The Adri Photo Co.

Tag: chicago

  • First Birthday Portraits Chicago | at home with Ruhani

    First Birthday Portraits Chicago | at home with Ruhani

    Capturing First Birthday Portraits Chicago is a beautiful way to mark a major milestone. Because every parent looks forward to this day, the pressure can feel high. However, we decided to stay at home with Ruhani for her session instead of going to a studio. Specifically, a studio can sometimes feel too rushed for a toddler. By contrast, staying home kept the atmosphere calm and helped us capture her real personality. As a result, we saw those tiny, sweet expressions that make being one so special.

    one year old balloon for first birthday portraits in chicago at home
    Ruhani smiling off to the side Ruhani sitting for her First Birthday Portraits Chicago
    A cute plush rabbit wearing a party hat next to a pink balloon and a shiny balloon number First Birthday Portraits Chicago
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    The Benefit of At Home First Birthday Portraits Chicago

    There are many perks to taking First Birthday Portraits Chicago at home. First, the comfort level of the baby is much higher in a familiar space. Additionally, Ruhani was near her favorite toys and familiar faces. Since Chicago is a busy city, traveling to a studio can be stressful. Therefore, staying home meant fewer tears and more smiles. Furthermore, we did not need a fancy backdrop. A simple patch of natural light was all we needed, and it made her glow perfectly.

    Simple DIY Setup for First Birthday Portraits Chicago

     Are you planning your own DIY session in the city? If so, remember that less is often more. For instance, for Ruhani’s photos, we focused on these three things:

    • Natural Lighting: We set up near a large glass door to catch the morning sun.
    • Minimal Props: We used a simple wooden “one” sign and neutral blankets.
    • Patience: We followed her lead rather than forcing difficult poses.
    cake smash at Ruhani sitting for her First Birthday Portraits Chicago
    mom and baby xRuhani sitting for her First Birthday Portraits Chicago

    The Joy of the Cake Smash 

    No first birthday is complete without a little mess. We gave Ruhani a small vanilla cake. At first, she wasn’t sure what to do. Then, she poked the frosting with one tiny finger. Before we knew it, there was cake everywhere! These moments make for the best first birthday portraits in chicago. They show the pure joy of love & discovery.

    Ruhani's at-home First Birthday Portraits Chicago outfit details.
    A close-up black and white portrait of a curious baby girl with big eyes, wearing a dress with ruffled sleeves and a flower in her hair.
    A young girl wearing a pastel dress sits on a colorful rug, holding an open storybook. Behind her, a 'Happy Birthday' banner and a large inflated number one are visible, along with various colorful balloons and stuffed animals.
    A man kissing a young girl on the cheek in a bright room, with a 'Happy Birthday' banner in the background First Birthday Portraits Chicago
    A father joyfully lifts his young daughter, who is wearing a pink dress, in a well-lit room with white walls and window blinds First Birthday Portraits Chicago

    What Ruhani Wore for Her Milestone Session 

    Choosing an outfit is a big part of First Birthday Portraits Chicago. We chose a soft, cream-colored linen romper. It did not distract from her face. Neutral colors work best for indoor photos. They keep the focus on the baby’s expressions. If you are looking for more local ideas, check out this guide to family-friendly activities in Chicago to find great photo locations.

  • Chicago skyline newborn photography | Sam’s Downtown Session

    Chicago skyline newborn photography | Sam’s Downtown Session

    I love that a Chicago skyline newborn photography session is possible on warm clear days. I saw Sam twice this season. First, I did his Fresh 48 session. Then, we did this session downtown. Because his family is moving away, we needed the city views. Consequently, Sam will always know his roots.

    The weather was perfect for an outdoor newborn session. Specifically, it was a warm fall day. Therefore, the baby was very comfortable. In fact, the light by the lake was very soft. As a result, Sam stayed asleep for most of the shoot. Furthermore, the city buildings looked great in the background. Meanwhile, we focused on Sam’s tiny details.

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    A sleeping newborn baby wrapped in a soft, gray cloth, lying peacefully on a textured surface.
    A sleeping newborn baby swaddled in a gray blanket, resting peacefully on a soft surface.
    CLOSE UP OF HAND Chicago skyline newborn photography
    A close-up of a sleeping newborn baby with their hand resting on their face, wrapped in soft fabric, in black and white.
    PARENTS SITTING BY LAKE HOLDING THEIR BABY Chicago skyline newborn photography
    A close-up of a couple gently holding their newborn baby, smiling at each other, with soft focus on their faces and hands.
    Black and white image of a couple sitting on a blanket in a grassy area, with the woman holding a swaddled baby in her arms while the man looks at the baby, both smiling.
    Close-up of a person's hand holding a baby's foot, with a blurred natural background.
    A woman in a polka-dot dress and denim jacket stands on grass near a lake, holding a baby in her arms. The Chicago skyline, including a tall building, is visible in the background under a hazy sky.
    A couple walking in a park, with the man holding a baby in his arms while the woman walks beside him, both smiling and enjoying their time together under a tree.
    NEWBORN SESSION IN DOWNTOWN CHICAGO
    A smiling man wearing glasses holds a wrapped baby in his arms, standing under a leafy tree near a body of water.
    A woman wearing a denim jacket holds a baby in her arms, surrounded by a lush green landscape and a tree with berries.
    Close-up of a person's hand gently holding a baby's hand, showcasing a soft bond. The adult hand is adorned with a ring, while the baby is wearing a light sweater.
    A happy family of three outdoors, with parents embracing each other and holding a laughing baby in a sunny park setting.
    A woman holds a baby while standing by the waterfront, with a city skyline in the background on a hazy day.

    Why I Love Chicago skyline newborn photography

    Additionally, a downtown session is very iconic. For example, the lakefront offers a clean look. Therefore, it is a popular choice for families. Instead of a studio, we chose the outdoors. Overall, the session was a big success. If you want Chicago skyline newborn photography, the lake is the best spot.

    Not to mention parking getting here was not that difficult, I love north ave beach and the multiple ways I can use this location for my clients. The skyline here is the best part of this place. It’s so fun to incorporate movement and beauty from it to my clients gallery.

    In conclusion, I enjoy these city sessions. Whether it is sunny or cloudy, Chicago is beautiful. However, the connection between the family is what matters most. So, I am glad we captured these memories. Lastly, thank you for looking at Sam’s photos. If you need a session, please reach out. Thank you for supporting my work

    dad holding baby Chicago skyline newborn photography
    Chicago skyline newborn photography
    Chicago skyline newborn photography
    mom and baby Chicago skyline newborn photography
    baby toes Chicago skyline newborn photography
  • West Town Family photographer session | The Amador family

    West Town Family photographer session | The Amador family

    Oh my heart. This sweet baby girl is basically the poster child for a happy baby. If I had a penny for every smile and coo she blessed me with during our session together, I would be a very wealthy woman. She is just so loved. This session for a West Town family photographer was truly a highlight of my summer because of the pure joy this family radiates.

    As a West Town family photographer, heading to this neighborhood for an urban session is always a fun experience. Plus, I got to indulge and shop around this amazing Chicago area. This neighborhood has such a unique energy that perfectly complements a documentary-style session.

    A black and white photograph of a family portrait featuring a woman holding a toddler and a man looking at them, set against a brick wall background. West Town Family photographer
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    The Beauty of West Town Family Photography

    Walking through the streets, I was immediately drawn to the local art. Because the famous mural wall belongs to West Town Bakery, we had the perfect colorful backdrop for our morning. Their pastries are just as beautiful as their art, making it a must-stop spot for any family wandering the neighborhood. This family in front of those textures was just the cherry on top.

    Documenting families in their element is what I love most. Whether we are exploring city murals or capturing an at-home newborn lifestyle session, the goal is always the same: to create a visual legacy. While I often work as a River Forest family photographer, the vibrant streets of West Town offer a different kind of magic.

    A joyful baby girl with a bow headband is being held by a smiling man, while a woman looks on happily. The background features a textured red brick wall. West Town Family photographer

    Every family has a unique rhythm, and my job is to find it. By leaning into the unscripted moments, we create images that feel like a true reflection of your life. If you want to learn more about how I work, you can explore The Experience to see my philosophy on unposed storytelling. I hope you enjoy this session as much as I enjoyed capturing it!

    A woman with long hair gently holds a baby with a blue headband against a brick wall, while the baby waves one hand.
    A happy baby girl with a bow headband is being held by her parents, who are smiling at her. The scene is set against a warm, red brick wall.
    A woman holds a smiling baby in her arms against a brick wall background, with the baby wearing a light blue headband and a patterned outfit. West Town Family photographer
    A person holding a smiling baby outdoors in front of a red brick wall with windows. West Town Family photographer
    A family photo featuring a father holding a smiling baby girl outdoors, with a mother affectionately looking at both. The scene captures warmth and joy against a backdrop of a sunny street. West Town Family photographer
    A family sitting on the steps of a building, with a mother holding a baby and a father smiling beside them. The baby is wearing a bow on her head and looking at the camera. West Town Family photographer
    A cute baby girl with a floral headband sitting on wooden steps, looking thoughtfully off to the side. West Town Family photographer
    A family portrait featuring a father holding a baby girl and a mother smiling at them, set in a tree-lined neighborhood with brick buildings. West Town Family photographer
    A baby sitting on a concrete surface near a green bush, wearing a floral romper and a headband, looking up curiously.
    Family portrait of a father holding a baby while the mother looks on lovingly in a tree-lined, urban setting. West Town Family photographer
    A family walking hand in hand along a street with a colorful floral mural in the background. A man and woman are smiling as they walk with a baby held by the woman. West Town Family photographer
    A family portrait featuring a couple sharing a kiss while holding their baby girl. The background is a vibrant floral mural. West Town Family photographer
    A family of three, including a couple and their baby, stand together in front of a vibrant floral mural featuring sunflowers and other colorful flowers. West Town Family photographer
    A couple embraces in front of a colorful flower mural, smiling at each other with affection.
    A joyful couple embracing in front of a colorful floral mural, with the woman laughing and looking at the man, who is playfully holding her from behind.
    A couple joyfully embracing in front of a vibrant mural featuring sunflowers and pink flowers.

    This session made me so happy to be a Chicago Family photographer

  • Project 5for5 days

    More failures to add

    So here I am. Last month I attempted a P/30 and I will humbly say that it was not a success.  My heart just was not into it. The images I took were not my best, it was like a chore to me. It was dreadful. Maybe I’m just not a “project ” person. I just have to accept it and move on. I’m at a point in my life where realizations are so incredibly welcomed. I have stopped trying to be someone I’m not, and this is another step in the right direction. Will I try again? Who knows , maybe. It was a little disappointing  to not pull through for myself for a month alone. But alas, some friends on facebook. tagged me to join along this week and share 5 for 5 days, easy enough right? Well here we go.. wish me luck.

    5 FOR 5… DAY UNO WHIMSYHEARTPHOTOGRAPHYCHICAGO

  • Chicago Documentary & Storytelling Photographer-JRP headshots

    H E A D S H O T S

    I had so much fun exchanging Head shots with this beautiful lady. She is the owner of Jessica Rassmusen Photography. Jessica was amazing! It was,I believe an awkward experience for the both of us. I still had so much fun. She is one of those wild spirits, who flows freely and goes where her heart dictates. At least that is what I got from speaking to her. She is currently in Illlinois, but close to moving her whole family of four to the beautiful island of Puerto Rico. I am so excited for her, and I can’t wait to read and see where the journey takes her. Can you believe she has two kiddos. Nope, I can’t either.
    whimsy heart photography l chicago whimsyheartphotography l chicagowhimsyheartphotography l chicagowhimsyheartphotography l chicagowhimsyheartphototgraphy l chicagowhimsyheartphotography l chicago2015-09-04_0008whimsyheartphotography l chicagowhiimsyheartphotography l chicago

  • Chicago documentary and storytelling photography-Pond mini sessions

    POND MINI SESSION

    I photographed this sweet family back almost two years ago. I am so glad, Gina called last minute for my availability. It is really, truly an honor to see the children of your clients grow up before your eyes. I met sweet baby P and her brother at her newborn session. I can say he is still as doting as he was , when he was swooning over that new bundle of joy.
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  • Chicago family Documentary & storytelling Photography – Short stories- change and turning 4

    Change is scary. Then again, change is good. In the past recent months, we have moved to a new place and we are still getting used to it. Although we do miss our old neighborhood,Our new one is jammed packed with tiny families like ours. Soon Lucas will begin Prek, which will bring more change onto our routines. I want to add that I am a self- proclaimed change queen. I attended over 10 schools in my lifetime. Considering most kids go to 4 or 5 schools. That a whole bunch of new.

    This past month Lucas also turned 4. He is considered a child now (sadly to my mama heart) . I’m not sure who made these guidelines up ; Baby, toddler, child, preteen…ect. They are kinda silly, and of course he is still my baby, but there is no denying he is loosing all of the things that made him my once chubby baby. For one, He has really embraced his role of big brother.He adores that girl to death.  He is taller and much faster, super strong. Also that brain is just insanely filled with his own ideas. He has opinions and judgments on activities. Its just a crazy explosion of learning. I know he is resilient, and he will embrace his new environment like a champ.

    I can’t say kids are immune to change, but I do know that they are probably better at adjusting than us adults.
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  • Chicago family documentary and storytelling photography- short -stories

    H e l l o

    I recently joined the team for @thealbumsco on instagram. My first post was about daydreaming. I really got flashbacks of my daydreams, and what I have done so far to accomplish them. I said that ” I used to daydream about the life I am currently living” and it was so true. I am blissfully happy. God could not have blessed me with a better life. I am so thankful. While our future is a work in progress, and we have bills to pay and children to raise, I have the ability to look at my life and say that I love it. I get to stay home with my kiddos, and go on adventures daily if I wanted to. We are not rich, nor do I think we will ever be, but We are doing well and that’s all I could ever ask for. I am surrounded with the most amazing people. I have also learn to let go of those people that I have outgrown. I think that is one of the tougher challenges of growing up, learning to let go. Even with loosing some people, my community is growing, and I feel a sense of belonging, specially within the photography community.

    Anyway, this life is good. This life is the one I wished for, and I am teaching my children to enjoy it. To savor the moments and not care about acquiring things. To see this borrowed time as an opportunity to do something special. I have finaly understood, “You reap what you sow”.
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  • Siblings //Chicago documentary photography

    Two of  you. 

    Just another day in June.Out and about with these two.  Playing together will come later, I’m assuming. For now they both fight over that one object that a minute ago no one thought about and now is a gold trophy. I can’t wait to see the friendship build. Lucas is already a crazy protector. Zoe, only cares about copying everything he does. Oh, I so believe in my heart Lucas was born to be a big brother. I am happy for this crazy girl that we brought into his life. 

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  • Chicago Documentary & Storytelling Photography / Short Stories / Cloudy day

    ( I have been trying to think of a way to blog more personal stuff. It is honestly daunting with out any inspiration. That’s why I created the Short Stories series for me. As a way to capture the everyday and have it make sense in my brain and in my blog. Hopefully I can stick to blogging more and sharing the beauty of the everyday this way.)

    C l o u d y  D a y //

    A year ago I wouldn’t have even thought of bringing my camera out on a cloudy day . I was so in-love with sunset, backlit images, that it was clouding my vision (Pun intended)a bit. I joined the Erin Hensley 365 group and all the different light possibilities she explores, have quite frankly taken me by surprise. I have learned so much!, and feel so much more inspired than ever before. Also the group for Goodbye Posing Guide has been incredible. Everyday seeing inspiration of amazing artist who are also learning and on a journey of their own is enough to get me going for my  camera daily. I am so pumped to seek out all that I love about photography and share it here with you all.

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