CHICAGO WEDDING & FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

Category: personal

  • Fresno CA Newborn Photography | A Heartwarming Family Session

    Fresno CA Newborn Photography | A Heartwarming Family Session

    A Joyful Family Reunion: Fresno CA Newborn Photography

    I recently had the wonderful opportunity to capture some Fresno CA newborn photography during a family trip to California. My extended family and I traveled across the country to meet my brand new niece, and it was truly the loveliest time for all of us to be together.

    A Home Filled with Love and Good Food

    During our stay, we rented a spacious Airbnb so we could all be under one roof. My aunts and my mom made delicious breakfast every single day for my siblings and me. In fact, we didn’t eat out at all because the home-cooked meals were so incredible! Being together in one space was a lovely cool experience. We spent our afternoons playing ping-pong outside, soaking up the California sun, and laughing until our sides ached.

    A loving family moment with a baby lying on a bed, being gently held by parents. The mother and father are engaged and smiling at their child, creating a warm atmosphere.
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    A close-up of a baby lying on a bed, with a curious expression and short brown hair.
    Close-up of a baby's foot resting on a soft bedspread, with a blurred background.
    A mother smiling at her baby while lying on a bed, in a black and white photograph.
    A mother kissing her sleeping baby on a bed, captured in black and white.
    dad touching baby girls hair and looking at her Documentary Newborn Moments in Fresno
    close up of baby face Documentary Newborn Moments in Fresno
    A couple kissing while lying on a bed with a child in between them, creating a warm family moment.
    A close-up of a parent holding a baby's hand while cradling them, with soft natural light filtering through a window.
    A loving family portrait of a couple with their baby, with the father gently kissing the baby's forehead while the mother stands beside them, all looking towards a window in a bright, cozy room.
    Sweet close up of a baby face and dad from a Fresno CA newborn photography session.
    Parents in the mirror holding their baby girl in Fresno CA.
    A woman with long hair gently holds a young baby in her arms, both smiling in a cozy indoor setting. Fresno CA Newborn Photography
    Sweet close up of a baby face from a Fresno CA newborn photography session.
    Close-up of a baby with dark hair wearing a knitted light-colored sweater with buttons, looking directly at the camera with large, expressive Fresno CA Newborn Photographyeyes.
    A loving couple kisses each other while holding their baby, who is wearing a gray cardigan and denim jeans, sitting on a sofa. Fresno CA Newborn Photography
    A black and white image of a baby sitting in the arms of two parents who are kissing the baby on either side. Fresno CA Newborn Photography

    Documentary Fresno CA Newborn Photography Moments

    It has been nine years since we had a new baby in our family. Because I decided to have my own children in my early 20s, my kids grew up without cousins nearby. Now, we finally have a beautiful baby girl to cherish and spoil. During the trip, I took a moment to capture the three of them as a brand-new family. My brother and sister-in-law are natural parents, and it was moving to witness them in their new roles. We all joked that she is the happiest baby on the block! I love that I got to be her Chicago Newborn Photographer even in California.

    The Value of Lifestyle Photography

    Capturing these Fresno CA newborn photography moments reminded me why I love my job as a documentary photographer. These sessions allow families to relax and be themselves, even when a whole group of aunts and uncles is fighting over who gets to hold the baby next. Whether I am working at home in Chicago or traveling for a session in California, my goal is always to tell an authentic story through my lens. We are so excited to watch this little girl grow and to continue showering her with all the love she deserves.

  • Traveling Chicago Photographer | Seven Magic Mountains Photos

    Traveling Chicago Photographer | Seven Magic Mountains Photos

    Adventures of a Traveling Chicago Photographer

    It is so typically me to wear white sneakers in gravel and dirt. Consequently, I ruined them almost immediately! Even though I knew the terrain was rough, I made those choices anyway. Sigh. As a traveling Chicago photographer, I am finally catching up on my blogging. It has been a while since I added personal work to my little corner of the internet. I have been enjoying my summer in the sun, but fall is now here. Because it is my busiest season, I am working hard to stay afloat while finishing my 2022 outdoor sessions.

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    colorful rock art near Las Vegas Nv Seven Magic Mountains art captured by a Traveling Chicago Photographer.

    Traveling with the Family

    I recently completed another cross-country drive. However, this time was different because I had more drivers and more help. As a result, I had more ability to take in the beauty of the road. I spent a lot of time in the backseat working and hanging out with my oldest son.

    We watched Malcolm in the Middle together. Although he was reluctant at first, he eventually loved it. We have very similar humor, so I knew he would laugh! Unfortunately, we hit a deer just outside of Nebraska. It definitely scared my youngest, but thankfully we were all okay.

    girl in surprise Seven Magic Mountains art captured by a Traveling Chicago Photographer.
    posing near rock art Seven Magic Mountains art captured by a Traveling Chicago Photographer.
    close up of boy in black and white Documentary family photos in Nevada by a Traveling Chicago Photographer.

    Finding Inspiration in the Desert

    During the long drive, I had so much time to think. One of my favorite things to do is listen to music and think of the people I LOVE. All in all, it was a beautiful trip that created many memories for my kids.

    Furthermore, I believe public art is incredibly special. We visited Seven Magic Mountains, which is truly beautiful. However, the rocks have been changed over time by visitors. Do you think this contributes to the art, or does it take away from it?

    girl with sand in eyes Documentary family photos in Nevada by a Traveling Chicago Photographer.
    boy looking at his feet Documentary family photos in Nevada by a Traveling Chicago Photographer.
    Documentary family photos in Nevada by a Traveling Chicago Photographer.
    close up blurry photo of girl holding rock Traveling Chicago Photographer road trip session at Seven Magic Mountains.
    she's is a rock collector Traveling Chicago Photographer road trip session at Seven Magic Mountains.
    boy posing near rocks
    mom and kids in front of colorful rocks art
    seven magic mountiains

    girl in front of seven magic mountains
    seven magic mountains Las Vegas Nevada

    As a traveling Chicago photographer, I love finding these vibrant locations. Whether I am shooting a session in Oak Park or documenting a road trip in Nevada, I am always looking for the light.

  • 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.
  • Chicago Travel Blogger Photography | Michigan Camping Trip

    Chicago Travel Blogger Photography | Michigan Camping Trip

    Chicago Travel Blogger Photography: Michigan Moments

    I’ll forever be the mom who photographs my children sleeping. It’s quite literally the calm before the chaos, and as someone who lives for Chicago travel blogger photography, these quiet moments are the ones I cherish most. I love blending my professional eye with our real-life experiences.

    boy sleeping Chicago travel blogger photography
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    I’m slowly catching up on sharing personal images. Now that we’re back in school, my summer routine is disrupted, but looking back at these photos helps me reset. For me, travel blogging photography isn’t just about the destination; it’s about the intention we carry with us. So many of these images will be treasured for years to come. It was such a personal trip that we needed desperately. Michigan is a beautiful escape. I recommend traveling up to MI as often as you can as a Chicagoan. Visit Pure Michigan for more info

    girl near window sleeping Chicago travel blogger photography
    pokemon while camping Chicago travel blogger photography

    The Art of Intentional Travel

    Additionally, I love my work as a Chicago travel blogger photography enthusiast. It lets me see our family trips through a new lens. Many people focus only on grand Michigan landscapes. However, I prefer the quiet, monochrome details of our daily life. For example, I love the morning light inside the tent. I also love the joy of a child running through the trees.

    girl looking out the window Chicago travel blogger photography
    kids running in the woods Chicago travel blogger photography
    camping
    girl swingging
    TRAMPOLINE JUMPING

    Furthermore, moving away from the city’s fast pace helps us reconnect. However, the transition back to our Chicago routine is often a challenge. Consequently, I use these photographs as a visual bridge between our adventures and our everyday life. In addition to being beautiful memories, they serve as a reminder to live with the same intention we feel when we are out in nature. Ultimately, whether we are camping in a remote forest or exploring a new neighborhood at home, the goal remains the same: to document the honest, unposed beauty of our journey.

  • Road trips with kids: My 31-hour California Adventure

    Road trips with kids: My 31-hour California Adventure

    31 Hours: Our Impulsive Road Trip to California

    Last week, completely unplanned and stupidly so, I drove to California. If you don’t know, that is 31 damn hours from my home in Illinois. Road trips with kids can be daunting; however, this impulsive journey was exactly what my soul needed. Was it a bit wild? Probably. Consequently, I have no regrets about the decision.

    THE PACIFIC OCEAN AND MY DAUUGHTER MONTERREY
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    Planning Impulsive Road Trips With Kids

    On Wednesday my mom mentioned the idea, and by Thursday night, we were already out on the road. I drove through the night fueled by crappy gas station coffee and good music. While everyone else slept, it was just me and my thoughts. Lately, I haven’t allowed myself to just sit and be with myself. Additionally, 31 hours is a significant amount of thinking time. Usually, road trips with kids involve constant snacks and distractions, but the quiet of the night highway felt like a necessary reset.

    I wish I had taken more photographs during the drive. Unfortunately, I always regret not taking enough. I did manage to get in the frame with my kids, which is getting harder to do as they grow. My brother helped capture some of our time at the beach once we arrived. Furthermore, even though I wish I had more to show, I tried my best to be present.

    MY DAUGHTER BEING EXTRA Road trips with kids
    WINDY PORTRAIT Road trips with kids
    MONTERREY BEACH Road trips with kids
    ME AND MY KIDS NEAR THE SHORE Road trips with kids
    HUGGING MY BABY Road trips with kids
    RUNNING ON A SHORE Road trips with kids

    FFinding Peace in the Chaos

    We had so many deep conversations during the drive. As a result, we also had plenty of bickering fights. It was chaos and peace all at once. I truly can’t believe how much beauty is out there across this country. The route is incredible and it’s easy to get mesmerized by the open road.

    If you are planning your own road trips with kids, my advice is to just go. Don’t wait for the perfect plan. The time alone, the music, and the shifting landscapes reminded me that wherever you are in life, you will be okay. Therefore, if you can’t cope with life right now, just go take a damn cross-country trip like I did.

  • Chicago newborn photographers | Named Best of by Peerspace

    Chicago newborn photographers | Named Best of by Peerspace

    Peerspace: 10 Best Chicago Newborn Photographers

    I wanted to take a moment to share some exciting news and write a heartfelt thank you. To all the families who have invited me into their homes and most intimate spaces: thank you. Yesterday, I received a wonderful email from Peerspace. If you aren’t familiar, they are a fantastic resource for booking unique spaces for creative projects and events. Specifically, I am so honored to announce that they named me one of the 10 best Chicago newborn photographers.

    CHICAGO AND WEST SUBURBS NEWBORN TAB Named one of the 10 best Chicago newborn photographers by Peerspace.
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    from above Heartfelt connection during a session with Chicago newborn photographers.
    A sleeping newborn baby lying peacefully on a white crib mattress, with soft shadows cast by the crib slats.
    getting baby ready Heartfelt connection during a session with Chicago newborn photographers.
    little sister on crib Authentic lifestyle session from a premier Chicago newborn photographer.
    big brother Authentic lifestyle session from a premier Chicago newborn photographer.
    A cheerful young boy smiling in the foreground, while a woman holding a newborn is blurred in the background along with two other children, capturing a moment of family joy.
    Named one of the 10 best Chicago newborn photographers by Peerspace.
    A couple lovingly holds their newborn baby wrapped in a blanket while sitting together on a couch.
    Documentary Fresh 48 session by a top Chicago newborn photographer.
    dog looking at baby Authentic lifestyle session from a premier Chicago newborn photographer.
    Named one of the 10 best Chicago newborn photographers by Peerspace.
    Documentary Fresh 48 session by a top Chicago newborn photographer.
    A baby lying on a soft blanket in a dimly lit room, with a window in the background.
    A woman in a cozy sweater gently cradles a newborn baby on a bed, showcasing a tender moment between mother and child in black and white.
    A close-up shot of a person's hand gently holding a baby's hand, both resting on a textured beige blanket.
    A mother sitting on the floor, gently holding her newborn baby, who is dressed in a mauve outfit with a large white bow on her head. The setting features light wooden floors and soft natural light.
    Documentary Fresh 48 session by a top Chicago newborn photographer.
    A mother holding her newborn baby reflected in a round mirror, with a minimalistic white wall and decorative wall hanging in the background.
    A baby lying on a green crib mattress, wearing a light-colored outfit, with wooden crib slats in the background.
    A father sits in a chair, surrounded by three children, as they gently interact with a wrapped newborn resting in his arms, captured in a black and white photo.
    real motherhood Detailed documentary photography by a top Chicago newborn photographer.
    A woman in a red dress kneels beside a wicker bassinet, gazing out a window with a potted plant on the ledge. A baby is peacefully sleeping in the bassinet.
    nursing baby Raw and real motherhood portraits by a Chicago newborn photographer.
    Detailed documentary photography by a top Chicago newborn photographer.
    Cozy at-home session with one of the best Chicago newborn photographers.
    A newborn baby lies on a bed, surrounded by two adults who gently touch and interact with the baby, showcasing a moment of family connection.

    The Heart of Chicago Newborn Photographers

    This recognition was quite unexpected, and it was such a lovely message to wake up to. I am incredibly grateful for the path my work has taken over the years. Moreover, this journey has taught me so much about how to view life. Meeting brand-new humans at their most vulnerable is a constant reminder of how precious our time truly is. Consequently, I feel like I have the most rewarding job in the world.

    Creating art for families is my greatest passion. In addition, Peerspace specifically highlighted my “raw and real” portraits of motherhood. They mentioned that my documentary approach captures the authenticity of those early weeks. Similarly, being mentioned alongside such talented newborn photographers truly means the world to me. Actually, this city and the surrounding suburbs are absolutely full of incredible artists.

    Documenting Your Story

    Whether I am capturing a birth, a fresh 48 session, or a lifestyle newborn shoot at home, my goal is always the same. I want you to feel exactly how that moment felt every time you look at your album. Furthermore, I want to thank Peerspace for the kind feature. You can check out the full article on the 10 best newborn photographers in Chicago . Also, If you are looking for Chicago newborn photographers who value authenticity over stiff posing, I would love to connect with you. Therefore, let’s make some art together.

  • 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
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    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.

  • Galena IL couples photography | A Weekend Getaway Session

    Galena IL couples photography | A Weekend Getaway Session

    If you are looking for a beautiful getaway, a Galena IL couples photography session is the perfect excuse to explore. Oh, these kids! I call them kids because this is my sister and their partner. Karen is the complete opposite of me. They are eight years younger than me. Consequently, we joke that my parenting started with them. We have spent our whole lives at odds. I have always been about swallowing your feelings and avoiding vulnerability. However, Karen has led most of their life feeling and expressing a ton. I am so proud of the person they have become.

    Historic downtown Galena IL couples photography session
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    The Drive for Galena IL Couples Photography

    If you haven’t visited Galena, please find yourself there. My favorite part of the trip is the drive. I love listening to music while I hit the road because it feels incredibly peaceful. In addition, I am a full-album type of girl. I connect songs to specific feelings and drives. Furthermore, I love replaying albums to be transported back to specific moments in time.

    The town itself is so cute! It is full of history and quirkiness. Ultimately, we created this impromptu Galena IL couples photography session just for fun. They are in the early stages of their relationship, and I wish them nothing but the best.

    Historic downtown Galena IL couples photography session
    Historic downtown Galena IL couples photography session
    Historic downtown Galena IL couples photography session
    Documentary style Galena IL couples photography with Karen and Jordan
    Documentary style Galena IL couples photography with Karen and Jordan
    Documentary style Galena IL couples photography with Karen and Jordan
    Documentary style Galena IL couples photography with Karen and Jordan
    Black and white street scene with two people walking across a road lined with parked cars and historic buildings.
    Two people sit at a table in a cafe, smiling and holding coffee cups, with a cozy interior in the background.
    A couple gazing at each other in front of a building with a vintage neon sign that reads 'Log Cabin'.
    A couple standing together on a street in front of the 'Log Cabin' restaurant at dusk, illuminated by neon lights. The couple is holding hands, with the woman wearing a cozy coat and the man in a dark shirt. They are about to kiss, creating a romantic atmosphere.

    Capturing Connection in Historic Galena

    Additionally, a documentary session allows for the most honest interactions. While I usually work as a Chicago photographer, traveling for a Galena IL couples photography session was a refreshing change of pace. For example, the historic streets and quiet corners provided the perfect backdrop for their connection.

    Moreover, I believe that these small, impromptu moments are often the most meaningful. Consequently, these images represent a support system that celebrates both triumphs and setbacks. I am grateful to have witnessed this new chapter for Karen and Jordan. Furthermore, seeing them together in such a scenic location reminds me that nature and love are the best healers.

    My opinion as a Chicago Wedding photographer I feel like whether it is a structured wedding or a fun getaway shoot, I love documenting these milestones. If you are planning your own trip, be sure to visit the official Visit Galena website to find the best local spots for your own adventure.

  • River Forest Family Photos | Adri De La Cruz

    River Forest Family Photos | Adri De La Cruz

    I can’t believe we’re here, so close to December and just about to celebrate Thanksgiving. As I prepare for our upcoming River Forest family photos, I’ve been reflecting on how things are looking different in the future for us. Perhaps this is too heavy and personal for my photography page, or perhaps it’s just what my clients need from me.

    A family portrait featuring a smiling father with two children, one boy and one girl, in a cozy indoor setting with bookshelves and greenery in the background. River Forest family photos at home with chalk wall
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    To see me is to go a little deeper into who I am. I want you to see the person behind the lens. Specifically, I capture the beauty of family because it is my passion. My own family is also my passion. If I am to live my one wild and precious life the way I want, then I guess I’ll have to be judged.

    I am so grateful for my soon-to-be ex-husband who agreed to do this for me. In actuality, I know he knows it’s for them. While we may not have always modeled an incredible marriage, we will ensure they see unconditional love and friendship moving forward.

    Black and white image of three children posing together with smiles, one boy in a striped sweater, a girl in a white top, and another child partially hidden behind them, with a bookshelf in the background. River Forest family photos at home with chalk wall

    As I climbed out of the tub and shook my hair dry, I told myself: Maybe in a different life.

    Isn’t that interesting?

    As if I had more than one.

    -Untamed

    Reflecting on a Decade of Motherhood

    My twenties started with having a baby boy and launching my business. During that time, I absorbed everything I could. In the last decade, I have also launched photographer communities and workshops across the United States. I taught others to find their voice and even dabbled in having my own magazine.

    However, all of that would mean nothing without them. I was 21 when my son was born, shy of 22 by mere days. What an incredible journey it has been!

    Beginning the Next Chapter

    A young girl twirling in a shiny, sequined skirt with her hair flying around, set in a warm, inviting room with wooden floors and leafy decor. River Forest family photos at home with chalk wall

    I am 31 now. The best part of getting older is realizing that you actually know nothing. Such a humbling thing to acknowledge! Within this nothingness, I will begin my next decade. I hope I can sit here at 41 still admiring all of the greatness that has come.

    Therefore, I refuse to focus on the “what-could-have-been.” I hope I am forever a glass-half-full kind of girl, no matter what comes next.

    A boy and girl are hugging each other, both smiling. The boy is wearing a striped sweater in yellow and black, while the girl is wearing a white top and a sparkling skirt. They are seen in a cozy indoor setting with green plants in the background.

    The Story Behind These River Forest Family Photos

    About this session: I will forever love our chalk wall. While I probably can’t recreate this in my new rental, we have drawn and played a multitude of fun games on it. Specifically, I’ve been surprised by love notes from my children written there. I have also seen some incredible art skills displayed on this wall. I don’t want to take all the credit, but maybe that is a little of me rubbing off on them!

    In reality, we know all children are great artists. I am only happy mine constantly choose to share their work with me so often.

    Two children sitting on a wooden swing, with one boy wearing a striped sweater and a girl in a sparkling dress, both smiling and enjoying the moment, against a backdrop of a brick wall and a tree.

    Location Scouting for River Forest Family Photos

    Initially, I wanted to use the chalk wall as a backdrop for a few portraits then head out to find something different. I have driven past a specific green wall many times, always hopeful to have a session there at some point. Although some people struggle to see beauty in an “ugly” green wall, that is why there are people like me.

    As a Chicago Family Photographer & mom I understand that the point of a session is not the background, but the love and fun represented in front of it. From a chalk wall to a green wall, I love how these images taken under a pathway in  River Forest with my family came out. My sister even helped me take the group ones! I didn’t trust a tripod in the middle of a street with winds and cars flowing by.

    Ultimately, I hope we can make this happen every year until my kiddos finally say no. I hope you all have an amazing bunch of holidays!

    A young girl with long hair and a red sweater stands with her arms crossed, looking at a boy who is covering his face with his hands, wearing a striped sweater. They are in front of a green wall. Documentary River Forest family photos against green wall
    A young child sitting on a concrete ledge under an elevated structure, wearing a striped shirt and casual pants, with a relaxed expression, surrounded by industrial elements and overcast skies.
    Two children sitting together, smiling at the camera. The boy is wearing a striped sweater and the girl is wearing a sparkly skirt with a white top and a red cardigan. They are sitting on a striped blanket.
    A playful moment between two children sitting on a stone ledge under a railway bridge, surrounded by autumn leaves. The girl wears a white dress and a black cardigan, while the boy is in a striped sweater. They are laughing and enjoying each other's company.
    A boy and girl sitting together on the ground, sharing a joyful moment. The boy is wearing a striped sweater and is leaning in to kiss the girl's forehead as she laughs. The girl is dressed in a white top, a red cardigan, and a sparkly skirt. They are surrounded by an industrial backdrop with rusted metal and stone walls.
    A smiling man and a boy standing close together, sharing a joyful moment. The boy is wearing a striped sweater with yellow, and the man is dressed in a dark shirt. The background features industrial elements.
    A man and a young girl share an affectionate moment under a bridge, framed by industrial elements and surrounding trees.
    A man and a girl are interacting near a concrete wall with a metal support structure. The girl stands on a low platform, wearing a white dress, while the man is crouched down, looking up at her. The scene is set outdoors under a cloudy sky, surrounded by fallen leaves.
    A man carrying a sleeping child on his back, walking along a concrete wall under a cloudy sky, with another child standing nearby.
    A close-up portrait of a young girl resting her head on the shoulder of an adult, both appearing relaxed in a black and white setting.
    A family of three sitting together under a bridge, with a concrete wall and rusted metal supports in the background. The adult man is wearing a dark sweater, the woman is wearing a white top and a red skirt, and the child is dressed in a striped shirt. The atmosphere is casual and intimate.
    A family sitting together beneath a railway bridge, smiling and enjoying each other's company. The scene is captured in black and white, highlighting the connection and joy among family members.
    A young girl in a sparkly dress and a burgundy sweater joyfully twirls while holding hands with an adult in a black shirt, set against a concrete background.
    A family of four holding hands in front of a green wall, with fallen leaves on the ground. The mother in a white top and red skirt, a boy in a striped sweater, a girl in a white dress with a red cardigan, and a father in a black sweater. Documentary River Forest family photos against green wall.
    A family of four, including two children, joyfully walking together on a sidewalk near a weathered wall, surrounded by fallen leaves. Documentary River Forest family photos against green wall
    A family playing together outdoors, holding hands and walking along a sidewalk next to a weathered green wall, with fallen leaves on the ground. Documentary River Forest family photos against green wall
    A black and white image of a family walking hand in hand along a street with a textured wall in the background. On the right side, a boy wearing a striped shirt stands in front of a green wall while an adult man in a dark sweater stands behind him. Documentary River Forest family photos against green wall
    A family of four posing together in front of a green wall. The mother wears a white sweater, the father wears a black jacket, the son is in a striped shirt, and the daughter wears a white dress with a red cardigan. Documentary River Forest family photos against green wall

    I have always loved scouting locations near the River Forest Park District because even the most unconventional spots, like this green wall, can hold so much character.

  • Wood Dale Family Photographer | Quantifiable Beauty

    Wood Dale Family Photographer | Quantifiable Beauty

    I heard something recently. It said ” dreaming is a form of planning”. It resonated wildly with my soul. Everything I’ve ever wanted started as a dream. Me with my wild expectations. Most of the time when I would voice my dreams to others it would sound like I lost my damn mind. It always made me feel slightly crazy. But the thing that I have learned is that people lack imagination. Most are living and acting from a place of fear. Without intention. I have always felt this nagging voice for more. Not more in a form of quantifiable things, but more beauty, more aliveness more feelings. It’s probably why I felt pulled towards this medium. I want to record and preserve as many feelings as I can. I guess I’m a junky for that.

    I took these self portraits right before heading out and capturing my loves. But I felt the need to make a separate post because I want to encourage others to dream. I never grew up being asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, so perhaps thats how I’ve allowed myself to be whatever the (insert bad word) I want. I am a bunch of things. I’ve dreamt about most. Being a mother was a big one. I dreamt of building up little babies to be the best versions of themselves. I dreamt of a marriage, and even though it wasn’t what I expected I am also not too proud to say perhaps that dream can look different now. What ever you want your life to be in the future, you first have to dream it. You have to stop fitting into the mold of what people expect of you. I hope my children read my words someday and look over what they’ve achieved and know full well that they made that happen. Not for others but for themselves. I’ve had some wild dreams lately. Most of them are absolutely within reach currently they just take some work. Others are timely, others I will have to give up. But I’m excited for it all.

    “The surest way to make your dreams come true is to live them.”

    ― Roy T. Bennett

    I’ve been thinking of starting a personal blog to write more about those dreams, I’m still debating. We’ll see what happens and the direction I go in .

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