CHICAGO WEDDING & FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

Tag: chicago portrait photographer

  • Elgin IL Newborn Photography | At-Home Lifestyle Session

    Elgin IL Newborn Photography | At-Home Lifestyle Session

    There is a quiet, sacred kind of magic that settles over a home after a baby arrives. As an Elgin IL newborn photography artist, I feel incredibly lucky to witness this bubble. Many people think of newborn photos as babies in baskets. However, my heart belongs to the lifestyle approach. I prefer capturing the real, unscripted love that happens in your own living room.

    The Beauty of the “In-Between” Moments

    When I arrived at this beautiful home in Elgin, the energy was very calm. Specifically, this is the biggest perk of an at-home session. There is simply no pressure. We aren’t rushing to a studio or worrying about the weather. Instead, we follow the baby’s lead. If they need to nurse, we wait. If they need a snuggle, we capture it.

    These sessions are about more than just a cute face. For example, we document the way your hands look holding theirs. We also capture the light hitting the nursery you decorated. Choosing Elgin IL newborn photography in your own space is a wonderful idea. Consequently, every corner of the image has a memory attached to it.

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    Creating a Relaxed Experience

    baby's feet in black and white

    Furthermore, I often tell my clients not to worry about a “perfect” house. The most beautiful photos often happen in simple spots. This might be a sun-drenched bed or a rocking chair by the window. My goal is to make you feel comfortable. Therefore, I act more like a friend with a camera than a formal photographer.

    To help you prepare, I suggest focusing on comfort. In addition, choose soft textures and neutral tones. These choices let your connection take center stage. For more inspiration, you can check out [suspicious link removed] for color ideas.

    Capturing Your Story in Elgin

    Being a part of this family’s journey was a joy. These early days are a blur of wonder. Therefore, I am honored to help freeze those moments in time. This Elgin IL newborn photography session was special. Ultimately, it was about honoring a brand-new chapter for this family.

    little details of a newborn
    cute baby laying gin crib
    baby close up yawning
    Close up of newborn details during a lifestyle newborn photography shoot in Elgin IL
    mom and dad having an embrace near their baby's crib
    black and white artsy image of mom and da holding their baby
    dad cuddling baby while mom smiles at them both
    holding baby's fingers and feet
    Dad holding his newborn son in a rocking chair for Elgin IL newborn photography
    mom swaying with her newborn
    Mother cuddling her baby during an Elgin IL newborn photography session
    above view of new parents
    mom and dad sitting on the carpet holding their baby boy
    Parents sharing a quiet moment with their baby during an Elgin IL home session
    dad holding his newborn and smiling by a window
    mom sitting on the floor feeding her baby
    family on bed
    mom and baby on bed
    mom and baby on bed
    newborn baby on bed
    mom holding her baby on bed
    Candid family laughter during an at-home Elgin IL newborn photography shoot
    mom kissing baby
    Artistic view of a family home during an Elgin IL newborn photography session
    light and shadows newborn photographer
    example of a family portrait

  • Montrose Bird Point Sanctuary Family Session | Chicago

    Montrose Bird Point Sanctuary Family Session | Chicago

    Planning a family session at the Montrose Bird Point Sanctuary is one of my favorite ways to spend a morning in Chicago. Sometimes kiddos aren’t as warm to me as quickly as their parents would want, and that’s okay. Specifically, this little kiddo was a bit apprehensive at the start of our shoot. Because the camera can be intimidating, I always focus on making the session feel like a walk in the park. Consequently, I often hear parents ask, ‘what do I do with my hands?’ To that question, the answer is always to hold someone you love

    In fact, I love to photograph connection and movement. For this reason, the Montrose Bird Point Sanctuary is one of my favorite locations in Chicago. This beach offers so much space for kids to run and feel free. Therefore, it helps them feel much more at ease than a traditional studio setting.

    The Montrose Bird Point Sanctuary is truly a beautiful location! Additionally, if you want a mix of wild texture and the city skyline, it is perfect. Because it allows kids to explore the paths, it makes for a very relaxed family session. This family was so kind and sweet throughout the entire morning.

    A Sunny Session at the Montrose Bird Point Sanctuary

    Even with the initial shyness, this kiddo gave us many cute moments to document. Furthermore, the morning sun provided a stunning, warm glow across the dunes. Overall, it was a successful day in a gorgeous place. If you are looking for a location with the Chicago skyline and a touch of nature, this is the spot. In conclusion, every session in the city has its own unique rhythm. Whether a child is shy or energetic, I aim to document the truth of your family. As a result, these photos become timeless keepsakes for years to come.

    A father joyfully holding his young daughter up in the air, both smiling and enjoying a sunny day outdoors.
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    kiddo in sunlight Family posing at the Montrose Bird Point Sanctuary in Chicago
    fall photoshoot in Chicago Family posing at the Montrose Bird Point Sanctuary in Chicago
    A mother and daughter stand together by a wooden fence surrounded by greenery and wildflowers. The mother, dressed in a white outfit, gently interacts with her daughter, who wears an orange skirt.
    A black and white photo of a family playing outdoors. A young girl stands in the foreground looking slightly unsure, while her parents dance around her. The background features a wooden fence and lush greenery.
    A smiling woman and a young girl enjoying a moment together by a flower-filled fence, with greenery in the background. Montrose Bird Point Sanctuary
    mom and dad tickling kid Family posing at the Montrose Bird Point Sanctuary in Chicago
    mom holding daughter Family posing at the Montrose Bird Point Sanctuary in Chicago
    A joyful adult is playfully lifting a laughing child upside down in a grassy outdoor setting. Montrose Bird Point Sanctuary
    A family portrait featuring a woman, a man, and a toddler standing together near a wooden fence, surrounded by lush greenery.
    A woman holding a girl in her arms while smiling at the camera, with a sparkling body of water and a city skyline in the background.
    A man holding the hand of a young girl in a grassy outdoor setting. The girl is wearing an orange skirt and a cream-colored cardigan, while the man is wearing light-colored pants and a dark shirt.
    Family posing at the Montrose Bird Point Sanctuary in Chicago
  • Untitled post 11111

    S

    Winter is the calm after the busy Fall season. It goes by rather quickly. I’m so grateful for that calmness but I like being in the thick of my client work the most. This year however I decided to embrace some personal work a little more for these restless days. The challenge was quite simple ; capture yourself, one image a day for the month of February. I’ve never done anything like this. To be honest I do care about how I’m perceived, I think anyone who says otherwise is just lying to themselves. & honestly this is just screaming I love myself a little too much, for a moment It took on a negative feeling. But when that settled I thought of all of those days when I didn’t love myself, and how l behaved in the moments I lacked self love.

    For the first time in my life I truly + completely love every . single. part. of my being. I am intentionally working on not using words like good or bad to describe myself, but what I will say is that anything that I was lacking before is so full to the brim now. Self Portraiture has always been a gift to the artist. These are a gift to me and my children, I know one day not terribly close but in the near future I’ll look different. I’ll feel different. My hope is that my new found compassion for myself only grows.

    Today in the middle of my 32nd birth year I am heartbroken, growing, expanding, learning and practicing what I preach. I am a multitude of feelings, I am things I can’t describe yet. Words I can’t find. These images have truly shown me that when I decide to show up for myself great things can happen. While these images may seem ordinary to most there are big connections to parts of me I have or I am in the process of grieving.

    I hope you try showing up for yourself

    I won’t lie. This has been so hard. I selected the coldest month to do this project, because clearly I don’t think things through enough lol. I just jump right in. That’s me. So I’m desperately thinking of new ways to use my tiny space. Not to mention new ways to see myself. I’m deeply proud of how I’ve stuck with it and I’m now more than half way through this project. It’s so so cool. I have always been the type to lean into the discomfort. & this, the capturing myself daily has been uncomfortable as hell.

    I try to close my eyes pop on some Carla Morrison and let inspiration take me where it wants to. I have also let my mind wander, my smiles are genuine, thoughts of my children and other people I love run across my mind and I can’t help but smile and send them light and love always. If you are seeking inspiration in anything I hope you always remember you are always the source of greatness. Start with you today.

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    self portrait of woman topless facing away smiling on a couch
    black and white photo of woamn playing with her hair
    cloudy self portrait of woman and flowers
    self portrait of woman on desk
    self portrait of woman in shower in black and white with hand on the glass
    a self portrait of a of and her son
    self portrait of a naked woman outlined by a plant
    a self portrait reflection of a woman reading
    close up monochrome of self portrait of woman with closed eyes
    self portrait of woman jumping
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    a little movement self portrait
    self portrait of woman in man's white shirt
    self portrait of mom and daughter on the floor reading
    self portrait of woman touching hair
  • 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.

  • California couples photography session | Luis & Ale engaged

    California couples photography session | Luis & Ale engaged

    When you have a dope sister who loves to photograph love and you get engaged and need a  California couples photography session, you have to fly her out immediately, obviously! I won’t lie and say there wasn’t awkwardness. I mean, a couples session is meant to be intimate and full of connection, trust, and love.

    couple reaching out for each other California couples photography session at Imperial Sand Dunes
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    Walking through all of this sand is incredibly difficult. Additionally, shooting with primes means I am constantly running back and forth like a silly goose for just the right angle. Let’s just say I got a killer workout. I am so incredibly happy with these images. Consequently, it feels like I am finally checking a major shoot off my photographer bucket list. The sand dunes provided a gorgeous backdrop and they did not disappoint.

    couple in sand dunes California couples photography session at Imperial Sand Dunes

    The Magic of a California Couples Photography Session

    While Luis and Ale are officially married, I can’t wait to see my little brother walking down the aisle. I’ll also see both my mom and dad in tears because I’m sure he’s the favorite! He is five years younger than me. Furthermore, I remember feeling annoyed when he was born. I didn’t get the point of adding another sibling after five years of solitude.

    Growing up, he was always far more responsible than me. He would open doors at four in the morning as I was getting home from a night of partying. In addition, he always got up early for school while I just rolled out of bed. Eventually, he chose to move to California for the love of his life. He made the necessary changes for his own happiness. I am so proud of him for living in his truth.

    couple laughing and kissing at the sand dunes California couples photography session at Imperial Sand Dunes

    Family Milestones in the Desert

    Ale is such a sweetheart and she doesn’t take any shit. Therefore, she is the perfect match for him. We are tough people to love because we don’t always let others in. However, she has managed to make my brother someone who is open to love. She has made it safe for him to be himself. Consequently, I am so happy to welcome her into my family.

    I look forward as a Chicago Wedding photographer and his sister for many future trips to capture their upcoming milestones. Ultimately, I hope to document their years together and eventually their babies. No pressure, but I really want to be an aunt soon! Whether it is a wedding or a California couples photography session, I love being part of their story. For this location information

    kissing couple California couples photography session at Imperial Sand Dunes
    California couples photography session at Imperial Sand Dunes
    about to couple at imperial sandunes
    Intimate desert sunset California couples photography session
    couple at sunset at imperial sanddunes
    Intimate desert sunset California couples photography session
    Intimate desert sunset California couples photography session
    A woman in a flowing black dress stands on sandy dunes during sunset, creating a dramatic contrast with the soft landscape.
    A couple sitting on a sand dune in a desert, embracing each other while looking at each other affectionately, captured in black and white.
    A couple sitting closely on a sand dune, sharing a kiss during sunset.
    A couple sits together on sand dunes at sunset, sharing an intimate moment. The woman in a red dress leans into the man as he kisses her cheek. The scene captures a romantic atmosphere.
    A couple sitting closely together on a sandy dune during sunset, with the woman in a red dress and the man in a black shirt.
    Silhouette of a couple walking hand in hand on a sand dune during sunset, with dramatic skies in the background.
    A couple holding hands while walking on a sandy dune during sunset.
    A couple embraces on top of a sand dune under a blue sky with wispy clouds.
    A couple playfully poses in a desert landscape, with the woman giving the man a piggyback ride. The scene captures the joy and connection between them, framed by gentle sand dunes and a cloudy sky.
    A couple embracing in a desert setting during sunset, with soft sand dunes in the background.
    A couple standing hand in hand on a sandy dune, captured in black and white, under a cloudy sky.
    A close-up of a woman's hand with an engagement ring resting on a man's neck, showcasing intimacy.
    A couple sharing a romantic kiss in a desert setting, with soft sand dunes and a cloudy sky in the background.
    A couple stands playfully on a sandy dune, smiling at each other. The woman wears a flowing burgundy dress, while the man dresses casually in black. The desert landscape features soft, undulating dunes under a blue sky.

  • Standing in the light | Chicago and west suburbs photographer

    Standing in the light | Chicago and west suburbs photographer

    This post is a little departure from what I usually blog, beautiful families with tiny humans who bring so much joy. But I think throwing something different at you is something you can handle. May even be necessary. I’ve been exploring what my womanhood means to me. & I probably shoud have shared self portraits along with my words, but sharing women who inspire me seemed more fitting. I would say that unless I found myself on the path that I am on I would have never even questioned what I thought about womanhood. These images are from Austin, the last location for the last workshop I hosted. I had a conversation with my friend B via Facetime recently, in which we agreed that for both of us so much perspective and change came about leaving our nests for these workshops. I can’t speak for everyone who has ever ventured out of their comfort zones but for me, I can’t live without the challenge. If I get too comfortable it becomes this nagging feeling that I need to push myself. That’s what these workshops meant. Pushing myself and in the process discovering more about what it means to fail and to get comfortable with the unknown. Im evolving my thinking and have so much to uncover but for now I’ll leave it at this new discovery is beautiful. This new questioning is amazing. Womanhood is dope as hell. I’m so excited to grow more into myself.

    Can I also say how important it is to sorround yourself with inspiring women who are living their life in their own way unapologetically. Both Britt and Angela have in so many silent ways encouraged me to live authentically. This ish is hard, I won’t lie. I remember when I first became aquainted with these two women. Their existence and the way they moved through the world made me so uncomfortable. I think it was because to me, they were living true to themselves and I didn’t know at the time how desperately I wanted that to be me. These days I am living and standing in my truth. I know without a shadow of a doubt what I want and I am persuing that passionately. I hope this post encourages you to do the same.

    “This life is mine alone. So I have stopped asking people for directions to places they’ve never been.”

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  • Itasca Maternity Photographer | Adri De La Cruz

    Itasca Maternity Photographer | Adri De La Cruz

    Booking an Itasca maternity photographer on a sunny day after weeks of rain felt like a gift and this mama delivered. Even without that gorgeous golden hour light, we found something dreamier, softer, and honestly more her. No matter what the light does, mamas-to-be carry their own glow. Honest to god, they don’t even have to try.

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    Inspiring Maternity photos Itasca IL

    This beautiful woman is welcoming her third baby boy, and life was doing what life does piling things on all at once. Her middle child had just gotten a long-awaited doctor’s appointment, landing right as she was preparing to bring a new baby into the world. Women are such warriors. I knew without a doubt she would rise to every single moment — advocating fiercely, loving fully, and somehow making it all look effortless.

    I cannot wait to meet this new little one.

    If you’re expecting and looking for a maternity photographer serving Itasca and the Chicago west suburbs, I would love to document this season for you.

    Itasca Maternity Photographer

    For this session I did a lot of cool experimenting with textures, the clear plastic created this hazy halo effect, I also did over exposures as well. I also loved playing with hard light. Using the light directionally to create interesting visual composition within our frames. Lastly I love a blue sky. I think clouds are my favorite but the blue and green contrast made these so beautiful. This is what im talking about. When I photograph you as your Chicago Maternity Photographer expect to kool beautiful, yes. But also to look inspiring and to have your eye be challenged.

    Itasca Maternity Photographer
    Itasca Maternity Photographer
    Itasca Maternity Photographer
    Itasca Maternity Photographer

    The wind really was another paid actor here. I love the texture flowy hair and dresses add to maternity photography. It is whimsical Af to see so much beauty in the frame.

    Itasca Maternity Photographer

    Itasca Maternity Photographer
    Itasca Maternity Photographer
    Itasca Maternity Photographer
    Itasca Maternity Photographer
    Itasca Maternity Photographer

  • Batavia IL Baby Photographer | Six Month Session

    Batavia IL Baby Photographer | Six Month Session

    As a Batavia IL baby photographer, I get a front row seat to some of the most fleeting, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moments in a child’s life. Six months have already gone by since her newborn shoot and the difference is wild. The cheeks, the chubby thighs, the way she’s suddenly holding her own head up like she owns the room. Every single day brings a new change, and babies wear time in the most beautiful, pronounced way. I also photographed the first year of her brothers life, and I think that’s such a beautiful thing to be a part of. A family’s growth.

    This sweet little lady was mostly all smiles. She’s learning to find her balance when she sits, and she is so aware of her big brother glancing over at him every chance she got, like he’s the most fascinating thing in her whole world. Honestly? She’s not wrong.

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    Why Hire a Batavia IL Baby Photographer?

    This is exactly why I always tell families: don’t wait. Don’t blink. Babyhood is short and your camera roll of blurry phone pics is not the same as having it truly documented. The chubby thighs don’t last. The wobbly sit doesn’t last. Even the way they look at their siblings in pure adoration — it changes faster than you expect.

    Experts agree that the first year of a baby’s development is the most rapid period of growth in a child’s life which is exactly why documenting each milestone matters so much. As a Chicago Family Photographer and Batavia IL baby photographer milestone sessions from newborn through first birthday are some of my most treasured work. You can see more on my portfolio .

    If you’ve been thinking about a session — this is your sign. These babies don’t keep as much as we try.

    Batavia IL baby photographer
    Batavia IL baby photographer
    Batavia IL baby photographer
    Batavia IL baby photographer
    Batavia IL baby photographer
    Batavia IL baby photographer

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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.

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    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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    geneva Il family photographer | cute baby H is one
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    geneva Il family photographer | cute baby H is one
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    Chicago and west suburbs family photographer Hudson is one (32)
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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.

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    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.

    Candid childhood photography Chicago
    Candid childhood photography Chicago
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    Candid childhood photography Chicago