natural In-Home Session

    Chicago Family and Maternity Photographer | Natural In-Home Session

    Chicago family and maternity photographer captures a joyful little girl with her expecting parents in the background
    Chicago family and maternity photographer documents a glowing mother holding her baby bump during maternity session
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    Chicago Family and Maternity Photographer in Oak Park, IL

    Chicago family and maternity photographer sessions are some of my favorite moments to capture, and this Oak Park session was especially meaningful. I’ve had the privilege of photographing this family through their first maternity session, their first baby, and now as they prepare to welcome another little one. Watching their family grow and documenting each chapter has been such a beautiful journey.

    Before arriving, I stopped at Broken Tart for a coffee one of my favorite spots in Oak Park. The day was warm and sunny, the kind that makes everything feel golden. Their backyard was the perfect setting for a relaxed, love-filled session. Oak Park always has such a special energy, and I love photographing families here.

    kid running in her backyard at their maternity photography session
    Chicago family and maternity photographer photographs expecting mother holding her baby bump in the backyard garden
    Expecting couple embracing in their Oak Park backyard during family and maternity photography session in Chicago
    Joyful toddler playing with parents during backyard Chicago family and maternity photography session
    Chicago family and maternity photographer captures parents smiling with their toddler in the backyard of their Oak Park home
    Backyard maternity session in Oak Park with Chicago family and maternity photographer documenting tender family moments
    Chicago family and maternity photographer black and white image of mother and daughter

    Planning Your Chicago Family Maternity Session

    There’s something so intimate about photographing a family in their own backyard. It’s familiar and comfortable, which allows everyone to relax and truly be themselves. This family’s yard became the perfect backdrop for both playful and tender moments. Barefoot steps in the grass, quiet embraces, and laughter all came together to tell the story of this season in their lives.

    Photographing Milestones Over Time

    One of the best parts of being a photographer is building relationships with families over the years. I’ve had the joy of documenting this couple’s journey from their first maternity session to the newborn days, and now this chapter as they prepare to welcome another baby. Each time I return, I see new growth, new joy, and deeper connections. It’s such a privilege to preserve these milestones so they can be remembered for years to come.

    mom sitting on her porch steps pregnant and waiting for her baby

    Embracing Spunky Toddlers

    Toddlers bring so much life to a session. Their energy is unpredictable and fun, and that’s exactly what makes the photographs so genuine. This little one kept us all laughing with her big personality, playful spirit, and contagious smile. I love working with spunky toddlers because they challenge me creatively, but they also bring out some of the most heartfelt and authentic moments.

    Front porch family portraits with toddler and expecting mother in Oak Park photographed by Chicago family photographer
    dad and daughter during the maternity photography session
    Chicago family and maternity photographer photographs toddler laughing with parents on the porch steps

    Why I Love Photographing in Oak Park

    Oak Park is one of my favorite suburbs to work in. It has beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and a warm sense of community that always shows through in sessions. Whether I’m photographing in a family’s backyard, on a quiet porch, or exploring one of the parks, Oak Park offers a timeless and cozy backdrop for family and maternity photography.

    Final Thoughts

    This Oak Park maternity and family session was filled with love, laughter, and anticipation for the little one soon to join them. It reminded me once again why I do what I do to capture not just images, but stories of connection, growth, and love. As a Chicago family and maternity photographer, I feel so honored to walk alongside families during these seasons and create memories that will be treasured forever.

    mother by the window photograph in black and white
    Spunky toddler playing on the porch during Oak Park maternity and family photography session
    gorgeous pregnant mama by a window
    Relaxed Oak Park maternity session on the family’s front porch documented by Chicago photographer
    A young girl holding a toy camera with a unicorn design, preparing to take a picture indoors.

    Looking for more inspiration? View my full guide as an Oak Park family photographer to see my favorite local locations and styling tips.

  • Lake Michigan Maternity Photos | Chicago Photographer

    Lake Michigan Maternity Photos | Chicago Photographer

    Lake Michigan maternity photography session

    A Lake Michigan Maternity Session Filled with Light

    Taking some stunning Lake Michigan maternity photos is my favorite in Chicago, I know how special the lakefront can be. It offers a timeless backdrop for families and milestones. This maternity session was filled with golden light and calm weather, which made it even more memorable. Mom is expecting her third baby, and the love surrounding her was clear from the very beginning.

    Big Sisters Full of Excitement

    The highlight of the session was working with the two older sisters. They were full of laughter and energy as they ran across the sand. Both girls are eagerly awaiting their new sibling, and it showed in every hug and smile. Their sweet bond was touching, and it was a joy to capture those moments. In addition, their playful pup joined us, bringing even more fun to the session.

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    A pregnant woman in a white blouse stands by the ocean, gently touching her belly as the sun sets in the background. Lake Michigan maternity photos
    A couple embracing passionately, smiling and showing intimacy against a bright background. Lake Michigan maternity photos

    Golden Light Over the Lake

    Photographing on Lake Michigan always feels inspiring. However, this evening was especially breathtaking. The sun set in soft golden tones that wrapped the family in warmth. Each image reflected love and connection, from the parents’ quiet moments together to the sisters’ contagious joy. Because of the light, every detail felt timeless and full of life.

    A couple walking hand in hand along a sandy beach, with the ocean in the background and sunlight shining brightly. Lake Michigan maternity photos
    A pregnant woman in a white shirt lies on a brown blanket, smiling and gently touching her belly, with a soft, warm background of nature during golden hour. Lake Michigan maternity photos
    A pregnant woman standing outdoors near a beach, gently holding her baby bump, illuminated by warm sunlight filtering through trees.
    Two young girls holding hands and playing on the beach with a blurred background of a couple by the water. One girl wears a white dress, and the other wears a patterned dress.
    A young girl standing by the sea, smiling while holding a bouquet of flowers. The ocean waves can be seen in the background.
    baby ultrasound Lake Michigan maternity photographer Chicago
    mom in the water Lake Michigan maternity photographer Chicago

    Looking Ahead to Their At-Home Birth

    What made this session even more personal is that I’ll soon be documenting this family’s at-home birth as well. Being invited into both their maternity journey and their birth story is such an honor, and I can’t wait to capture the raw, beautiful emotions of welcoming a new life. This Lake Michigan maternity session was the perfect chapter, and the next one will unfold right in the heart of their home.

    The Beauty of Lake Michigan Maternity Photos

    Photographing on the shores of Lake Michigan always feels inspiring. Specifically, this evening was breathtaking because the sun set in soft golden tones. Each image reflected deep connection, from the parents’ quiet moments to the sisters’ contagious joy.

    Furthermore, choosing a lakefront location provides a timeless canvas. Whether you want the urban energy of the skyline or the natural texture of the sand, Lake Michigan maternity photos capture the raw essence of waiting for a new life. If you are looking for a location that feels both vast and intimate, the Chicago lakefront is always my top recommendation.

  • Chicago Maternity Travel Session | Fresno, CA

    Chicago Maternity Travel Session | Fresno, CA

    While I am primarily a Chicago photographer, I recently had the joy of documenting this Chicago maternity travel session in the beautiful sun-drenched fields of Fresno, CA. Even though we traded the city skyline for the West Coast, bringing my signature style to new locations is one of my favorite parts of the job.

    by the river chicago il maternity photographer
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    My brother is five years younger than me, and I couldn’t be prouder of the man and father he has become. Watching him step so naturally into fatherhood has been one of the greatest joys of my life. His wife my sweet sister-in-law has been such an incredible mom to my smart, spirited niece and now to their newest addition, my precious baby nephew. Being an aunt is so much fun, and I soak up every moment I can with them, even though the distance between Chicago and Fresno always tugs at my heart.

    Life as a Chicago Maternity Travel Photographer

    laughing family sharing an embrace at my on location maternity photography
    A couple sitting together on a rock in a grassy field, with the woman gently cradling her pregnant belly.

    The Beauty of Maternity Photography Chicago IL

    Many people think they need to go to a park. However, I find that staying home creates a more intimate feel. Specifically, it allows you to relax in your own space. Because we were at home, we could include the nursery. This makes the images feel personal. Therefore, the session was very calm.

    The light in their home was perfect. Furthermore, it highlighted the mama’s beautiful glow. While pregnancy can be a whirlwind, these sessions allow you to slow down. In fact, we focused only on the family connection. Ultimately, these moments are the ones you will want to remember.

    Natural light maternity portraits by Chicago maternity photographer

    This session also felt like coming full circle. Years ago, when I was just starting out as a photographer, my brother would help me during shoots. To now be photographing his family, celebrating this next chapter, was emotional and incredibly meaningful. Fresno may be far from Chicago, but moments like these remind me how lucky I am to be both a sister and a photographer.

    Pregnant woman in a black dress playfully tossing her hair by a lake, with hills in the background, captured in black and white.
    portait of mom and odaughter holding her belly. Chicago maternity photographer capturing motherhood and family love
    father leading mom and daughter towards big rock. Family maternity session in Fresno by Chicago maternity photographe
    family near a big rock near a beautiful lake for their on location maternity session. Chicago maternity photographer capturing motherhood and family love

    Book Your Maternity Photography Chicago IL

    This season of life is very fleeting. As a result, having professional photos is a wonderful gift. Your children will love seeing these images later. They show how much they were already loved. Indeed, a maternity session is the first chapter of your story. If you want to book your Maternity Photography Chicago IL, I would love to help. I am ready to document this milestone for you. Whether you are booking a local date or a Chicago maternity travel session, my goal is always to capture the authentic glow of motherhood.

    dad with a film camera taking photographs of his family. Outdoor maternity portraits in Fresno fields by Chicago maternity photographer
    big sister running towards camera with parents in the backdrop
    A man carries a child on his shoulders while walking towards a pregnant woman standing on rocky terrain with hills in the background.
    A couple standing together in a grassy field, surrounded by rolling hills, with one person gently holding another.
    mom and daughter playing in water On-location Fresno maternity shoot by Chicago maternity photographer
    dad and mom close up sitting on rocks . Family maternity session in Fresno by Chicago maternity photographe
    dad and big sister playing on the rocks for the on location maternity photo shoot On-location Fresno maternity shoot by Chicago maternity photographer
    family sandwich portrait On-location Fresno maternity shoot by Chicago maternity photographer
  • South Shore Maternity Photos | The Adri Photo Co.

    South Shore Maternity Photos | The Adri Photo Co.

    South Shore Maternity Photos in Chicago

    We finally made it happen! After multiple reschedules due to a rainy Chicago summer, we managed to capture these special South Shore maternity photos. Even though it was early in the morning, the heat was already rising, but the lake remained perfectly still and beautiful.

    This lovely family is anxiously awaiting the arrival of their fourth member—a baby girl! They are so ready and excited to welcome her. During this time at the lake, we explored the quiet shoreline and the lush greenery nearby, capturing the authentic connection this family shares. I am so honored to be a part of their birth team, and this session is a part of my birth Bundle. Which includes a maternity, the birth coverage and a newborn session. All of which I am so excited to photograph. Seeing a mother through the complete story is one of the best parts of being a birth photographer. I get to bear witness to it all.

    A pregnant woman in a floral dress stands on sandy ground surrounded by tall grass and trees, while a man gently embraces her from behind. South Shore Maternity Session
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    The Beauty of a Sunrise Beach Session

     The South Shore Cultural Center area is one of my favorite spots for motherhood portraits because of the variety it offers. You get the soft sand of the beach, the architectural interest of the center, and the quiet nature trails all in one location. For this specific morning, the empty beach allowed the family to play and be themselves without the typical Chicago crowds.

    A family walking on a wooden boardwalk through lush green grass and trees, with the mother in a floral dress, the father in a t-shirt, and a child being carried. South Shore Maternity Session

    Documenting Your Visual Legacy 

    As a Chicago Maternity photographer, I focus on unposed, documentary-style moments. Whether it’s a beach portrait or an at-home newborn session, my goal is to create a visual legacy. Seeing this big brother-to-be interact with his parents by the water was such a highlight of our morning.

    I hope you enjoy this gallery!

    A pregnant woman wearing a floral dress stands happily with her partner in a sandy area, while a young child plays near a tree trunk. South Shore Maternity Session
    A couple walking on a sandy beach near the water, with one wearing a floral dress and the other in a white shirt, while a young boy in a blue shirt admires a white boat nearby. South Shore Maternity Session
    A young child with curly hair playing in shallow water, creating ripples in the calm surface. South Shore Maternity Session
    Pregnant woman sitting on sand near a grassy hill, wearing a floral dress, with a serene expression. South Shore Maternity Session
    A peaceful beach scene featuring a lifeguard tower with red flags, a child playing in the sand, and seagulls on the shore, surrounded by greenery.
    A pregnant woman in a floral dress poses at the beach, with water in the background. South Shore Maternity Session
    A black and white photograph of a beach scene, featuring a man and a child walking toward the water while a woman stands nearby, all against a serene sky and calm ocean.
    A pregnant woman stands on a sandy beach, gazing out at the calm water and distant skyline, with a child playing in the foreground. The image is in black and white. South Shore Maternity Session
    A pregnant woman in a floral dress sitting on a log in a lush green setting, with her partner beside her and a young child playfully reaching out to them.
    A pregnant woman in a floral dress leans against a log, with a male partner standing close behind her in a softly lit outdoor setting.
    A pregnant woman stands by a calm body of water, gazing thoughtfully into the distance, surrounded by greenery and a city skyline in the background.
    Black and white photo of a pregnant woman in a floral dress embracing a man, sharing a kiss in a natural setting.
    A woman in a floral dress holding a young child with curly hair in a nature setting, smiling as the child leans in to kiss her.
  • Hanover Park Maternity Photos | Sarah’s Home Birth Journey

    Hanover Park Maternity Photos | Sarah’s Home Birth Journey

    Creating these Hanover Park maternity photos for Sarah was such a heartfelt experience. There are truly no words for the beauty and connection of this family. I loved being the Chicago Maternity photographer who captured these beautiful images.

    Sarah is expecting her second child, and they are planning a home birth—I am so incredibly honored to say that I’ll be there to capture that entire journey for them. How cool is that?

    I first met this family during a nursing session I hosted for local moms. Breastfeeding is so near and dear to my heart, and it felt like the perfect way to connect with women in my community. Sarah brought along her sweet baby boy then, and seeing him again, I can tell he is just as sweet as ever. He is clearly so ready to be a big brother.

     

    A couple embracing in a grassy field by a lake, with one partner wearing a floral dress and the other in a patterned shirt. Hanover Park maternity photos

    Capturing Authenticity with Hanover Park Maternity Photos

    As a specialist in unposed, soulful storytelling, I love documenting the quiet, anticipation-filled chapters of a family’s story. Sarah’s session in the suburbs was a beautiful reflection of this. Notably, I first met this family through complimentary nursing sessions I offered for local moms. Since breastfeeding is a topic so near and dear to my heart, it felt like a natural way to connect with my community.

    Sarah brought along her sweet baby boy, who is clearly so excited to become a big brother. Although this specific session felt a bit rushed due to the unpredictable weather, I am so pleased with the images we captured. Fortunately, the overcast skies provided a soft, cinematic light that perfectly suited their laid-back and awesome energy.

    Furthermore, these portraits serve as the perfect ‘sneak peek’ into the next chapter I get to document for them. Specifically, transitioning from their maternity portraits to their birth session allows me to tell a complete and honest story of their homecoming. Ultimately, seeing a family grow through my lens is the greatest part of my work.

    If you are interested in a similar experience, please feel free to browse my maternity photography portfolio (Internal Link). Additionally, for those looking for beautiful natural spots in the area, I highly recommend checking out Mallard Lake Forest Preserve (Outbound Link) for stunning, scenic backdrops. These trails provide the perfect setting for a quiet morning session.

    In conclusion, I cannot wait to capture the rest of Sarah’s story. Ultimately, these unposed moments are the ones that carry the most weight as the years pass. Take a look at their session below.”

    A pregnant woman standing in a field of tall grass, wearing a floral dress, with her hands resting on her belly and eyes closed. Hanover Park maternity photos
    A family standing together in a grassy field, with a father holding a child and a mother embracing them, under a cloudy sky. Hanover Park maternity photos
    A woman lies peacefully in a field of wildflowers, wearing a floral dress and cradling her pregnant belly. In the background, a family of three enjoys a moment of laughter and connection among the tall grass. Hanover Park maternity photos
    Hanover Park maternity photos
    Hanover Park maternity photos
    Hanover Park maternity photos
    Hanover Park maternity photos
    Hanover Park maternity photos
    A woman holding a young child near a calm lake surrounded by greenery, with an overcast sky.

  • Hanover Park Family Photos | The Lunde Family

    Hanover Park Family Photos | The Lunde Family

    This sweet family is soon welcoming a third boy, and capturing their story through Hanover Park family photos is always such an effortless joy. They make my job as a documentary photographer so easy! Since we were working around nap times for this session, mom brought along some raisins as a little bribe—and they worked like a charm to keep the energy fun and light.

    A series of three images featuring a toddler exploring outdoors. The first image shows the child looking down, with a blurred background of grass. The second image captures the child with a thoughtful expression while holding a finger to their mouth. The third image depicts the child reaching up towards an out-of-frame object, revealing soft curls and wearing a gray straps shirt. Hanover Park Family Photos

    Capturing Authentic Hanover Park Family Photos

    There is something so bittersweet about expecting a third child; knowing your whole world is about to change as you become outnumbered by little ones. I loved capturing these final moments as a family of four before their new bundle arrives. We had such a blast exploring together—I hope they enjoy these nostalgic images as much as I do. I love capturing growing families as a Maternity photographer in Chicago.

    A family of four spending time together in a grassy area, with two children playing and interacting with their parents, who are sitting on a colorful quilt. The scene captures a moment of togetherness and joy.
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    There is a beautiful, quiet magic in documenting a family right on the edge of a big change. For the Lunde family’s latest session, we captured Hanover Park family photos that were all about real connection and unscripted play. Even with the challenge of nap schedules (shoutout to the raisins for saving the day!), the result was a gallery full of genuine, unposed moments.

    Transitioning to a family of five is such a milestone. It was an honor to document the raw beauty of their current dynamic before their third son joins the crew. These images feel like a nostalgic keepsake of this specific chapter, and I’m so excited to share this adventure with them. My editing has changed so much, I love how cooler tones these are but how different. This location also has been such a staple in my work, I love the tall grass. The water and the trees, all suit so well towards my documentary style of Photography. I love sharing stories.

    A family of four standing outdoors in a grassy area, with parents holding their children. The mother is wearing a white dress, while the father is dressed in a light blue shirt. The children are in casual outfits, with one child being held in the mother's arms and another in the father's arms.
    A pregnant woman wearing a white dress standing barefoot on a path, with trees and sunlight in the background.
    A couple embracing in a grassy field, sharing an intimate moment while the woman cradles her pregnant belly. One image captures their foreheads touching, while others show close-ups of their expressions. Hanover Park Family Photos
    A couple standing in a field, with the pregnant woman gently holding her belly while the man places his hands over hers.
    A family of four enjoying a sunny outdoor moment, with parents smiling at their toddler who is sitting on one parent's lap, surrounded by nature. Hanover Park Family Photos
    A family enjoying a day by a lake, with a father holding a toddler's hand while standing in the water, and two young children playing nearby. The scene is illuminated by soft sunlight, creating a warm, outdoor atmosphere. Hanover Park Family Photos
    A pregnant woman in a white dress stands by a lake, smiling, while a young boy in a blue shirt and yellow pants watches. A little girl in a blue outfit plays in the water with a man in a light blue shirt nearby.
    Pregnant woman in a white dress cradles her baby bump near a lake, while a toddler explores the shoreline. Hanover Park Family Photos
    A toddler in a blue overall stands in shallow water, holding a small rock, while two adults and another child walk in the background. The scene features a reflection of sunlight on the water, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Hanover Park Family Photos
    A family of four stands by a riverbank, with parents lovingly looking at each other. The mother is pregnant, wearing a flowing white dress, while the father gently touches her belly. Two young children are present, one boy standing beside the mother and a baby being held by the father. The scene is lit by natural sunlight, surrounded by tall grasses and a serene landscape. Hanover Park Family Photos