Category: Chicago Sessions

  • Lincoln Park Family Photos | The Moran Family 

    Lincoln Park Family Photos | The Moran Family 

    The Moran Family: A Warm Autumn Day for Lincoln Park Family Photos

    There is nothing quite like a crisp autumn afternoon for Lincoln Park family photos. Fall really did spoil us with its beauty this year! When I arrived for the Moran family session, the park was buzzing with life. For example, a young couple was enjoying a date nearby overlooking the water. I honestly felt a little bad for ruining their view while chasing a toddler! However, I think they enjoyed the show. Watching a photographer run after a busy little girl is always amusing.

    The Moran family smiling together for their Lincoln Park family photos.

    The Moran family was such a joy to work with. Thankfully, we were blessed with a very warm day. Their baby girl loved the opportunity to run, play, and explore with her parents. As I always say, toddlers truly run the session! Consequently, my goal is always to follow their lead. This allows me to capture the genuine magic of their curiosity. Furthermore, when children lead the way, we get those authentic smiles that parents cherish forever.

    family walking up a hill Lincoln Park photographer

    Why Choose to do Family Portraits?

    Lincoln Park has a beautiful array of trees. The pond makes the scenery feel like an escape right in the city. For instance, the autumn light filters through the changing leaves to create a timeless backdrop for Lincoln Park family photos. In addition, the park offers great variety. You can find everything from the nature boardwalk to hidden garden paths. This makes it a premier spot for families looking to capture the essence of Chicago.

    family walking in a park holding hands
    Parents holding their daughter’s hands while walking during Lincoln Park family photos.
    Beautiful autumn scenery in Chicago during a Lincoln Park family photos session.
    Lifestyle portraits of a young family for their Lincoln Park family photos.
    Mom lifting her daughter into the air with the Lincoln Park Nature Boardwalk in the background.
    A playful family moment showing a father holding his child upside down, while a mother assists in lifting the child. They are outdoors in a green park setting with trees and a city skyline in the background.
    A family enjoying a playful moment outdoors in a park, with two adults holding a blanket above a young child who is playfully reaching up.
    Close-up of a toddler girl's face as she explores the autumn leaves in a Chicago park.
    A young child stands on grass under a tree, wearing a denim overalls and a light sweater, holding a leaf and looking curiously at the camera.
    A young girl wearing a denim overall shirt plays with leaves on the ground in a park.
    A family of three enjoying time outdoors, with the mother sitting on a stone ledge and smiling at the father, who is kneeling beside their young daughter, who is exploring the area. The scene is surrounded by greenery.
    Mom and daughter sharing a quiet hug under a canopy of changing trees.
    Mom and daughter sharing a quiet hug under a canopy of changing trees.
    A mother lovingly kissing her toddler while holding her hand. The toddler looks curiously at the camera, wearing a denim overall and a long-sleeve shirt.
    A sunset embrace between parents during their Lincoln Park family photos.
    Professional Chicago family photography in the heart of Lincoln Park.
    A joyful scene in a park featuring a woman and a young girl playing together. The woman is wearing a floral dress, while the girl is in a blue denim outfit. They are surrounded by greenery and trees, with the girl running and the woman holding her in a playful moment.
    A family enjoying a day outdoors in a park, with a young child playing in the grass while the parents walk nearby.

    Capturing Genuine Connections

    As a result of the beautiful weather and the family’s playful energy, there were so many favorites. As a Chicago Family Photographer when we allow kids to be kids, the photos reflect the true heart of the family. Additionally, the combination of the skyline views and the natural park setting provides a perfect balance.

    Finally, if you are planning your own Lincoln Park family photos, remember to embrace the season. Whether the leaves are just turning or are in full golden bloom, the park provides a stunning canvas. However, It was a blast capturing the Moran family’s story in the heart of Chicago. Lastly, I cannot wait to see these images displayed in their home.

  • Lincoln Park Family Session | Chicago Family Photographer

    Lincoln Park Family Session | Chicago Family Photographer

    I had such a wonderful time capturing this Lincoln Park family session near the Honeycomb. The Amador family brought so much joy to the area. Specifically, it was a pleasure to document their toddler’s curiosity as we explored the boardwalks together. Because the lighting was so soft, every photo felt natural and bright.

    Candid parents portrait at a Lincoln Park family session

    Why a Lincoln Park Family Session is Special

    The Honeycomb structure is an iconic Chicago landmark; consequently, it provides a unique architectural backdrop for portraits. In addition to the beautiful design, the surrounding nature offers a peaceful escape from the city noise. For example, the Amador family loved letting their little one explore the wooden paths while I captured those authentic, unposed moments.

    Candid Moments Near the Zoo

    Furthermore, these sessions are all about the connection between parents and their children. Because the Lincoln Park Zoo area is so walkable, we were able to move between locations easily. Although it was a busy afternoon, we found plenty of quiet spots for the family to just be themselves. Ultimately, these are the memories that matter most.

    daughter chasing a duck, parents laughing looking at each other Candid parents portrait at a Lincoln Park family session
    mom and daughter embrace Candid parents portrait at a Lincoln Park family session
    more embracing photographs Candid parents portrait at a Lincoln Park family session
    baby playing on a blanket Candid parents portrait at a Lincoln Park family session
    Lincoln park Candid parents portrait at a Lincoln Park family session
    baby portrait Candid parents portrait at a Lincoln Park family session
    spring blooms behind family Candid parents portrait at a Lincoln Park family session
    dad and daughter above his head Candid parents portrait at a Lincoln Park family session
    Toddler exploring during a Lincoln Park family session
    family near the pond at Lincoln park
    A mother kissing her daughter while holding her in a natural setting, surrounded by greenery and soft light.
    A father holds his daughter playfully in a field, as she smiles broadly. The daughter wears an orange sweater and a leopard print top, while the father embraces her with joy. In the background, city buildings can be seen.
    A young girl in an orange jacket lying in grass, smiling up at another person standing above her, while a couple walks hand in hand in the background among trees.
    A family enjoying a walk in a grassy field, with trees in the background. The parents are engaged in a loving moment while the child holds onto the mother's arm, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere.
    A family playing and interacting within a unique wooden structure with arches, featuring a parent, a child, and another parent, against a backdrop of greenery and urban scenery.
    A family enjoying time together outdoors, with a woman holding a child and a man smiling in the background. The setting features unique wooden architecture and green surroundings.
    A young girl running joyfully in a large open space with an artistic wooden structure in the background, accompanied by two adults who are smiling and enjoying the moment.
    A mother playfully swings her daughter at a modern wooden pavilion, surrounded by greenery and city buildings in the background.
    A couple embracing under a wooden arch structure with a skyline in the background, including the Willis Tower, surrounded by greenery and a body of water.
    A couple is enjoying a moment in a green park, with a city skyline visible in the background. The man is holding the woman in his arms on the left side, while on the right side, the woman playfully lifts a child, both smiling and interacting happily amidst lush foliage.
    A joyful family moment outdoors featuring a woman and man sitting on steps, laughing together, while a girl stands playfully in between them holding a flower.
    A family sitting outside near a stone building, laughing and enjoying time together. A woman in a light cardigan and a man in a dark sweater are engaged in conversation, while a young girl in an orange outfit stands nearby, smiling and holding a toy.
    A family of three sitting on stone steps, enjoying a playful moment together outdoors. The mother is laughing while holding a flower, the father is engaging with their smiling daughter, who is wearing an orange outfit.
    A couple smiling and holding hands in a sunlit outdoor setting, with a cozy building and trees in the background.
    Couple embracing on a stone pathway in front of a historic house, surrounded by blooming trees and greenery, with a child playing nearby.

    Specifically, one of my favorite parts of a Lincoln Park family session is how the landscape changes with the light. The Honeycomb structure provides a unique backdrop; consequently, it contrasts beautifully with the natural greenery.

    As a chicago family photographer I love letting their little one explore safely while I capture those authentic moments. Because the nature boardwalk is so peaceful, these sessions are perfect for documenting the connection between parents and children. In addition, the ducks and local wildlife always add a touch of magic to the day. We finished our session at the Ice Cream shoppe near the entrance of the zoo. Summer in Chicago is just unmatched if you ask me. The vibes are dreamy, with th sun, the wind and the laughter in the air.

  • Evanston lighthouse maternity session | Allyson + Conall

    Evanston lighthouse maternity session | Allyson + Conall

    I loved every minute of this Evanston lighthouse maternity session with Allyson and Conall. Allyson mentioned she fell in love with this location because it felt like home. and capturing their story at the historic was truly special. Specifically,the way the sand dunes met the water created a peaceful backdrop for their portraits.

    Why Choose an Evanston Lighthouse Maternity Session?

    The lighthouse area holds a deep connection for this couple. Because Conall grew up in Evanston and Allyson is from Indiana. the lakefront felt like the perfect bridge between their two stories. In addition, the dunes provided a texture that reminded Allyson of her childhood home. Consequently, every frame we captured felt like a piece of their history coming together. See the full Evanston family photographer portfolio and experience guide.

    COUPLE EXPECTING A BABY HUGGING Evanston lighthouse maternity session at Grosse Point

    Capturing Anticipation by the Lake

    Furthermore, maternity sessions are quickly becoming a favorite of mine. Although there is often a “storm” of nerves before a baby arrives. there is also so much visible love. For example, seeing how these two looked at each other made the cloudy weather feel warm and bright. Ultimately, I am a lucky girl to capture these moments of devotion before their sweet little boy arrives.

    DAD HUGGING THE BELLY Evanston lighthouse maternity session at Grosse Point
    closeup of belly Evanston lighthouse maternity session at Grosse Point
    COUPLE EXPECTING HOLDING HANDS Evanston lighthouse maternity session at Grosse Point
    portrait of mom and dad to be Evanston lighthouse maternity session at Grosse Point
    A couple shares a tender moment outdoors, embracing near a historic building with large windows. The woman, in a white dress, leans into the man, who wears a patterned shirt and suspenders. The scene is framed by greenery, conveying a romantic and intimate atmosphere.
    A couple embraces, with the man kissing the woman's forehead as she cradles her pregnant belly, set against a backdrop of large windows.
    A couple stands together in a garden setting, embracing. The woman, wearing a white dress, cradles her pregnant belly while looking lovingly at her partner. The man, dressed in a shirt with suspenders, leans in to kiss her forehead. Background features large windows of a rustic building and greenery.
    A smiling pregnant woman wearing a white dress, sitting on a blanket surrounded by green plants and blue flowers, posing in a serene outdoor setting.
    A smiling woman dressed in a white flowing dress sits outdoors, surrounded by flowers, in a black and white photograph.
    A couple walking on a path in a natural setting, surrounded by greenery and trees. The woman is wearing a flowing white dress, while the man is dressed in a light-colored shirt and dark pants. They appear to be sharing a moment together.
    A couple walking along a sandy path through grass and sparse plants on a cloudy day, with a second image showing them embracing in a scenic landscape.
    A couple embraces on a sandy beach surrounded by tall grass under a cloudy sky.
    A pregnant woman standing barefoot on a sandy beach, wearing a white, flowing dress. She is smiling and gently cradling her baby bump, with a backdrop of clouds and grass.
    A woman with long, wavy hair smiles softly while looking over her shoulder on a beach, with dark clouds in the sky.
    A couple smiling and leaning towards each other while sitting on a sandy beach, surrounded by grass.
    A couple embracing and resting their foreheads together, while the woman cradles her pregnant belly, in a serene natural setting.
    A couple seated on a blanket in a grassy area, sharing a kiss.
    A couple holding hands while walking on a sandy hill, with lush greenery and a lighthouse in the background under a cloudy sky.
    A pregnant woman in a flowing white dress stands on a sandy area with grass, smiling at the camera against a backdrop of cloudy skies and trees.
    A couple standing in shallow water by the shore, smiling at the camera. The woman wears a flowing white dress, while the man is dressed in a patterned shirt and suspenders. The background features a calm lake and overcast skies.
    Evanston lighthouse maternity session at Grosse Point
    couple walking along the beach Evanston lighthouse maternity session at Grosse Point
    couples by the water Evanston lighthouse maternity session at Grosse Point

    Maternity Portraits at Grosse Point

    Ultimately, I am as Chicago Maternity photographer I’m lucky to capture these moments of devotion before their sweet little boy arrives. If you are looking for more inspiration. you can check out my recent to see more Chicago-area portraits. Documenting this season of life is such an honor. and I can’t wait to see how this family’s story continues to grow as they welcome their new addition. Every Evanston lighthouse maternity session I photograph reminds me why I love storytelling through my lens. The lakefront truly offers a timeless beauty that mirrors the excitement of a growing family. Don’t forget to stop at downtown Evanston and visit some amazing locations for coffee my fvorite is colectivo.

  • Sauk Village family photographer | Baby Solomon

    Sauk Village family photographer | Baby Solomon

    I cannot believe how lucky we got with this warm day for our Sauk Village family photographer  session.. It was such a joy to see big sister Selah again. Specifically, her curiosity and smiles made the day effortless. Because we had worked together before, she remembered our last session. She was so cooperative even with baby Solomon in tow.

    mom walking with baby Santiago family posing for their Sauk Village session

    Why Choose an Outdoor Sauk Village Family Session?

    The lighting during a Sauk Village family photographer can truly transform a forest preserve. It becomes a magical space. Consequently, the blanket of sunshine allowed me to capture the Santiago family’s calm connection. In addition to the lovely weather, the natural water and greenery provided a peaceful setting. These elements were perfect for their family of four portraits.

    daughter smiling and dancing with dad Santiago family posing for their Sauk Village session
    dad and daughter hugging Santiago family posing for their Sauk Village session
    dad playing with daughter in beautiful sunshine Santiago family posing for their Sauk Village session
    dad and daughter playing Santiago family posing for their Sauk Village session
    A family enjoying a moment by the water, with a father holding a baby while kissing the mother, who is wearing a red dress. A young girl in a white dress stands beside them.
    mom and dad embracing their newborn Santiago family posing for their Sauk Village session
    A loving family portrait featuring a mother and father gently leaning their heads together while cradling their newborn baby, who is wearing an orange outfit, against a sunlit outdoor backdrop.
    newborn baby boy looking at parentsOutdoor newborn photography during a Sauk Village family session
    sister kissing baby boy Outdoor newborn photography during a Sauk Village family session
    Outdoor newborn photography during a Sauk Village family session
    family of four by the water Big sister and baby brother at a Sauk Village family session
    mom kissing baby on head Big sister and baby brother at a Sauk Village family session
    mom kissing the top of her new sons head
    dancing in the subnshine with mom dad and baby Sauk Village family session at the forest preserve
    A child's hand placing a dandelion on another child's head outdoors.
    A close-up of a small baby in an orange outfit, sitting on the lap of an adult surrounded by family members. The adults are seated on grass, with some wearing colorful clothing. The focus is on the baby's curious expression.
    A family sitting on a grassy field, with two children and a baby. The parents are engaged in a loving exchange, surrounded by trees and a setting sun.
    A family of four is captured in a cozy outdoor setting, with a couple sharing a kiss while holding their baby. The baby, dressed in a bright orange outfit, is cradled in the mother's arms. The scene is warm and intimate, showcasing love and connection among family members.
    A black and white image on the left shows a couple sharing a tender moment while holding their baby against a grassy background. The right side features a colorful image of the same family, with the couple sitting together on the grass, surrounded by their children, who are playfully exploring and interacting with each other.
    A mother tenderly holds her baby, both smiling and gazing at each other during sunset in a grassy field.
    A close-up of a baby's feet in an orange outfit being gently held by an adult hand, with a red fabric background and a small white flower nearby.
    A father holding a baby in an orange outfit, with a young girl reaching for the baby, set against a softly lit outdoor background at sunset.
    A family enjoying a moment outdoors at sunset, with a man holding a baby and a woman in a red dress, while a young child in a white dress runs around amidst blooming trees.
    A black and white photograph of a family of three in a forested area. A man holds a baby while a woman leans in close, showing warmth and affection. Soft, blurred background with trees and a fading light.
    A black and white image of a man joyfully holding a baby above him outdoors.
    A couple embraces in a wooded area, surrounded by trees, with a soft blur effect.
    A couple embraces in a wooded area during sunset, surrounded by tall trees and lush greenery.

    Capturing Newborn Moments in Sauk Village

    Furthermore, seeing the love between siblings during an outdoor newborn session is always a highlight. Although Chicago weather can be unpredictable, everything aligned perfectly for this day. Baby Solomon was just as adorable as his older sister. In fact, seeing them together was a total dream.

    Ultimately, these are the memories that celebrate a new chapter of life. This Sauk Village family session reminds me why I love storytelling. The local forest preserves offer a timeless beauty. This mirrors the excitement of a growing family. Therefore, if you want a quiet, natural spot near Chicago, the is a top recommendation for sunny portraits.

    As a Chicago Newborn Photographer watching Selah interact with her new brother was precious. She was so protective and gentle, which made for some of my favorite candid shots of the day. As a photographer, I aim to capture these fleeting moments of transition. A family of three becoming a family of four is a big milestone. I am so honored the Santiagos chose me to document this beautiful arrival under the Chicago sun. 

  • Jackson Park self portraits | Chicago Motherhood Photography

    Jackson Park self portraits | Chicago Motherhood Photography

    Well hello there. I dragged my kids out for some Jackson Park self portraits and a new adventure. You want to know something? It felt amazing. I’ve missed getting behind the lens, I used to do it so damn much before. It always felt like it pushed my growth. I think I’m currently stifling my creativity. So tragic right? I’m not sure why I’m holding my self back. When I know I can do anything and everything.

    mom and daughter in front of water Jackson Park self portraits

    Creating Memories through Jackson Park Self Portraits

    I always get super thrilled when I picture my kids in the future. I imagine them showing these to their partners and going on and on about our adventures. This would surely make me the best mom ever lol. However, little do they know how much of this is actually for me. It is healing. In addition, connecting to nature is my jam. I want to point out all of the beauty to them, and also the grandness of them within this beauty. Check out the Jackson Park website to see when the best time to go visit. I recommend at the end of spring, beautiful blooms emerge.

    mom and daughter embrace near a lake in jackson park in chicago il

    It is spring time and I’m sure I’ll never stop being in awe of how things just come back year after year. No matter what happens, trees and flowers bloom. You blink and there are little sprouts everywhere. They are not announcing their arrival; they are just being. Consequently, I am working incessantly to stay present. Everyday is a new way to show up.

    A collage of three images featuring a woman and a young boy in various poses. The left image shows the woman hugging the boy by a body of water, the center image depicts them sitting together in a grassy area with the boy smiling, and the right image captures them closely engaged in conversation.
    kids near lake Jackson Park self portraits
    mom and son Jackson Park self portraits
    kids playing near ducks Jackson Park self portraits
    Two young people sitting by a riverbank, embracing each other while surrounded by trees and grass.
    A black and white photo of a woman walking near a pond, carrying a child in her arms, smiling.
    Three images of children playing by a pond, showcasing different moods and expressions. The first and last images are in black and white, while the middle image is in color, depicting the children sharing an activity.
    A woman and a girl sitting on grass, with the woman brushing the girl's hair. The scene is surrounded by wildflowers, depicted in both color and black and white.
    A mother and daughter embrace while lying on a grassy field adorned with purple flowers, both smiling and enjoying a moment together.

    Finding Growth in the Spring Season

    But I’m super fucking impatient. I desperately want something to tell me “Adri you are healed,” but I guess there will never come a sign. Just like the little sprouts, I just have to be. Day in and day out, I continue to attempt at this life until I’m no longer trying to heal all of my wounds. Maybe I’m being silly and that’s the point I’m missing. You are just never finished.

    I guess time will tell, as time always does. As I look back as a chicago family photographer motherhood was a huge catalyst toward healing, or at least the beginning of feeling. I know I need to stay present and stay in the beauty of spring. Let it teach me. Ultimately, I will take in all of the beauty and just await the new season of life.