Tag: chicago family photographer

  • Portland family photographer Chicago| Portland Oregon

    Portland family photographer Chicago| Portland Oregon

    Elevate + Grow: A Portland Adventure with the Kelley Family

    Oh, Portland, you left me amazed! As a Portland family photographer Chicago residents (and Oregonians!) can trust for soulful storytelling, I had the honor of capturing the Kelley family during the Elevate + Grow workshop

    I’ve admired Jayme for a long time. Ultimately, the entire weekend felt like a soul-filling experience.

    Specifically, seeing these kiddos so in their element was wonderful. They evoked that lovely family love and so much darn fun! Brian is such a lucky dude to be surrounded by so much beauty. This family encompasses everything you want clients to be and more. Consequently, capturing them alongside so many talented friends was the highlight of my trip.

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    The Heart of a Portland Family Photographer from Chicago

    Traveling for photography allows me to see the “rhythm” of family life in entirely new landscapes. Whether I am documenting a morning in the Pacific Northwest or a sunset in Oak Park, my goal remains the same: to preserve your visual legacy. Because I value documentary storytelling, I focus on the chaos and the beauty of real life.

    Basically, I don’t want to just take a picture; I want to tell a story. As a result, these workshop sessions aren’t just for practice. They are a way for me to refine my craft so I can better serve my clients back home and across the country. Being a traveling family photographer from Chicago means I am always ready to follow a story, no matter where it leads.

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    Mentoring and Growth in Photography

    If you are a photographer looking for mentoring and education, these workshops are a testament to the power of community. Specifically, learning from peers like Jayme helps me bring fresh energy to every session I lead. If you are a family looking for a traveling family photographer from Chicago to join you on your next adventure, I would love to connect. Let’s capture the magic of your family in a place that feels like you.

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  • Geneva IL Baby Photographer | H’s First Birthday

    Geneva IL Baby Photographer | H’s First Birthday

    I love capturing those fleeting, fading baby features. As a Geneva IL baby photographer, I know how quickly these tiny details shift. Before long, Mr. H will no longer be a baby. He will be a full-on toddler. Those sweet curls in his tiny baby hairs will grow straight. Those chubby cheeks will lean out. Even that sweet baby waddle will turn into a strong, refined walk.

    This family is even adding a second addition next year! Mr. H will step into his role as a big brother just as he exits babyhood. We reached the end of the line for this sweet boy’s first-year photographs. It was a joy to document this milestone.

    Geneva IL Baby Photographer

    The Heart of a Geneva IL Baby Photographer Session

    There is something so special about at home newborn photography and first-year milestones. Being in your own space allows for those unposed, documentary moments that I live for. His demeanor is so gentle, and he is incredibly attached to his mama. I truly love witnessing that bond because I also have a son who was attached to my hip; these days, it happens less often, but I still cherish those moments when they come.

    Serving Geneva, IL and the West Suburbs 

    Whether we are doing a session in Geneva or another one of the beautiful West Suburbs, my goal is always the same: to preserve your visual legacy. I didn’t have many photos of my own childhood, which is why I am so passionate about making sure your children have these stories to look back on.

    Geneva IL Baby Photographer

    It was an honor to be the Geneva IL baby photographer for this milestone. I wish this growing family nothing but the very best! If you are looking for an infant session
     that prioritizes heart over posing, I would love to chat.

    geneva Il family photographer | cute baby H is one
    Geneva IL Baby Photographer
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  • Candid Childhood Photography Chicago | A Spring Story

    Candid Childhood Photography Chicago | A Spring Story

    We are so over winter. I know how whiny that sounds, but I’m ready for the light to change. I’ve found myself looking back at old images of warmth and sunshine. I am currently sharing these favorites because I am so deeply drawn to candid childhood photography Chicago. It isn’t just about a pretty picture. It is about freezing a season of life that disappears too fast.

    I especially miss that cute little dress. It felt like we wore it every single day two years ago. Looking at these reminds me why I love my job. These “throwback” moments are the ones that carry the most weight as the years pass.

    Candid childhood photography Chicago

    The Magic of Candid Childhood Photography Chicago

     I am currently in the midst of some “inner feeling dealings.” There is something about the transition from winter to spring that I find hard to navigate. Yet, I am always so grateful for these two. They keep me grounded even when the days feel long.

    Motherhood is a wild gig. It somehow keeps getting tougher, but it also keeps getting more beautiful. These unposed moments of my own children are my most prized possessions. If you are looking for Chicago Family Photographer  that capture the heart of your home, you are in the right place.

    Candid childhood photography Chicago

    Honest Storytelling in the West Suburbs

     Whether we are exploring local parks or staying cozy at home, my goal is to document the honesty of your family. If you are planning your next session, It helps ensure your portraits feel editorial yet real.

    I am so looking forward to the warmth. Spring, please hurry up! If you’re ready to book your own session for candid childhood photography Chicago, let’s connect. It was an honor to revisit these memories today. I can’t wait to create new ones with you soon.

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    Candid childhood photography Chicago
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    Candid childhood photography Chicago

  • Lifestyle Newborn Photography Itasca | Baby W At-Home Session

    Lifestyle Newborn Photography Itasca | Baby W At-Home Session

    New life near the holidays always feels a little more magical. I photographed this sweet little family right before Christmas, and their home was the perfect, cozy backdrop for lifestyle newborn photography Itasca. They were so gracious and inviting from the moment I walked through the door.

    Meeting new parents always takes me back to my own experiences. There is a specific kind of quiet chaos and immense love that fills a home during those first few weeks. Baby W is truly the luckiest little dude; his parents gushed over him the entire time we were together.

    lifestyle newborn photography Itasca

    My favorite part of the session was winning over the “first baby” their pup. At first, he seemed a bit hesitant, perhaps feeling protective now that a new human was in his space. Eventually, he couldn’t resist and was all over the baby, showing off that loyal bond. These unposed, honest moments between a growing family and their pets are exactly why I love being a Chicago at-home newborn photographer

    Their beautiful home sat right in the heart of such a cute town. It served as a wonderful backdrop for all the love they shared. If you are looking for lifestyle newborn photography Itasca, remember that your own home is often the most meaningful studio you could ask for.

    Take a peek at their session below.

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    The Beauty of Lifestyle Newborn Photography Itasca

    “Being based so close to Itasca, I find myself driving through this charming community constantly. It has become one of my favorite pockets for sessions because of the variety it offers. While I adore the intimacy of an at-home session like Baby W’s, I’m also frequently at Songbird Slough for outdoor family portraits. There is something about the way the light hits the tall grasses there that feels so cinematic and honest—much like the ‘milky city lights’ mentioned in the poem above.

    Whether we are documenting your story inside your living room or wandering through the trails at the Slough, my goal remains the same: capturing the genuine connection that makes your family unique. If you’re curious about how an outdoor session compares to an at-home one, you can see more from this family > Itasca family photography as they are their family. or check out the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County  to see why I love that location so much.

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  • Chicago lifestyle photography inspiration | PNW Travel Story

    Chicago lifestyle photography inspiration | PNW Travel Story

    Chicago lifestyle photography inspiration comes in all ways to me. Last year, I finally convinced my family to attend Click Away with me. Although I have been holding onto these images for a while, I finally narrowed down my favorites. As a result, I am finally sharing this journey. Time flies, and it is already nearly a year since we visited the Pacific Northwest. While I do not have many photos of the actual event, I do have these precious memories of my children.

    Initially, we drove four hours from our downtown Seattle location. We wanted to make a Twilight fan’s dreams come true, and the drive was absolutely worth it. Furthermore, the scenery was breathtaking, even if the drive was longer than our actual flight!

    We drove 4 hours from our downtown Seattle location, to make a Twilight fan dreams come true. It was so worth it. Granted the drive was longer than our flight but who cares.

    My photos do not give this place its rightful justice. My kid is begging to go again, and I think we might have to. If you make it to the end you’re the real MVP.

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    Finding Chicago Lifestyle Photography Inspiration Outdoors

    Notably, traveling often provides the best Chicago lifestyle photography inspiration. When I am away from home, I am reminded of how important it is to document the ‘in-between’ moments. You just know, I love the way the mist looks against the trees and how my children interact with new landscapes.

    Consequently, I bring this same documentary perspective back to my sessions in Illinois. Whether we are in the PNW or the local forest preserves, my goal is to capture your family’s honest connection. For instance, if you enjoy this candid style, you can see more of my Chicago family photography or learn more about Click Away photography conferences 

    These photos do not do the location justice, but they mean the world to me. My kids are already begging to go back! If you made it to the end of this gallery, you are the real MVP. Take a peek at our PNW adventure below.”

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    Chicago lifestyle photography inspiration from PNW travel.
    Chicago lifestyle photography inspiration from PNW travel.
    Chicago lifestyle photography inspiration from PNW travel.
    Chicago lifestyle photography inspiration from PNW travel.

  • Indiana Travel Newborn Photographer: A Soulful At-Home Session

    Indiana Travel Newborn Photographer: A Soulful At-Home Session

    Indiana Travel Newborn Photographer: Margo’s Soulful Home Session

    As an Indiana travel newborn photographer, I live for unique family stories like this one. Meet Margo—or “Sprinkles,” as her mama nicknamed her during pregnancy. Her beautiful family welcomed her into the world, and her big brother, Miles, and big sister, Sophie, already adore her.

    When I arrived for this session, my great friend Christine greeted me at the door. She immediately apologized for the missing house numbers, as they made me search for the right home. Eventually, the stunning baskets of succulents lining the entrance helped me find the house—a shared love of ours!

    Indiana travel newborn photographer

    Documentary Details with an Travel Newborn Photographer

    Inside, Christine’s eye for design clearly stood out. Her home features lush greenery, beautiful wall art, and a bold black feature wall. Naturally, she loves color! I absolutely adored the theme for Margo’s room: “Sprinkles and Narwhals.” It served as a perfect tribute to her nickname. Margo slept soundly throughout the session, which allowed me to capture her quiet, authentic world. Chicago Newborn photographer.

    Indiana travel newborn photographer

    Candid Moments from an Indiana Travel Newborn Photographer

    One of my favorite, most honest moments happened when Margo decided to go to the bathroom right after a fresh diaper change! It was endearing to watch how smitten Miles and Sophie were with their new baby sister. This is exactly what I look for as an Indiana travel newborn photographer—those unscripted, “real life” moments that tell the true story of your home.

    The fun continued outside the nursery. The kids were incredibly excited to show me their chickens. We explored their favorite spots, and the swing and the garden topped the list. Sophie even gifted me a beautiful, large pear from their tree—an adventure I won’t soon forget.

    Indiana travel newborn photographer

    Booking Your Session

    It was an absolute honor to be invited inside to capture this new chapter as a family of five. While I am based in the Chicago area, I frequently work as an Indiana travel newborn photographer for families looking for this same soulful, unposed, and documentary-style photography.

    Are you looking to capture your own family’s unique story? You can view more of my newborn portfolio  to start planning your session. I am currently booking travel dates and would love to tell your story.

    Indiana travel newborn photographer
    A young girl helps her mother change a baby's diaper on a soft changing pad in a dimly lit room.
    A collage of images showing a baby being swaddled and cared for, with an older child sitting nearby, laughing and watching. One image features a parent attending to the baby on a changing table, while another captures a moment of playfulness from the older sibling in a softly lit room.
    A black and white image of a couple joyfully holding their newborn baby in a cozy nursery setting.
    Indiana travel newborn photographer
    Indiana travel newborn photographer
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  • Chicago Lifestyle Storytelling | Wild & Free Family Portraits

    Chicago Lifestyle Storytelling | Wild & Free Family Portraits

    Chicago Lifestyle Storytelling: Lessons in Kindness

    I truly believe that every single day offers an opportunity to teach your children about kindness. While these lessons may not always seem obvious, they exist everywhere. For example, it might be as simple as sparing the life of a tiny bug that wandered into your home. Alternatively, it can be as heart-wrenching as explaining that some animals simply do not belong as pets. This is why I love Chicago lifestyle storytelling; it allows me to document these small but massive life lessons as they happen.

    Chicago lifestyle storytelling

    Teaching Empathy Through Adventure

    My sweet son, Lucas, recently begged to keep several frogs as indoor pets. Fortunately, we convinced him otherwise, although the process involved a few tears. It was difficult to explain that a freeing, natural environment is kinder than a warm box in our house.

    Rationalizing with a five-year-old is never easy, especially when they want something so badly. However, because Lucas is a massive animal lover, he eventually understood. We have future plans to adopt a dog, but for now, we pretend our stuffed animals are alive. As a photographer focusing on Chicago lifestyle storytelling, I find these transitions between childhood whims and real-world empathy so beautiful to capture.

    Chicago lifestyle storytelling

    Documenting Childhood with Chicago Lifestyle Storytelling

    I had promised to take photos of the frogs for him because I adore his nostalgic heart. As I photographed the tiny frogs in his hands, my youngest jumped fearlessly into the pond. Consequently, the rest of the session just evolved naturally. We spent the afternoon watching the ripples in the water and talking about where the frogs go when the sun sets.

    If you know my family, you know that we love to get messy. This is exactly why we do not own “nice things.” Thankfully, we prioritize love and adventure above all else. Because of that, I feel so happy to have these images of my children captured wild and free. These are the moments that truly define Chicago lifestyle storytelling—the unposed, mud-on-the-knees reality of being a kid.

    Planning Your Storytelling Session

    Are you looking for a Chicago family photographer storytelling session that captures your family exactly as you are? I specialize in documentary-style photography that celebrates the messy, beautiful reality of childhood. Whether we are exploring a local pond or staying cozy in your living room, my goal is to tell your story with soul and authenticity.

    View my storytelling portfolio or get in touch with me here to start planning your session today. I am currently booking for the upcoming season and would love to document your family’s wild and free moments. The images were taken in Itasca IL.

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    Chicago lifestyle storytelling
    Chicago lifestyle storytelling
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  • Hanover Park Family Photos | The Lunde Family

    Hanover Park Family Photos | The Lunde Family

    This sweet family is soon welcoming a third boy, and capturing their story through Hanover Park family photos is always such an effortless joy. They make my job as a documentary photographer so easy! Since we were working around nap times for this session, mom brought along some raisins as a little bribe—and they worked like a charm to keep the energy fun and light.

    A series of three images featuring a toddler exploring outdoors. The first image shows the child looking down, with a blurred background of grass. The second image captures the child with a thoughtful expression while holding a finger to their mouth. The third image depicts the child reaching up towards an out-of-frame object, revealing soft curls and wearing a gray straps shirt. Hanover Park Family Photos

    Capturing Authentic Hanover Park Family Photos

    There is something so bittersweet about expecting a third child; knowing your whole world is about to change as you become outnumbered by little ones. I loved capturing these final moments as a family of four before their new bundle arrives. We had such a blast exploring together—I hope they enjoy these nostalgic images as much as I do. I love capturing growing families as a Maternity photographer in Chicago.

    A family of four spending time together in a grassy area, with two children playing and interacting with their parents, who are sitting on a colorful quilt. The scene captures a moment of togetherness and joy.

    There is a beautiful, quiet magic in documenting a family right on the edge of a big change. For the Lunde family’s latest session, we captured Hanover Park family photos that were all about real connection and unscripted play. Even with the challenge of nap schedules (shoutout to the raisins for saving the day!), the result was a gallery full of genuine, unposed moments.

    Transitioning to a family of five is such a milestone. It was an honor to document the raw beauty of their current dynamic before their third son joins the crew. These images feel like a nostalgic keepsake of this specific chapter, and I’m so excited to share this adventure with them. My editing has changed so much, I love how cooler tones these are but how different. This location also has been such a staple in my work, I love the tall grass. The water and the trees, all suit so well towards my documentary style of Photography. I love sharing stories.

    A family of four standing outdoors in a grassy area, with parents holding their children. The mother is wearing a white dress, while the father is dressed in a light blue shirt. The children are in casual outfits, with one child being held in the mother's arms and another in the father's arms.
    A pregnant woman wearing a white dress standing barefoot on a path, with trees and sunlight in the background.
    A couple embracing in a grassy field, sharing an intimate moment while the woman cradles her pregnant belly. One image captures their foreheads touching, while others show close-ups of their expressions. Hanover Park Family Photos
    A couple standing in a field, with the pregnant woman gently holding her belly while the man places his hands over hers.
    A family of four enjoying a sunny outdoor moment, with parents smiling at their toddler who is sitting on one parent's lap, surrounded by nature. Hanover Park Family Photos
    A family enjoying a day by a lake, with a father holding a toddler's hand while standing in the water, and two young children playing nearby. The scene is illuminated by soft sunlight, creating a warm, outdoor atmosphere. Hanover Park Family Photos
    A pregnant woman in a white dress stands by a lake, smiling, while a young boy in a blue shirt and yellow pants watches. A little girl in a blue outfit plays in the water with a man in a light blue shirt nearby.
    Pregnant woman in a white dress cradles her baby bump near a lake, while a toddler explores the shoreline. Hanover Park Family Photos
    A toddler in a blue overall stands in shallow water, holding a small rock, while two adults and another child walk in the background. The scene features a reflection of sunlight on the water, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Hanover Park Family Photos
    A family of four stands by a riverbank, with parents lovingly looking at each other. The mother is pregnant, wearing a flowing white dress, while the father gently touches her belly. Two young children are present, one boy standing beside the mother and a baby being held by the father. The scene is lit by natural sunlight, surrounded by tall grasses and a serene landscape. Hanover Park Family Photos