The Adri Photo Co.

Tag: chicago family photographer

  • Hanover Park Family Portraits | A Field and Summer Session

    Hanover Park Family Portraits | A Field and Summer Session

    Hanover Park Family Portraits: The Esmael Family Story

    I have known the Esmaels for quite some time. Actually, I followed them on social media and loved watching their adventures before we finally worked together. Seeing them become the beautiful family they are today has been a joy. For this reason, I felt ecstatic when Courtney reached out for Hanover Park family portraits.

    Two young girls standing in a sunlit grassy field, wearing matching yellow outfits. One girl gazes up at the other, who looks down affectionately. Hanover Park family portraits
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    Playing in the Tall Summer Fields In Hanover Park

    We had a blast playing and shooting in the tall summer fields of the West Suburbs. Specifically, the children were so sweet and acted like little “bug encyclopedias” as they explored the grass. Because I prioritize “honesty over poses,” I let them lead the way through the field. We didn’t focus on looking at the camera or staying still. Instead, we captured their natural curiosity and the magic of a summer afternoon. Consequently, the session felt like a true playdate rather than a formal shoot.

    A joyful family portrait featuring a couple with their three young daughters, seated in a lush, green outdoor setting. The scene captures the warmth of the family connection, with smiles and playful interactions among them. Hanover Park family portraits

    Honoring the Bond of Sisterhood

    I most of all fell in love with the bond of sisterhood that is already so strong between these two. Furthermore, this whole family is just so effortlessly beautiful. Choosing Hanover Park family portraits in an open natural space. This allowed their genuine connection to shine without the distraction of a busy studio. We documented quiet whispers, shared laughs, and the way they leaned on one another. As a Chicago Family Photographer utimately, it was an honor to capture a little slice of their unbreakable union.

    A happy family with a father and mother sitting together on the grass, surrounded by wildflowers. The parents are embracing their two young daughters, who are dressed in yellow skirts and white tops. The scene is warm and sunny. Hanover Park family portraits

    Why Documentary Storytelling Matters

    In a world of “perfect” Instagram feeds, I believe there is so much power in the raw and real. In addition, documenting these fleeting seasons—like when your kids are obsessed with bugs—is what creates a true visual legacy. Also, these are the photos that will spark the best memories twenty years from now. By choosing Hanover Park family portraits, the Esmaels now have a record of this exact moment in their history.

    Two young girls holding hands and walking through a sunlit field, wearing colorful dresses. Hanover Park family portraits
    Two young girls playing in a field, one holding a bunch of wildflowers while the other looks on.
    A family sitting together on grass, with parents kissing and two young daughters nearby, one looking at the camera and the other smiling. The scene is set in a natural, outdoor environment with vibrant greenery and soft lighting. Hanover Park family portraits
    A father and daughter share a tender moment outdoors, with the father embracing the girl from behind while she looks slightly away, both enjoying the natural surroundings. Hanover Park family portraits
    A father and two young daughters exploring a field filled with wildflowers during sunset. Hanover Park family portraits
    A man holding a young girl in a grassy field filled with yellow flowers, with sunlight filtering through the trees. Hanover Park family portraits
    A mother and her two children interacting in a lush green field, captured in a blend of black and white and color photography. Hanover Park family portraits
    A family of five enjoying a moment outdoors at sunset, with the parents embracing and smiling, while two young girls playfully interact in yellow dresses surrounded by tall grass and flowers. Hanover Park family portraits
    A family enjoying a nature walk along a pathway surrounded by greenery. Hanover Park family portraits
    A father and daughter play together on a wooden bridge, with the daughter leaning over the railing. The scene is bathed in golden sunset light, creating a warm atmosphere. Hanover Park family portraits
    A mother holding her young daughter who is hugging her tightly, on a wooden pathway during sunset, surrounded by greenery. Hanover Park family portraits
    Two young girls play and twirl on a wooden boardwalk during sunset.
    Black and white portrait of a young girl with short blonde hair, smiling softly while holding her hands together near her mouth, set against a blurred natural background.
    A family enjoying a playful moment in a field during sunset, with two parents and three children. The mother in a yellow dress holds a child, while the father lifts another child joyfully. The background features tall grass and a beautiful horizon.
    A parent playfully holding a smiling young girl upside down in a grassy field during sunset.
    A couple sharing a kiss in a grassy field during sunset.
    Family walking together in a grassy field during sunset, with two girls in cute outfits and parents holding hands.
    A young girl with blonde hair wearing a white top and yellow dress, smiling while holding flowers in a field.
    A young girl with long hair, wearing a yellow dress, poses confidently in a field of wildflowers during sunset.

    Booking Your Suburban Storytelling Session

    If you want to document your own family’s milestones, I would love to connect. Whether you need Hanover Park maternity photography or a session in the city, my focus remains on the raw and real. Also, you can view my full portfolio and current pricing here. To conclude, local spots like Mallard Lake are perfect for those who love the “tall field” aesthetic.

  • Hyde Park family photography | Mayorca family story

    Hyde Park family photography | Mayorca family story

    Hyde Park Family Photography: Finding Home with the Mayorcas

    Throughout our whole session, I felt a deep connection to this family’s story. We met for Hyde Park family photography on a beautiful day, but our conversation went far beyond the scenery. Actually, it was heartbreaking to hear their longing for their original home in Venezuela. Yet, the way I saw them, it was clear that despite being forced to migrate, they have found home within each other. They truly radiated belonging.

    A black-and-white image of a couple embracing and smiling, with a sailboat in the background.
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    A Story of Connection and Belonging

    Their children were so connected and beautiful during the shoot at the South Shore Cultural Center. Specifically, we chatted about the struggle to hold onto native tongues for our kids and the way words online can hurt. Because I prioritize “honesty over poses,” I focused on capturing the raw love that defines my approach to Hyde Park family photography. Consequently, these images serve as a testament to their resilience and their unbreakable family bond.

    The Timeless Beauty of the South Shore

    The backdrop of the beach and the historic architecture provided the perfect setting for this session. Furthermore, choosing Hyde Park family photography allowed us to find quiet corners where their story could unfold naturally. Home is wherever you are, and for the Mayorcas, home is clearly in the arms of one another. I hope they one day return to their native land, but for now, I am grateful to make new friendships in this city I have adopted as my own.

    Two young girls running on a sandy beach towards sailboats, with tall grass and trees in the background. One girl wears a blue dress and the other wears a light colored outfit. An adult couple is seen hugging near the sailboats.

    Preserving Your Family’s Unique Story

    Every session is an opportunity to document a unique visual legacy. In addition, capturing these moments of transition and connection is why I love my work. Also, these images will remind the Mayorca children of the strength their parents showed during this season of their lives. By documenting their family, we have created a permanent record of their love in a beautiful Chicago landmark.

    A collage of two young girls with curly hair, smiling, and sharing a moment together. One girl wears a navy dress and a pink headband, while the other wears a white lace top with a blue headband. They are outdoors, showing a relaxed atmosphere.
    Close-up of a person with curly hair standing outdoors, with tall grass in the background. Hyde Park family photography
    A family walking together through tall grass during sunset, with sunlight illuminating the scene. Hyde Park family photography
    A woman in a red floral dress walking in a grassy field holding hands with two young girls, one wearing a white dress and the other dressed casually.
    A joyful family moment in a grassy field during sunset, featuring a woman in a red floral dress with two girls, one in a white jacket and the other in a lighter outfit, sharing a playful embrace.
    A happy family of four enjoying a moment outdoors, with a father holding his smiling daughter while a mother looks on affectionately, and another daughter gazes up at them.
    A man smiles while embracing a child in a field during sunset, captured in black and white.
    A family enjoying time together outdoors, with a man holding a child, two girls smiling at the camera, and a woman standing nearby in a grassy field.
    A group of four children and adults walking on a wooden path surrounded by tall grass during golden hour, with one girl in the foreground joyfully running ahead.
    A couple embracing in a grassy field at sunset, with the woman wearing a red floral dress and the man in a light blue shirt.
    A couple embraces outdoors during sunset, surrounded by tall grass, with warm light illuminating their faces.
    A warm and joyful family portrait featuring a man and woman surrounded by three young girls on a pathway through tall grass. The adults and children are playfully interacting, showcasing happiness and love. The scene is captured during sunset, creating a golden light atmosphere.
    Silhouette of a family standing in tall grass at sunset, with a woman holding a child and a man lifting another child in his arms. Hyde Park family photography
    A family standing on a grassy hill, with a man holding a child on his hip, while a woman in a red dress stands beside them, all looking towards the sky. Hyde Park family photography
    A family of four enjoying a day outdoors in a grassy area, with the parents embracing their two daughters. One daughter is playfully perched on the mother's back, while the other is nestled in the father's arms. The scene conveys love and togetherness. Hyde Park family photography
    A romantic couple embracing and sharing a kiss in a grassy outdoor setting, with a blurred background featuring a river and distant buildings.
    A couple sitting in a grassy field, smiling at each other while holding hands. The woman is wearing a red floral dress, and the man is in a light blue shirt, gently touching her face.
    A joyful family of four standing in grass, with two young girls hugging their mother, who is wearing a red floral dress. The father stands behind them, all of them smiling and looking at each other against a serene sky. Hyde Park family photography
    A woman standing on a wooden pathway surrounded by tall grass and greenery, with trees in the background under a partly cloudy sky. Hyde Park family photography
    A collage of black-and-white and color images featuring a family outdoors, including a mother, father, and two daughters, engaged in joyful moments. Hyde Park family photography
    A couple sitting together on a log in a natural setting, surrounded by trees and tall grass, with a serene background of water and a soft sunset sky. Hyde Park family photography
    A family walking on the beach at sunset, with two children holding hands with an adult. One child is running while the others stroll leisurely. Hyde Park family photography
    A group of children and an adult walking along a beach at sunset, with boats in the background. One child has curly hair and is wearing a dark outfit, while another is wearing a red dress with a floral pattern. Hyde Park family photography
    A couple joyfully holding hands on the beach, surrounded by children playing in the sand during a sunset, with scenic greenery in the background. Hyde Park family photography
    A couple embracing on a beach during sunset, showcasing affection and connection. Hyde Park family photography Hyde Park family photography
    A couple joyfully holding hands while laughing near the beach at sunset, with footprints in the sand. Hyde Park family photography
    A woman laughing joyfully while facing a man at the beach, with water and trees in the background during sunset. Hyde Park family photography
    A family of four walking along a sandy beach at sunset, with a calm sea in the background. Hyde Park family photography
    A colorful sky at dusk featuring soft clouds with shades of pink and blue. Hyde Park family photography

    Booking Your Soulful Chicago Session

    As a Chicago Family Photographer If you want to document your own family’s journey, I would love to tell your story. Whether you need a South Shore family session or a session in the west suburbs, my focus is always on the raw and real. Also, you can view my full portfolio and current pricing here. To conclude, the Hyde Park neighborhood remains one of my favorite local spots for its timeless beauty and depth.

  • South Shore Maternity Photos | The Adri Photo Co.

    South Shore Maternity Photos | The Adri Photo Co.

    South Shore Maternity Photos in Chicago

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

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

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

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

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

    Documenting Your Visual Legacy 

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

    I hope you enjoy this gallery!

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

    Itasca Summer Family Session | The Adri Photo Co.

    Itasca Summer Family Session: A Full Circle Moment

    One of the greatest joys of my work is watching a family grow over the years. Specifically, I originally took this sweet boy’s newborn photos. Therefore, I was thrilled to see him again for a beautiful Itasca summer family session. Don’t you love when things come full circle? Now, he’s sporting some quite peculiar and most beautiful red locks of hair. I honestly couldn’t believe the transformation!

    A woman in a blue floral dress kneels in a grassy field, holding a small child in her arms. The background features greenery and sunlight filtering through the trees. Itasca Summer Family Session
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    The Magic of Summer Clouds and Tall Grass

    We couldn’t have asked for a better day. While many people look for clear blue skies, a great Itasca summer family session often benefits from dramatic clouds. These clouds acted as a natural diffuser. Consequently, the rich, earthy colors of the landscape really popped without any harsh shadows. This created a creamy, dreamy light that is ideal for lifestyle portraits.

    Additionally, the tall grass at this location added a beautiful layer of movement. There is something so nostalgic about a toddler wandering through waist-high greenery. During this Itasca summer family session, the deep emerald tones of the summer grass provided a stunning contrast. The green background made the boy’s vibrant red hair look intentional and timeless. Furthermore, the way the wind caught the grass helped create those “unposed” moments that I strive for as a photographer.

    A woman in a blue floral dress holds a smiling young child in a gray outfit, both surrounded by greenery and soft golden light during sunset. Itasca Summer Family Session

    Documenting Your Visual Legacy

    As a Chicago documentary-style photographer, I thrive in environments where kids can be themselves. This Itasca summer family session allowed me to utilize beautiful open spaces. In these settings, the “visual legacy” of a family can unfold naturally. We focused on a palette of natural greens and warm skin tones. Most importantly, we kept the focus on the human connection.

    If you are new here, you can learn more about my approach here. On that page, I share how I focus on honesty over poses. I hope you enjoy this gallery!

    A woman wearing a floral dress holds a child closely in a serene outdoor setting, with soft, blurred backgrounds of nature and warm lighting. Itasca Summer Family Session

    Documenting Your Visual Legacy As a documentary-style photographer, I thrive in environments where kids can run and be themselves. This Itasca summer family session allowed me to utilize beautiful open spaces where the “visual legacy” of a family can unfold naturally. We focused on a palette of natural greens, soft sky blues, and warm skin tones to keep the focus on the human connection.

    If you are new here, you can learn more about my approach here, where I share how I focus on honesty over poses. I hope you enjoy this gallery and the way the shifting light played against the landscape.

    A woman in a blue floral dress holds a young child in her arms, standing in a lush green field during sunset. Itasca Summer Family Session
    A couple walks hand in hand along a gravel path surrounded by lush greenery and tall grass, with a dramatic sky filled with clouds above. Itasca Summer Family Session
    Couple embracing on a gravel path surrounded by tall grass and trees under a cloudy sky. Itasca Summer Family Session
    A family sitting in a field of tall grass and wildflowers during golden hour, with two adults and a child. One adult wears a floral blue dress and the other is in a short-sleeve shirt, while the child is in overalls. Itasca Summer Family Session
    A father sitting in a grassy field with a young child, both smiling and interacting. The background features wildflowers and a sunset sky.
    A man sits in a field with tall grass and wildflowers, interacting with a small child. The child has curly red hair and is reaching towards the man's hand, while the sun sets in the background.
    A father and his young child are sitting in a field of tall grass and wildflowers, with a sunset in the background. The child is excitedly reaching for a flower while the father smiles at him.
    A father sitting in a grassy field, happily interacting with his young child, who has curly red hair and is wearing a gray outfit. The child is holding a daisy while looking down, as the father smiles at them. Itasca Summer Family Session
    A woman in a blue floral dress embraces a child while sitting on a blanket in a grassy field, surrounded by flowers. Itasca Summer Family Session
    A mother and her young child are sitting in a field of tall grass and wildflowers during sunset. The mother smiles as the child holds a daisy flower, expressing joy and curiosity. Itasca Summer Family Session
    A joyful baby with messy hair smiles while being held by a woman, holding a daisy flower in a grassy field filled with daisies. Itasca Summer Family Session
    A family portrait featuring a couple in a lush green field at sunset, with the mother joyfully smiling at the father while holding their toddler, who appears curious. The father is gently kissing the mother, creating a warm and loving atmosphere. Itasca Summer Family Session
    A mother holding her toddler in a field of wildflowers during sunset, wearing a blue floral dress. Itasca Summer Family Session
    A man holding a toddler with red hair, while a woman leans in to kiss the child, set against a blurred natural background during sunset. Itasca Summer Family Session
    A child sitting on a blue plaid blanket in a grassy field, wearing gray overalls and a necklace, with a thoughtful expression.
    A father holds a smiling toddler aloft against a scenic backdrop of blue sky and clouds during sunset. The child has curly hair and is wearing a sleeveless outfit. In the background, a woman watches, enjoying the moment.
    A toddler with curly red hair wearing gray overalls, holding a small pink flower, standing in a green field with wildflowers. Multiple angles show the child's face and back of the head.
    A joyful toddler holding a flower is interacting with two adults in a grassy field during sunset.
    A woman in a blue floral dress smiles while holding a flower, with a child joyfully being lifted in the air against a scenic sky background.
    A mother holding her baby up in a field during sunset, with a cloudy sky overhead and tall grass surrounding them.
    A couple standing in a grassy field, smiling at each other, with a small child playing nearby. The woman is wearing a blue floral dress, and the man is in a white patterned shirt and jeans. The background features trees and a cloudy sky.
  • River Forest Woods Session | Earthy Lifestyle Photography

    River Forest Woods Session | Earthy Lifestyle Photography

    River Forest Woods Session: A Little Time in the Sun

    If you are looking for the perfect natural backdrop, a River Forest woods session offers some of the most beautiful light in the Chicago area. Recently, an amazing company reached out for a commercial lifestyle shoot in this very location. Consequently, I headed out to the lush greenery of River Forest, IL. This town is such a gem for photographers. Specifically, the tall trees and filtered sunlight provide an ideal environment for capturing families in their most natural state.

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    A man holding a baby, both smiling, in a natural outdoor setting with greenery. A woman is partially visible, gently touching the man's arm. River Forest Woods Session

    Capturing Love in the Greenery 

    The family for this River Forest woods session was absolutely stunning. Their little baby was incredibly chill and easy-going, which made my job a breeze. Every time she needed a little extra encouragement, her dad would play “Baby Shark.” Therefore, we were able to capture plenty of genuine smiles and happy moments.

    As a Chicago Family Photographer one of the most important aspects of my job is ensuring I capture families in their truth. Furthermore, I want their love to be reflected 100% in the final gallery. It was so much fun to document their connection in such a serene environment. I was also very grateful for the cooler, sun-drenched day. In Illinois, we must always be mindful of ticks and other bugs. However, the light was so perfect that it was well worth the extra precautions.

    A father holding his baby girl in a natural setting, with a mother standing beside them. The baby is wearing a white outfit with a bow in her hair, while the father is in a green shirt and cap. The background features lush greenery and soft sunlight shining through the trees. River Forest Woods Session

    Documenting Your Visual Legacy 

    As a documentary-style photographer, I thrive in these open, natural spaces. This River Forest woods session allowed the family’s “visual legacy” to unfold naturally against the earthy tones of the forest. We focused on a palette of deep greens and soft, warm skin tones to keep the focus on human connection.

    If you are looking for an outdoor session that feels honest and effortless, I would love to connect. You can learn more about my approach here to see how I focus on storytelling over stiff poses. I hope you enjoy this gallery and the way the shifting light played against the landscape!

    A woman wearing a striped dress and a wide-brimmed hat holding a baby in a serene outdoor setting near a body of water, surrounded by green trees. River Forest Woods Session
    A family sitting together outdoors on a striped blanket, with a father, mother, and their baby. The mother is holding the baby, who has curly hair and a headband, while the father leans in affectionately. River Forest Woods Session
    A close-up of a child's foot resting on an adult hand, symbolizing connection and care. River Forest Woods Session
    A father holding his baby daughter, who is wearing a white headband and a knitted outfit, as he kisses her cheek in a natural outdoor setting. River Forest Woods Session
    A joyful father lifts his infant child high above in a sunlit park, surrounded by lush green trees. River Forest Woods Session
    A happy father joyfully lifting his smiling baby daughter above his head in a lush green park. River Forest Woods Session
    A family enjoying a picnic in a grassy field with wildflowers, featuring a baby playing on a striped blanket. River Forest Woods Session
    A couple walking hand in hand on a grassy path under a wooden archway, surrounded by trees during sunset. River Forest Woods Session
    A couple embraces in a green outdoor setting while holding a baby, with sunlight filtering through trees. River Forest Woods Session
    A young child with curly hair wearing a white top and light-colored overalls sits on a striped blanket in a grassy area surrounded by yellow wildflowers.
    A joyful family scene featuring a mother, father, and their young child playing together on a blanket in a grassy area filled with yellow flowers. The parents are engaged and smiling at their baby, who is standing and reaching out to them.

    connection between mom and dad sitting on the ground
    Santing near tall grass at the Trailside museum outskirts in River fOREST il
    baby sandwich hug with both parents and baby in the middle
    mom and baby girl in trailside museum greenery
    Dad holding baby girl in a sun-filled forest in River Forest Illinois.
    Family sitting through the sun-drenched woods during a River Forest woods session.
  • Elmhurst hospital birth photographer | Adri De La Cruz

    Elmhurst hospital birth photographer | Adri De La Cruz

    Hiring an Elmhurst hospital birth photographer was something this mama prepared for thoughtfully and being the one she chose was such a gift. I’ve never seen a more calm birther than this woman. Her peaks were just so controlled and effortless, at least that is how she expressed them outwardly. The day outside was absolute perfection, and this had been my first daytime birth in a while. It was just extremely laid back, the kind of birth that feels almost meditative in the early hours.

    But then the going got tougher. The energy in the room shifted and I knew baby was close to coming earth-side. Still, with the most incredible strength and grace, she got to ten centimeters . The room quietly prepped for the baby’s arrival and you could just feel the anticipation hanging in the air.

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    A Calm Hospital Birth

    One thing I always prepare my clients for is that hospitals are much more restrictive when it comes to images during active pushing. I managed to capture a few precious frames before I was gently reprimanded it’s always a delicate dance of being present, being invisible, and honoring both the medical team and the family all at once.

    Birth doesn’t need to be dramatic to be powerful. Sometimes the most moving stories are the quiet ones a hand held, a breath released, a baby placed on a chest for the very first time. As a birth photographer serving Elmhurst and the Chicago west suburbs, I feel so privileged to witness these moments.

    Interested in Hiring an Elmhurst Hospital Birth Photographer?

    I am so proud of this amazing human, and I cannot wait to see that beautiful boy again. If you’re expecting As a Chicago Birth Photographer I would love to be your person.

  • Family photography and video Chicago | Starved Rock

    Family photography and video Chicago | Starved Rock

    Family photography and video Chicago it’s something I’ve been wanting to explore for a long time, and this little film of my own kids at Starved Rock is where I finally took that first step.

    No crew, no plan, no script. Just me, my kids, and a camera at one of our favorite places in Illinois.

    Experimenting with Family Photography and Video in Chicago

    I’ll be honest video has always intimidated me. As a photographer I’m comfortable in the stillness of a single frame, but video is a whole different language. This little film is imperfect and short, but making it taught me so much about the power of moving images alongside photography.

    Watching it back, I was struck by what video captures that photos simply can’t the sound of little feet on the trail, the way my kids move through a space, the energy of a whole afternoon condensed into a few minutes. It made me want to offer this to my families too.

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    Why I’m Bringing Video Into My Family Sessions

    My work has always been rooted in documentary storytelling. I don’t ask kids to pose or families to perform. I follow, I observe, I wait for the real thing. Video fits that philosophy perfectly — and pairing it with photography feels like a natural next step.

    If the idea of having both photos and a short film from your session sounds exciting and let’s talk about what that could look like for your family.

    a girl on rocks at starved rock park

    Starved Rock is one of those places that does the work for you. The canyons, the waterfalls, the way the light filters through the trees it’s impossible not to feel something there. For my kids it was all about the adventure, and watching them explore completely on their own terms was a good reminder of why I photograph families the way I do. No prompts, no cheese. Just life.

    family photography and video Chicago kids at Starved Rock
    Chicago family film documentary session
  • 3 Month Baby Photographer Chicago | Baby Alex

    3 Month Baby Photographer Chicago | Baby Alex

    If you’ve been told that a 3 month baby photographer Chicago session isn’t worth it because babies can’t sit up yet I’m here to change your mind. Baby Alex is living proof that three months is one of the most magical ages to photograph.

    I first met Alex at his birth, where he made a very vocal entrance into the world at a downtown Chicago hospital. Seeing him again at three months, I couldn’t believe how alert and present he had become. His eyes were wide open, taking everything in. He was smiling, cooing, and just radiating that brand new human energy that goes by way too fast.I made it, I finally got to see this beautiful boy again.

    3 month baby photographer Chicago
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    Why Chicago Parents Love 3 Month Baby Sessions

    A lot of photographers skip this age because babies aren’t doing “tricks” yet — no sitting, no crawling, no walking. But that’s exactly the point. At three months your baby still needs you completely. They curl into your chest, they lock eyes with you, they smile that gummy smile that stops your heart. That’s everything.

    As a Chicago family photographer who specializes in documentary-style sessions, I’m not looking for posed moments anyway. I’m looking for the real ones — and three months delivers in spades.

    If you’re pregnant or just had your baby and you’re thinking about a newborn session, consider adding a 3 month follow-up. You’ll be so glad you did.

    3 month baby photographer Chicago

    Whether you’re in the city or the west suburbs, booking a 3 month baby photographer Chicago families trust means getting images that capture this fleeting stage before it’s gone. Babies change so fast — what feels like yesterday becomes a blur. These sessions exist to slow that down, even just for an afternoon.

    According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the 3 month mark is a major developmental milestone — making it the perfect time to document.

    3 month baby photographer Chicago
    3 month baby photographer Chicago
    3 month baby photographer Chicago
    3 month baby photographer Chicago
    3 month baby photographer Chicago
    3 month baby photographer Chicago
  • Aurora IL Newborn Session | At-Home Documentary

    Aurora IL Newborn Session | At-Home Documentary

    Doing this Aurora IL Newborn Session was magical. I am so happy to be back again with this beautiful family for another . When I first met K, she was a mom of two and so was I. While I am still a mom of two, she has since added two more beautiful boys to her crew. Documenting a family of six is a beautiful challenge, and I am honored to tell their story as it evolves.

    Lifestyle photography from an Aurora IL newborn session
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    The Magic of an Aurora IL Newborn Session

    There is a specific energy that comes with a growing family. In this  newborn session, we didn’t focus on perfect poses or matching outfits. Instead, we leaned into the real, unscripted moments that happen when four brothers are in one room. choosing an at-home setting meant the older boys could play and be themselves while I captured the quiet snuggles with the newest baby boy.

    Why At-Home Storytelling Works

    For families in the Aurora IL area, staying home for a newborn session is often the most relaxed choice. It allows me to use the natural light of your own living room to create a timeless gallery. As a result, these images feel like a true reflection of your life in this season. If you are looking for a similar experience, feel free to explore my full newborn portfolio or check out this recent session in Geneva. This session as a Chicago Newborn photographer who loves their friends was so special. I always feel so welcomed by this lovely family .

    Lifestyle photography from an Aurora IL newborn session

    Every newborn session is a reminder of how quickly these early days pass. My goal is to capture the messy, beautiful reality of your family exactly as it is right now. If you are looking for a storyteller to document your own growing family in the Western Suburbs, please reach out via my contact page.

    Aurora IL Newborn Session
    Aurora IL Newborn Session
    Aurora IL Newborn Session
    Aurora IL Newborn Session
    Aurora IL Newborn Session
    Aurora IL Newborn Session
    Aurora IL Newborn Session
  • Starved Rock maternity photography | Kayla

    Starved Rock maternity photography | Kayla

    Planning Your Starved Rock Maternity Photography Session

    Choosing Starved Rock maternity photography means trading the flat suburbs for rugged canyons. I often find the typical Chicago scenery a bit uninspiring. Furthermore, heading to the outskirts of Illinois always reignites my creativity. The natural textures of the park provide a perfect backdrop for documentary images. For the Lunde family, the foggy October morning added a soulful, cinematic layer to their story. The boys explored the wet trails and found fall treasures while I captured these fleeting moments. As a Chicago Maternity Photographer these are my favorite type of sessions.

    Starved Rock maternity photography
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    Why Families Love Starved Rock Maternity Photography

    An outdoor session at Starved Rock State Park allows your family to interact naturally with nature. Instead of forced poses, I focus on the genuine curiosity of your children. I also document the quiet strength of your motherhood journey. As a result, the images from a Starved Rock maternity photography session aren’t just portraits. They are memories of a shared adventure.

    If you are a Chicago family looking for an adventure, I would love to help you plan a session that feels like you. Documenting this transition in a grand, natural setting is important. I ensure that your gallery reflects the wild, beautiful reality of your growing family.

    Starved Rock maternity photography

    The Spirit of an Adventure Session

     Living in the heart of the Chicago West Suburbs, it is easy to fall into a routine of familiar parks and manicured lawns. Furthermore, an adventure session at a place like Starved Rock allows you to truly disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with your family. I believe that your Starved Rock maternity photography should feel as wild and untamed as the journey of motherhood itself.

    My approach to these sessions is entirely unhurried. We take our time navigating the trails, allowing your children to lead the way and discover the small wonders of the forest. As a result, the final gallery is a collection of honest, soulful moments that capture the essence of your family’s unique bond. Whether we are chasing the golden light through the trees or embracing the moody Chicago fog, every frame tells a part of your story that deserves to be remembered.

    Starved Rock maternity photography
    Starved Rock maternity photography
    Starved Rock maternity photography
    Starved Rock maternity photography
    Starved Rock maternity photography
    Starved Rock maternity photography
    Starved Rock maternity photography
    Starved Rock maternity photography
    Starved Rock maternity photography
    Starved Rock maternity photography
    Starved Rock maternity photography