Candid Family Portraits Archives - CHICAGO WEDDING & FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

Chicago Family Photography | Why I Don’t Ask Kids to Say Cheese

Why I Don’t Ask Your Kids to Say Cheese: My Approach to Chicago Family Photography

I’ll be honest: I am not interested in “perfect” photos. As a specialist in Chicago family photography, I have learned that the best moments happen when the “cheese” stays in the fridge. We have all seen those photos where a toddler’s smile looks more like a grimace because they were told to sit still. In fact, I think those forced moments miss the point of what your family actually feels like.

emotional connection during a Chicago family photography session

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The “Real Life” Approach

I know the “big sit-down” photo is usually for the grandparents, and we will get that one. However, my heart is in the messy middle of your session. I want to capture the way your daughter twirls until she falls over or the way your son hides behind your leg. Consequently, I don’t give a lot of stiff directions. I would much rather watch you interact and find the quiet, real connection that makes your family unique.

A young boy playfully leans over a baby girl sitting on a couch, both smiling and enjoying each other's company.

chicago family photography mom laughing with her daughters as they run towards her

Turning Play into Chicago Family Photography

To get those real smiles, we have to play. For example, I might ask you to have a tickle fight or see who can jump the highest. Furthermore, these games take the pressure off. When your kids see you laughing and being silly, they stop seeing me as “the lady with the camera.” As a result, they start seeing the session as a fun afternoon at the park. That is exactly when the most authentic Chicago family photography happens.

Three children playing outdoors in autumn. One girl in a pink coat smiles while sitting on a rock, while two boys stand nearby, one in a green sweater and a jacket, and the other in a white sweater. The background features autumn foliage.

Authentic Chicago family photography of kids playing and laughing

Embracing the Chaos of Motherhood

I have been in your shoes, and I know the stress of wondering if your kids will “behave.” Therefore, I want to give you permission to let go. If your toddler has a meltdown or your newborn won’t stop crying, it’s okay. Additionally, those raw, teary snuggles are often the photos you will cherish the most. Because of this, I am always looking for the “in-between” moments when you think I’m not looking.

kids doing a piggy back ride during their Evanston family session at sunset

Tender portrait of mom and baby during lifestyle newborn photography session in Geneva Illinois home

What to Expect from Your Session

If you want a session that feels like a walk in the park rather than a chore, you are in the right place. First, we pick a spot that fits your vibe. Second, we just let life happen. Ultimately, my goal is for you to look at your photos and recognize the people in them not just a polished version of yourselves. In the world of Chicago family photography, real life is always more beautiful than a pose.

January 16, 2026

Elmhurst IL Family Photographer | Rooftop Family Session

Finding the right Elmhurst IL family photographer is about more than just a pretty backdrop. Specifically, it is about capturing the truth of your story. Recently, I took my own family to a rooftop in the city. First, I wanted to record the love we share right now. Because photographs are my lifeline, these images mean everything to me.

Next, I thought about the power of connection. I read that hating an ex is like hating a part of your child. Consequently, I am grateful that we choose peace. He begrudgingly joins my shenanigans because he knows how much I value these moments. In fact, love is only meant to grow. Truly, anything that calls itself love but stays closed off is not the real thing.

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A person with long, wavy hair wearing a checkered sweater, turning away and appearing to dance on a rooftop or open space.

Two children smiling at each other on a rooftop, one wearing a patterned sweater and the other a black and white checkered jacket.

Additionally, I dream of capturing my future grandkids. I want a record of our love story to live on forever. Furthermore, the road for me is always found in photographs. Therefore, I hope our love always expresses itself through these frames. Because of this rooftop session, we have a new chapter recorded.

A young girl with long, wavy hair is looking down, wearing a patterned sweater and a dark headband.

A person wearing a black and white checkered jacket walks alone on a spacious, empty parking lot under a cloudy sky.

A family of four on a rooftop parking lot, with two children smiling and playing, while an adult walks away in the background. The scene is set against a cloudy sky.

A young girl with closed eyes, smiling softly as her hair is gently tousled by the wind, set against a blurred background.

A woman smiling and holding a young girl, both sharing a joyful moment outdoors on a rooftop with a cloudy sky in the background.

A father and daughter sharing a joyful moment outdoors, with the daughter playfully sitting on the father's shoulders and laughing, captured in a black and white photograph.

A boy and a girl pose together on a rooftop parking lot, smiling at the camera. The girl is wearing a white off-shoulder top and black leggings, while the boy is in a patterned jacket and black shirt. The urban skyline is blurred in the background, creating a casual and joyful atmosphere. Elmhurst IL Family Photographer

A mother and her two children pose together on a rooftop parking lot, smiling and enjoying each other's company. Elmhurst IL Family Photographer

A close-up view of a young girl with wavy hair, wearing a patterned sweater and a black headband, with her head slightly bowed and looking down. Elmhurst IL Family Photographer

A smiling boy wearing a plaid jacket and black shirt, standing outdoors and holding his hand to his forehead in a playful gesture. Elmhurst IL Family Photographer

A person with long hair dancing joyfully in a checkered sweater on a rooftop with a blurred urban background. Elmhurst IL Family Photographer

A man standing with a boy and a girl on a rooftop, smiling. The boy is wearing a black and white checkered jacket, while the girl is in a light sweater. The background features a gray sky and a distant cityscape.

A cheerful couple on a rooftop, with the man playfully lifting the woman who is smiling and leaning backward.

Why Plan an Elmhurst IL Family Photographer Session?

Furthermore, there are many reasons to book an Elmhurst IL family photographer. First, the city offers unique urban spots like this rooftop. Second, a professional session allows you to be in the photos with your children. In addition, I focus on candid moments rather than stiff poses. Specifically, I look for the laughter and the quiet glances. My kids are close to swearing off photographs together, so I will keep taking them until they let me.

In short, if you need an Elmhurst IL family photographer who understands the weight of a memory, I would love to connect. Specifically, I want to help you tell your family’s greatest love story. Therefore, let’s find a rooftop and create some magic! Being a Chicago family photographer and getting to create magic with my own family is everything to me.

February 16, 2023

At Home Family Photographer Evanston | Chicago Lifestyle

At Home with the Chelebek Family

Choosing an at home family photographer in Evanston means letting go of perfection. Often, we feel pressure to present a curated version of our lives. However, there is so much beauty in the unscripted moments. This early morning session reminded me that the best memories aren’t planned. Instead, they simply happen in the quiet corners of our own homes.

Life is beautiful chaos. Consequently, I choose to embrace it in my work. These sessions are for families who want to remember the “right now.” For instance, we didn’t worry about tidy rooms during this shoot. We spent the morning in a treehouse. We sang until everyone was breathless with laughter. As a result, the photos feel honest.

mom holding baby At home family photographer Evanston sunny morning session

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kiddo laughing At home family photographer Evanston documentary style

kids twirling at home in Evanston IL Evanston at home family photographer candid kids playing

Why Hire an At Home Family Photographer in Evanston?

There is a specific kind of magic in the mundane. When I look at these images of the Chelebek family, I don’t just see a photo session; I see the way a house becomes a home. It’s in the messy piles of books and the way the light filters through the windows in the early morning. As an at home family photographer in Evanston, my goal is to make sure you don’t forget these small, quiet details that make up your ‘right now.’

We often think we need to go somewhere grand for photos, but your sanctuary is usually the best backdrop. It’s where your kids feel safe to be wild, and where you feel safe to be yourself. These are the moments that will matter most in ten years—the way they climbed on the furniture or the specific way you held them on the rug.

Evanston IL tree house At home family photographer Evanston lifestyle portraits

mom and daughter in a treehouse At home family photographer Evanston lifestyle portraits

A smiling child standing on a wooden loft in a cozy cabin, holding a circular pillow, with an octagonal window above.

Two children play on a wooden balcony, looking down with smiles in a cabin setting.

A Dalmatian dog walking on grass, viewed from above, with a person partially visible in the background.

A woman embraces a young girl in a garden, both smiling happily, while a spotted dog walks in the background.

A family enjoying time together in a backyard, with a Dalmatian dog and two children playing on the grass.

A man joyfully carries a young girl on his back in a sunlit garden, surrounded by greenery.

family in the living room at their home session in Evanston IL

kids going up the stair in their at home session in Chicago IL

Two young children playing on a bed, one jumping and the other sitting, surrounded by stuffed animals in a bright, simple room.

A mother sits on a bed with her two daughters, one standing on the edge of the bed while the other is lying down, all in a softly lit room.

A family interacts playfully in a bright bedroom, with a man holding a child, a woman standing nearby, and a Dalmatian dog on the bed.

A playful scene in a cozy bedroom with a young girl jumping on a bed, a dog nearby, and a man holding a child upside down while a woman looks on, all smiling.

Furthermore, I’ve realized that kids are most themselves in their own element. In addition to their own toys, they have the freedom to just be. Specifically, I loved capturing the raw connection between these two sisters. Ultimately, the goal isn’t a perfect pose. It is about documenting the messy reality of your family’s love. Therefore, I am grateful to capture these stories. Don’t forget to check out my Chicago Family Photographer portfolio.

See the full Evanston family photographer portfolio and experience guide.

January 4, 2023

River North family photographer | Charlie’s 4th birthday

The age of four feels like a sweet spot. They aren’t toddlers anymore, but they still have wide-eyed curiosity. I love capturing that. I met Charlie and her mom in the city, and I remembered exactly why I love my job. As a River North family photographer, I freeze these tiny, fleeting milestones. I capture a four-year-old holding her mom’s hand. I love the way they laugh on the sidewalk.

A joyful young girl wearing a crown and a pink jacket smiles at the camera while raising her arms on a walkway by a river. River North family photographer

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Why Hire a River North Family Photographer?

Do you worry about the city being too busy? I understand. However, River North offers amazing energy that you cannot find anywhere else. It features classic brick backdrops, stunning river views, and industrial charm. I know the best, quietest spots to take your family. They are safe and visually beautiful. By hiring a family photographer, you ensure your gallery gets that timeless, editorial feel.

Tips for a Successful Session

Planning a session? Keep these tips in mind.

Pick a day when they are rested. Four-year-olds have strong opinions!
Bring a prop or activity. A favorite book works well. Chasing bubbles works too. This makes the photos feel like “real life.” It beats a stiff pose every time.
Check local permit rules. Always check the for the latest guidelines. This ensures we follow all local rules.

A mother lifts her young daughter in the air while standing by a river with a bridge in the background. The photo is in black and white, capturing a joyful moment between them. River North family photographer

Capturing Growth Over Time

Kids grow up fast. One day they are four, and the next, they are heading to kindergarten. I believe in documenting these chapters properly. Whether we explore the urban streets or find a quiet corner, the goal is always to keep the experience stress-free.

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As a Chicago Family Photographer and her auntie Charlie’s fourth birthday brought me so much joy. The city skyline looked perfect behind them. These photos are now timeless keepsakes for their family. Are you looking for a River North family photographer to document your own story? Click here to view my or to start planning today!

A black and white image of a person in a hat bending down to kiss a young girl in a white dress, standing by a railing near a river with buildings in the background. River North family photographer

A young girl in a light dress joyfully running along a city waterfront pathway, with modern buildings and a bridge in the background. River North family photographer

A woman in a black dress and a young girl in a white dress are holding hands while walking alongside a stone wall. The scene is set outdoors with some greenery in the foreground. River North family photographer

A mother and daughter sharing a joyful moment, with the mother leaning in to kiss the daughter who is smiling, both dressed in elegant outfits, set against a stone backdrop.

A woman wearing a hat sits against a building while holding a child in her lap, surrounded by green leaves. River North family photographer

A woman in a black dress interacts joyfully with a young girl in a white dress, who is jumping up with excitement beside a stone wall.

A young girl in a white dress stands looking down, while an adult woman gestures towards her, set against a stone wall.

A woman wearing a gray hat is sitting close to a young girl with curly hair and a black bow, both smiling at each other.

A mother and daughter interact by a river, with the mother pointing at the water while the daughter watches curiously.

A smiling woman wearing a gray hat poses with a young girl by a riverbank, surrounded by greenery and urban buildings in the background.

A joyful moment between a mother and her daughter, as they smile and laugh together outdoors, surrounded by greenery.

A woman sitting by a river, hugging a young girl. The river is surrounded by greenery and there are kayakers in the background.

A woman and a child kneel by a river, observing the water intently. The woman is wearing a wide-brimmed hat, and the child is reaching out towards the water, surrounded by greenery and the urban backdrop.

A young girl in a white dress descends a set of concrete stairs, smiling and holding onto the railing.

A woman in a long black dress playfully lifts a young girl wearing a white dress on a bridge, surrounded by city buildings and sunlight.

A woman and a girl overlooking a river in an urban setting, surrounded by tall buildings during sunset.

October 7, 2020

O’Hare Documentary Family Photographer | Storytelling

This O’Hare documentary family photographer session is deeply personal. After 15 years apart, watching my mom reunite with her mother was a surreal, soulful experience that only candid, documentary photography could truly capture at our local airport.

On the left my Aunt Paty holding her face as I take a photograph, and on the right my cousins and aunts holding my daughter O'Hare documentary family photographer

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O’Hare Documentary Family Photographer: The Art of the Reunion

It is hard to find the right words for a moment like this. I have seen my mom cry many times after phone calls. Each time, she wished she could see her mother again. It has been over 15 years. Consequently, the moment she told me she would see her mom felt surreal. You eventually accept the reality that you may never see that person again when you choose to immigrate to the USA. This is my family’s story, but it is also a story shared by many.

The Role of an O’Hare Documentary Family Photographer

They brought balloons for their mother a little of whimsy O'Hare documentary family photographer

This topic is rarely black and white. As an O’Hare documentary family photographer, I see these raw emotions often.On this day, we arrived three hours early. We waited anxiously for a familiar face in the crowd. We even brought balloons for the occasion. However, my two-year-old released them onto the airport ceiling just before the meet and greet. We sat there and watched strangers reunite. We saw passengers return home and kids run through the halls.

A Soulful Homecoming

Finally, we saw her rushing through the terminal. She looked exactly as I remembered. Disbelief hit us all for a quick moment. Time showed on her skin, yet her eyes were more beautiful than I remembered. They were just as kind as ever. Deep hugs followed, and the tears flowed freely. Ultimately, my Aunt broke the gravity of the moment. She emerged from the bathroom upset that she missed the first sighting, making us all laugh.

We hope she can visit us much more often now. We also hope to travel to see her soon. I feel so happy to have captured these special images. If you need an O’Hare documentary family photographer to tell your story, I would love to help. I adore that my job as a Chicago Family photographer has allowed me to forever capture my families stories.