The Adri Photo Co.

Category: Extended Family Sessions

  • Glencoe Extended Family Photographer | The Adri Photo Co.

    Glencoe Extended Family Photographer | The Adri Photo Co.

    Some sessions stay with me long after the gallery is delivered, and this one is at the top of the list. As a Glencoe extended family photographer, I get to meet families in every season of life, but it’s rare to feel the kind of love that was in the air at this forest preserve. Three generations gathered for one reason: to celebrate their matriarch.

    A grandmother who stole the show

    Grandma was regal, poised, and absolutely beautiful. She carried herself with a quiet grace that anchored the whole session. You could see how much she means to everyone around her in the way they leaned in & held her hand. As someone who misses her grandmother dearly, these images were a joy to photograph. Photographing her surrounded by the family she built was an honor.

    A woman in a light-colored dress stands in a grassy field, holding a baby dressed in white. Trees are visible in the background.
    A group of children in light clothing gathers outdoors, with one boy holding a small bouquet of flowers while another looks on with a smile. Glencoe Extended Family Photographer
    A young girl with a light brown dress and a large white bow in her hair is smiling, standing in front of an older woman's arms wrapped around her in an outdoor grassy field. Glencoe Extended Family Photographer

    This family had six grandsons and two granddaughters, who are sisters, so the energy was wonderful. Everyone was patient, cooperative, and dressed impeccably. Their outfits worked beautifully together and looked gorgeous against the greens and golds of the forest preserve. I had the best time photographing every one of them, from the big group portraits to the small in-between moments, like a grandson whispering to his grandmother or the sisters sharing a private joke.

    As always my favorite images fromm their collection are the in-between images I captured. The documentary stuff. Full of the real. That’s what I love most about documentary and lifestyle photography. My philosophy is Honesty Over Poses, so I’m not looking for perfect, stiff smiles. I’m looking for the real connection that makes a family who they are.

    A family walks together in a lush green park. A woman in a pink dress holds hands with a young girl, who is wearing a light dress and a hairband. A man in a white shirt stands with a small child in his arms, smiling as they enjoy their time outdoors. Glencoe Extended Family Photographer

    Why a forest preserve works for Glencoe extended family photos

    If you’re looking for a Glencoe extended family photographer, a forest preserve is a great location. There’s plenty of space for large groups, soft natural light under the trees, and room for kids and grandkids to move around instead of standing in rows. Open trails and clearings also give us lots of variety without having to travel far.

    Two children in light green shirts running and smiling in a grassy field. Glencoe Extended Family Photographer
    A smiling elderly woman surrounded by six young boys, all dressed in light-colored clothing, standing in a grassy field with trees in the background. Glencoe Extended Family Photographer
    A smiling toddler sitting on the grass, wearing a white dress with floral embroidery and a pink hairband, surrounded by green foliage and wildflowers. Glencoe Extended Family Photographer

    Tips for extended family photos

    1. Coordinate, don’t match. Choose a color palette with two or three shades that work together rather than identical outfits. This family nailed it.
    2. Pick a time when everyone is rested. Avoid scheduling around naps, meals, or long drives. Patient, comfortable people photograph better.
    3. Choose a location with room to spread out. Large groups need space, and nature gives us that.
    4. Plan for the matriarch or patriarch. Make sure the guest of honor is comfortable, with a place to sit if needed and a pace that works for them. Their comfort sets the tone for everyone.
    5. Start big, then break into smaller groups. We begin with the whole family, then move to each branch, siblings, cousins, and grandparents with grandchildren. These smaller groupings are often the favorites.
    6. Give everyone a role. Cousins can walk together, siblings can tease each other, and grandkids can sit around Grandma. A little direction keeps everyone relaxed and natural.
    7. Arrive a few minutes early. With a big group, a short buffer makes the whole session smoother and less stressful.
    8. Trust your photographer to handle the details. You enjoy your family, and I’ll handle the light, posing, and flow.

    Planning your own session

    If you’re dreaming of gathering your whole family to celebrate a milestone, a birthday, or simply the chance to be together, I’d love to photograph it. I’m a documentary and lifestyle photographer serving families in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, including Glencoe and the rest of the North Shore. Visit adridelacruz.com to start planning your Glencoe extended family session.

    Children playing in a sunny grassy field, interacting with branches and trees, with adults in the background observing. Glencoe Extended Family Photographer
    A child holding a delicate purple flower in their hands, dressed in a pink, button-up dress, surrounded by lush green grass.
    A black and white photo of a happy family embracing in a grassy field. The parents smile as their two young sons hug them affectionately. Glencoe Extended Family Photographer
    An older woman gently kissing the head of a young child, showcasing tenderness and affection. Glencoe Extended Family Photographer
    A grandmother points towards a tree while three boys interact in a grassy field. One boy holds a stick, and another looks on, as a fourth boy is seen in the background.
    A family group standing in a lush green park, posing for a photograph. They are dressed in light, colorful summer attire against a backdrop of trees and open grass.
    A black and white photo of a family standing outdoors in a grassy area. A woman holds a baby, while another woman smiles beside her. Two girls hold hands, one is wearing a dress and a headband. In the background, there is a pavilion and trees.
    A mother embracing her three children in a grassy field, all wearing matching blue outfits. The children are smiling, with one resting against the mother's shoulder.
    A family walking together in a green park, with children and adults dressed in casual clothing, enjoying a sunny day among trees.
    A smiling family group outdoors, featuring a grandmother and her grandchildren. The adults and children are wearing matching blue polo shirts, with the grandmother in a light-colored dress. The setting is a grassy area with trees in the background.
    A large family playing outdoors in a green field, with children running towards the camera and adults standing in the background, all smiling and enjoying a sunny day.
    A man interacting playfully with a boy in a park, surrounded by greenery and other children, all wearing light-colored clothing.
    A woman in a light-colored dress standing on green grass under large trees in a sunny outdoor setting.
    An elderly woman gently holds an infant in a grassy field, both smiling softly amidst a lush green background.
    An elderly woman stands smiling in a sunlit grassy area, wearing a light-colored dress, with a large tree behind her.
    A family gathering in a green field with children running towards adults, who are smiling and enjoying the moment.
  • Oak Brook Family Photos| Guzman Extended Session

    Oak Brook Family Photos| Guzman Extended Session

    Choosing the right Oak Brook family photos provider is essential when you are coordinating a large group. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing the Guzman family during a beautiful autumn afternoon. First, I noticed how the fall colors perfectly matched their energy. Because I am an experienced Oak Brook family photographer, I knew exactly how to use the outdoor lighting to capture their connection.

    Next, I have to be honest about my initial thoughts. Walking into a session filled with Gen Z kids can be intimidating! However, this group was incredibly kind and funny. They made my job as an Oak Brook family photographer feel effortless. In fact, while they might not realize the value of these portraits today, they certainly will in the future. Consequently, these images will become a family treasure.

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    family walking Oak Brook family photos extended family session
    sisters hugging during the extended family photography Oak Brook family photos extended family session
    uncle and aunt at the extended family session Oak Brook family photos extended family session

    Additionally, capturing an extended family is a real workout. You have to move quickly and keep a mental checklist of every sub-grouping. Fortunately, I love the fast pace. Therefore, I was able to capture candid moments between cousins and grandparents without losing anyone’s attention.

    mother and daughters during extended family session
    A smiling young woman with long dark hair, standing outdoors with sunlight shining through greenery in the background.
    mom with son and daughter
    A black and white photo of four people standing closely together in a wooded area, smiling and interacting with each other.
    Oak Brook family photographer extended family session
    family sitting on blanket during extended family session Oak Brook family photographer extended family session
    grandpa and granddaughter during an extended family session Oak Brook family photographer extended family session
    daughter during extended family session Oak Brook family photographer extended family session
    Three young adults standing together outdoors surrounded by trees and fallen leaves, enjoying a sunny day.
    brothers hugging during extended family session Oak Brook family photographer extended family session
    hugs during between mom dad and kids during extended family session Oak Brook family photographer extended family session
    A group of five boys standing together on a grassy area with trees in the background, smiling at the camera on a sunny day.
    A group of eight people standing together outdoors, smiling at the camera in a black and white photograph. The background features trees and grass.
    A large family gathered outdoors, standing in a semi-circle, smiling and interacting with one another, surrounded by trees in a black and white photo.
    A large group of people standing together on a grassy area with trees in the background, enjoying a sunny day.
    A group of diverse individuals walking together in a sunny, wooded area, dressed in casual winter clothing.
    A group of six women and a young girl sitting on a blanket in a grassy area surrounded by trees on a sunny day.
    A group of people, including children and adults, walking together in a grassy field. In the foreground, an older couple stands with their backs to the camera, while the group moves toward them.
    A joyful family reunion in a park, with members running towards each other and embracing, surrounded by trees and open grassland.
    A large group of people joyfully hugging and laughing together outdoors, captured in black and white.
    A smiling man in glasses lifts a joyful girl in a yellow dress, who is wearing a red sweater, in a park setting with trees in the background.
    Oak Brook family photographer extended family session

    Why You Need an Oak Brook Family Photos for Large Groups

    Furthermore, there are many benefits to hiring a professional family photographer for your extended family.

    1. Direction: I provide clear instructions so nobody feels awkward. Specifically, I help with posing so everyone looks their best.
    2. Efficiency: I know how to get the “must-have” shots before the kids get restless. Therefore, the session stays fun and lighthearted.
    3. Legacy: These portraits represent your family’s history. Because life moves so fast, having these professional records is a gift to the next generation.

    In short, if you are looking for a family photographer who can turn a large gathering into a gallery of art, I am here to help. Specifically, I focus on the authentic bonds that make your family unique. Therefore, let’s plan your session today! I Love grandparents, they are such an important part of our families, being a Chicago Family photographer means I get to capture that connection.

  • Extended Family Photographer Chicago | Walter Family Downtown

    Extended Family Photographer Chicago | Walter Family Downtown

    Extended Family Photographer Chicago

    As an extended family photographer in Chicago, the number one thing I always hear from other photographers when I tell them I shot a large group is … dread. It’s no secret that many professionals are not fans of big family sessions. If you’re not careful, the whole session can feel chaotic and unorganized. Big groups can be overwhelming for some, but for me, this one was a pure joy.

    A group of ten people, including adults and a baby, standing together outdoors in a park with skyscrapers in the background. They are engaged in playful interactions, with some smiling and laughing. Extended Family Photographer Chicago

    This whole family was so lovely and full of bright personalities. With only one tiny human and the rest adults, it was an incredibly easy crowd to work with. Being an extended family photographer in Chicago means knowing how to navigate the energy of a large group while ensuring everyone feels seen and comfortable in front of the lens. Being a chicago family photographer means meeting the coolest people because we have one of the coolest cities.

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    Two women smiling together in a sunlit outdoor setting with trees in the background. Extended Family Photographer Chicago
    A black and white photo of four men standing together outdoors, smiling and interacting playfully, surrounded by trees. The image is split into two parts: one side shows the men engaged in conversation, while the other features three of them posing arm in arm. Extended Family Photographer Chicago

    Celebrating Birthdays in Downtown Chicago

    This Indiana family was in town specifically to celebrate Mom’s birthday. I was able to meet them downtown by the fountain to capture all of their beauty. Despite the full sun and the hustle and bustle of being in the middle of downtown, we got to work quickly. I think these images turned out amazing! I was able to capture all of their individual personalities, and seeing how unique each couple was made the session even more special.

    A happy family photo featuring a couple kissing and holding their baby outdoors, surrounded by trees and greenery, capturing a joyful moment.Extended Family Photographer Chicago
    A man holds a baby in a park, surrounded by blossoming trees. Extended Family Photographer Chicago
    A family portrait featuring a man and woman standing together in a grassy area with trees. The man holds a baby girl dressed in an orange outfit, while the woman smiles happily beside them.
    A happy family portrait featuring a father and mother holding their baby girl outdoors under a tree. The father is gently kissing the baby's cheek while the mother smiles joyfully. The image is in black and white.
    A group of ten people standing on a path in a park, smiling and posing for the photo, with tall buildings in the background and greenery surrounding them.
    A couple poses together, smiling and standing close, with a city skyline in the background.
    A couple sharing a kiss in a park with city buildings in the background, surrounded by greenery.
    A couple enjoying a sunny day in a park, smiling and playfully interacting with each other. The woman wears a light blouse and green pants, while the man is dressed in a casual shirt and jeans, with city skyscrapers visible in the background.
    A group of five women and a baby posing together outdoors in a park, smiling and enjoying the sunny day.
    A group of four people posing playfully on a grassy field with a city skyline in the background.
    A group of ten people posing together outdoors in a park, with tall buildings in the background. One person is holding a baby, and everyone is smiling. The image is in black and white.

    Tips for Your Extended Family Session

    If you are looking for an extended family photographer in Chicago, here are a few things to consider for your own large group session:

    • Coordinate, Don’t Match: Notice how this family used a cohesive color palette without wearing identical outfits. This adds depth to the photos.
    • Choose a Meaningful Location: Downtown Chicago offers iconic backdrops like the Buckingham Fountain, which works perfectly for large groups.
    • Embrace the Interaction: The best shots often happen between the poses. I love capturing the laughter and side conversations that happen when a family is all together.

    Photography is about more than just a “everyone look here” moment; it’s about the legacy of a family. Whether you are visiting from out of state like the Walters or you are a local, hiring an extended family photographer in Chicago ensures these milestones are preserved forever.

  • Wicker Park Family Photographer | the Hawleys

    Wicker Park Family Photographer | the Hawleys

    The Hawley Family: Memories with a Wicker Park Family Photographer

    As a Wicker Park family photographer, I know that extended family sessions can sometimes feel intimidating. Big groups of people generally make me nervous. However, I am happy to report that the nerves subsided quickly with the Hawley family. They were such lovely people to work with in the city. Furthermore, they even brought a cute pup along! Truly, what else do we really need for a perfect photo shoot?

    wife and husband gigging and smiling at the wicker park fountain
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    Why You Need a Wicker Park Family Photographer for Large Groups

    From our session together, I saw just how important family is to all of them. Initially, I noticed their strong bond and easy laughter. I know from experience how hard it is to have family members living all over the country. Therefore, booking a session with a family photographer while life is busy is a wonderful gift. In addition, if you’re looking for a great spot to grab a coffee before your session, I always recommend checking out the local shops on Division Street. Specifically, this helps you get the full neighborhood experience.

    Mom and dad hugging Wicker Park family photographer session with the Hawley family.
    mom and her baby Wicker Park family photographer session with the Hawley family.

    A Chicago Wicker Park Family Photographer Perspective on Generations

    Life comes at us fast and changes quickly. One day we are here, and the next we are not. Consequently, these images are here to stay for generations. Speaking of generations, seeing grandparents and grandkids together was a joy. Because these connections are so special, I look forward to that in my own life. Similarly, working as a family photographer allows me to see these beautiful bonds up close.

    family session at wicker park park Wicker Park family photographer session with the Hawley family.
    dad and his boy Wicker Park family photographer session with the Hawley family.
    extended family session in wicker park cousin and aunt Wicker Park family photographer session with the Hawley family.
    A family photo collage featuring a woman and a girl embracing in a garden, with a man standing nearby. The scene captures the warmth and connection between them, all dressed in floral patterns against a lush green background.
    A black and white portrait of a happy family consisting of a father, mother, and their daughter, standing together outdoors among greenery.
    An elderly couple standing together outdoors, smiling at the camera, in front of lush greenery.
    A young boy smiling happily while standing in a park, surrounded by greenery and trees.
    A young boy in a light-colored shirt and shorts stands outdoors, smiling and playing with greenery.
    A woman smiling while sitting on the grass, holding a young boy in her lap. They are surrounded by green foliage, with a small white dog nearby.
    A smiling family of four posing together outdoors in soft lighting, surrounded by green trees and plants. The group includes two men, a woman, and an older man, all dressed casually. The image is presented in both color and black and white.
    A family standing together in a park, surrounded by trees and greenery, with a small dog in front. The group includes adults and children, smiling at the camera.
    A cheerful family photo featuring a grandmother holding her grandson, a girl smiling beside them, and a grandfather standing behind, all outdoors near a decorative planter.
    A collage of family moments on the steps of a charming brick building with green doors. The top image features a girl in a dress standing among greenery. The second image shows a father and daughter smiling while sitting together. The third image captures a family, including a mother, son, and a dog, sitting affectionately on the steps.
    A family group portrait in a park, featuring several adults and children wearing masks, surrounded by greenery and flowers.

    Why Choose This Location?

    Wicker Park is a vibrant backdrop for any family. In addition, the park provides plenty of space for large groups to move and play. As a result of the diverse scenery, we captured many different looks for the Hawley family. Finally, if you are searching for a family photographer, remember that the best moments are the unposed ones. Stay tuned for more beautiful Chicago family stories coming soon!

    Wicker Park is such a vibrant neighborhood for photography. If you are traveling in for a session, I recommend checking out the Wicker Park Bucktown Chamber guide to find the best parking and hidden gems nearby. I LOVE foxtrot market for a on the go cup of coffee and finishing off with Peace Pizza for lunch before heading home. As a Chicago Family photographer, with my own family, we are eating pizza.

  • 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