CHICAGO WEDDING & FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

Tag: home birth photographer

  • Home Birth Photographer Chicago: Home Birth is Here to Stay

    Home Birth Photographer Chicago: Home Birth is Here to Stay

    Whenever I tell someone I am a home birth photographer in Chicago, they often think I mean “birds.” Perhaps it is a little bit of my accent, or the fact that “th” endings can be hard! Regardless, we usually have a little awkward exchange where I explain that I mean births—humans giving birth.

    Their faces always show a mix of awe, curiosity, and concern. This is especially true after I mention home birth. However, it fills me with great joy to do such a unique job. I love that people hire me to create art out of their most intimate moments. In fact, being a trusted part of a team that welcomes a little one is a true honor.

    Why You Should Hire a Home Birth Photographer in Chicago

    Birth is raw and real. It is a beautiful mix of power and vulnerability. Actually, it is buckets full of vulnerability! I was lucky enough to be hired for this beautiful family’s second home birth. Hannah is an incredible mama and human. Consequently, I was so glad to witness their strength together again.

    This second birth was a bit different, and I even managed to get a little nap in! Because birth is so unpredictable, I find that I live for that excitement. I always cry the minute the baby arrives. When you see the relief on a mom’s face, the world stops for a minute. Ultimately, something marvelous just occurred. It is pure magic.

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    Home birth photographer Chicago mom getting in bed to rest

    Home Birth Photography is Here to Stay

    As a home birth photographer in Chicago, I see firsthand how comfortable families are in their own space. This comfort allows for a level of intimacy that is hard to capture elsewhere. Many families worry about the chaos of birth, but my goal is to find the quiet, steady rhythm within it.

    Photography is the best way to have something tangible to hold. Memories of birth can be a blur, but a photograph stays with you forever. In addition, these images become your family’s first heirloom. For anyone looking for a home birth photographer in Chicago, I would be honored to document your unique story and preserve these fleeting moments for generations to come.

    A pregnant person in a semi-nude posture leaning over a bed covered with sheets, supported by another person behind them in a dimly lit room. home birth photographer chicago
    A cozy bedroom scene featuring a bed with colorful pillows and a blue blanket. Soft lighting from string lights illuminates the room, with a piece of art on the wall depicting an abstract figure. home birth photographer chicago
    A couple peacefully sleeping in bed, wrapped in a blanket, with soft lighting from fairy lights and decorative pillows in the background. home birth photographer chicago
    Black and white image of two people lying closely together in bed, wrapped in a blanket and appearing relaxed in a cozy setting. home birth photographer chicago

    A couple embracing in a softly lit room, captured from a distance. The scene conveys warmth and intimacy, with cozy home decor visible. home birth photographer chicago
    A woman sitting in a birthing pool in a dimly lit room, with a person partially visible in a 'Ride-Rail' shirt standing nearby. The room has a bed and soft lighting decorations. home birth photographer chicago
    A cozy bedroom with string lights adorning the walls, a bed with colorful pillows, and a trash bin in the foreground.
    A pregnant woman in a birthing pool receiving support during labor, set in a cozy indoor environment.
    A close-up view of a person's back showcasing colorful tattoos, including flowers and a butterfly, with a softly blurred figure in the background. home birth photographer chicago
    A couple standing in a bathroom with a mirror; one person is wrapped in a blue towel, while the other is gently touching their back. home birth photographer chicago
    A pregnant woman in labor is being comforted by her partner while a midwife assists in a cozy bedroom setting.
    A person lying on a bed, covering their face with their hands, appearing distressed or overwhelmed. Soft, natural light filters through the room, highlighting colorful pillows.
    A woman standing in a doorway, smiling, wearing a plaid shirt in a softly lit room.
    A close-up image of two people embracing, with one person resting their head on the other's shoulder. The shirt of the person being hugged features logos of different beverages.
    A silhouette of a pregnant person standing in a doorway, partially visible, with a bathroom in the background.
    A man and woman are engaged in a task in a bright kitchen, with the woman leaning over a sink and the man standing behind her.
    A couple shares an intimate moment, embracing and gazing at each other in a softly lit bathroom.
    A woman in a dimly lit room appears to be in labor, showing signs of discomfort, while a supportive partner stands nearby, visibly concerned.
    A woman stands in a bright bathroom, holding her head in her hand, with natural light streaming in from a window.
    A man standing in a narrow hallway, with arms crossed and eyes closed, illuminated by soft natural light from a nearby window, captured in black and white.
    A woman in a birthing pool, leaning forward with her elbows on the edge, while a partner holds her hands, providing support. The background includes a bed with pillows and a crib.
    A pregnant person helping a child navigate stairs in a home setting, depicted in black and white.
    Black and white photo of two pairs of bare feet stepping over a broom handle on a wooden floor, with a textured rug in the foreground.
    A woman holds her newborn baby wrapped in a towel, surrounded by supportive individuals during a home birth in a birthing pool, captured in black and white.
    a baby being born in water during a home birth in chicago serene underwater scene.
    A couple in a birthing pool, with the woman holding a newborn wrapped in a towel, both looking emotional. The setting is intimate and private, with minimal furnishings visible in the background.
    A black and white image of a shirtless man gently holding a newborn baby in his arms, with a softly blurred background showing a cozy interior.
    A mother gently cradles her newborn baby wrapped in a red blanket, both lying on a bed with striped pillows.
    Intimate moment of a mother and newborn, showcasing skin-to-skin contact in a cozy setting.
  • Newborn Photographer Aurora IL

    Newborn Photographer Aurora IL

    Lifestyle Newborn Photography in Aurora, IL

    The newborn session of a beautiful baby boy in Aurora, IL, was truly special. As a newborn photographer in Aurora, IL, I get to witness families grow, but I cannot believe the Lundes are now a family of seven! Just two weeks after visiting this stunning home to welcome Finnian for his birth, I returned to capture the family a little more relaxed and settled into a routine.

    A cozy room with children; one toddler is lying in a crib, hiding under a blanket, while three others explore around a dresser in the background.
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    Well, a “sorta” routine. I know the Lundes are very intentional, slowly paced people. While newborn sessions can be hectic—and even a little wild—we always manage to capture the beauty of it all. These boys are so lovely and always eager to show me their personalities. We’ve worked together enough now that I think they trust me to just “be.” They know I’m there to capture them as they are, without pushing for more than they can do. I always strive to be patient, letting moments unfold and staying ready to roll with the beauty of childhood.

    Two children interacting indoors; one child holds a camera while the other observes. A third child is seen in the background, engaged in another activity.

    What to Expect from an Aurora IL Newborn Photographer

    Many parents ask what a session with a newborn photographer in Aurora, IL looks like when there are older siblings involved. My approach is always documentary-style. Instead of stiff poses, we focus on the connection. Whether it’s the boys peering into the crib or Kayla nursing quietly, these are the moments that define your “new normal.”

    But back to this sweet little baby! How absolutely gorgeous does Kayla look? She was radiant when I arrived. Our lives are both so busy, and though we couldn’t be more different, we’ve always been able to flourish in friendship. She and Patrick are doing a phenomenal job raising kind-hearted, smart, and inquisitive boys.

    Lifestyle portrait of a mother nursing her newborn baby in a sunlit bedroom, captured by an Aurora IL photographer.
    Two young children with blonde hair, one smiling and the other with a serious expression, close-up portrait. Auroral IL lifestyle session
    Baby boy Finnian sleeping in a wooden crib during an Aurora IL newborn photography session.
    Close up of a newborn baby's tiny feet resting on a white knitted blanket
    A black and white photo of an infant sleeping in a crib, with a patterned blanket and soft toys. The image captures the baby's hand and the details of the bedding.
    A newborn baby sleeping peacefully on a patterned blanket, with one hand resting under their chin.
    A black and white image of a sleeping baby, swaddled, lying on a patterned surface in a crib.
    A close-up of a wrapped newborn's foot on a patterned blanket.
    A newborn baby being gently touched by hands in a crib, with a floral patterned sheet.
    A black and white image of three children leaning over a crib, looking at a swaddled baby. One child is gently touching the baby's hand while another observes intently. A parent is seen in the background, adding to the family atmosphere.
    Four children gathered around a crib in a well-decorated nursery, with soft lighting and a cozy bed in the foreground.
    A warm, familial scene featuring a cozy nursery with four children gathered around a crib, interacting with a sleeping baby. Soft lighting and neutral tones create an inviting atmosphere.
    A black and white image of four children peering into a crib in a cozy nursery. The room features a bed in the foreground with a quilt and pillows, a clothes rack with hanging garments, and decor on a shelf.
    A father gently holds his swaddled baby above a crib in a softly lit nursery. Newborn Photographer Aurora IL
    A father gently holding and kissing his newborn baby in a cozy setting. The baby's face is close to the father's chin, showcasing a tender moment between them. Newborn Photographer Aurora IL
    A mother and father gently holding their newborn baby in a loving embrace, with soft expressions on their faces, set against a simple background.
    A mother holding her baby while smiling at her family in a cozy room. Two children are sitting on the bed, engaged with each other, while a man is partially visible in the foreground.
    reflection of mom in mirror Newborn photographer Aurora IL family of 7.
    A mother tenderly holds her newborn baby in a softly lit room, surrounded by family. In the background, a child with curly hair smiles playfully while lying on a bed.
    A woman lovingly cradles a baby in her arms, gazing at each other with affection in a softly lit bedroom setting.
    baby from birds eye view Newborn photographer Aurora IL family of 7.
    A family of six, including four children and one newborn, lying together on a bed, with limbs intertwined and playful interactions among them.
    Five brothers sitting together on a bed, looking curiously at their new baby brother in Aurora, IL.
    A sleeping newborn swaddled in a light blanket, lying on a bed next to a young child and an adult's arm. The young child is playing and gesturing while the adult is resting.
    lifestyle newborn photographer Newborn photographer Aurora IL family of 7
    mother holding her newborn boy surrounded by 4 other sons Newborn photographer Aurora IL family of 7.

    Capturing the Beauty of a Large Family

    Little Finnian, who looks like a perfect combination of Owen and Griffin, was the sweetest little thing. I think he’s going to add a bit of calmness to the bunch. But we’ll see—chaos is always acceptable, especially when it’s in front of my lens! If you are looking for a Chicago newborn photographer in Aurora, IL who embraces the “beautiful chaos” of a large family, I would love to tell your story.

  • Oak Park Birth Photography | A Powerful Home Birth Story

    Oak Park Birth Photography | A Powerful Home Birth Story

    Almost the Same Birthday: An Oak Park Birth Story

    I am in awe of this incredible mama. She showed such grace and strength during this session for Oak Park birth photography. This sweet baby decided to make her appearance while I was away in Denver. On my last day of vacation, mama texted me that her water had broken. It was 10 pm, and I had a 5 am flight back to Chicago. I felt so excited for her but nervous that I would not make it in time.

    A close-up view of two individuals standing on a staircase, with a focus on their bare feet and legs. A safety gate is visible at the top of the stairs. Oak Park Birth Photography
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    The Reality of Oak Park Birth Photography

    Fortunately, things slowed down and I made it home. I had woken up at 3 am to make my flight and hadn’t slept at all due to the chaos of traveling. Around 7 pm, I headed over to join the birth team. I watched as she worked through her surges.

    During the night, her amazing team noticed a change. The head midwife joined the birth and assessed the situation. They determined the baby was facing the incorrect way. As a “fly on the wall” photographer, I don’t ask questions, so the details are a bit fuzzy, but I remember hearing the words “face presentation.”

    A couple in a bathroom setting, with one person leaning over a sink while the other provides support from behind. Oak Park Birth Photography

    Strength Through a Changing Birth Story

    Her doula tried several incredible ways to change the presentation manually. Eventually, the team made the call to head to the hospital for a C-section. You could feel the real disappointment and sadness for this mama. She had worked so incredibly hard, but the reality had changed.

    This was my first C-section experience. We drove towards West suburban Hospital.While I wish I could have captured the baby’s arrival, I still saw those first moments as she became a mama for the second time. What an honor to be part of this story. This is why I love Oak Park birth photography. It is all magical. C-section mamas, your story matters. As a Chicago Birth Photographer it is my opinion that your birth is just as beautiful.as she became the mama she was meant to be for a second time.

    A couple embracing tenderly in a bathroom, with soft lighting reflecting off the mirrors. Oak Park Birth Photography
    A person in a black bra is seen from behind in a bathroom, reaching towards a sink while partially visible in a mirror. Oak Park Birth Photography
    A kitchen scene featuring two people, one washing dishes at the sink and the other standing nearby, with glimpses of a bright hallway and decorated shelves in the foreground. Oak Park Birth Photography
    A pregnant person sitting in a bathtub, gently holding their belly with both hands. Oak Park Birth Photography
    A pregnant woman relaxing in a bathtub, eyes closed, with one hand on her belly and another holding a bottle of water, while a person nearby assists her. Oak Park Birth Photography
    A woman in a bathing suit relaxing in a bathtub, with her eyes closed, while holding hands with another husband Oak Park Birth Photography
    A pregnant woman in a bathtub during labor, showing expressions of pain and concentration. A partner is present, providing support.
    A close-up shot of a person's arm and hand resting on another person's shoulder while sitting in a bathtub.
    A woman in a dark tank top is leaning over a wooden dresser, looking into a mirror. The room is softly lit and has a bed and various personal items scattered on the dresser. Oak Park Birth Photography
    Sign displaying the name 'Athalee Rae Lauber' and '38 Weeks' on a wall next to a clock. Oak Park Birth Photography
    Two women engaged in conversation in front of a mirror in a bedroom, surrounded by personal items and soft lighting. Oak Park Birth Photography
    A couple embracing in a cozy indoor setting, with one partner kissing the top of the other's head. Oak Park Birth Photography
    A woman receiving a supportive embrace and massage while two others observe in a cozy bedroom setting, reflecting a moment of relaxation and care. Oak Park Birth Photography
    A couple embraces tenderly, with the woman resting her head back against the man's chest while he holds her from behind. They are in a cozy indoor setting, conveying intimacy and connection.
    A group of individuals supporting a woman during childbirth in a cozy, dimly lit room.
    A woman in labor is surrounded by her support team, including a partner and another person, in a dimly lit room. The woman appears to be experiencing contractions while holding onto the bed rail for support.
    A woman in labor is surrounded by support people in a dimly lit room. She is experiencing contractions while a partner assists her, and another person prepares nearby. The atmosphere conveys a sense of intimacy and support during childbirth.
    A laboring woman is supported by two individuals while a midwife monitors her progress in a cozy, softly lit room.
    A woman in labor is supported by a man in a dimly lit bedroom, while a third person assists during the birthing process.
    A black and white image depicting a woman in emotional distress being comforted by another person, surrounded by two other individuals. The scene conveys a sense of support and care.
    A black and white photo showing a group of people in a bedroom, with one person assisting another who is on a bed, suggesting a moment of intimate support.
    A woman in labor is being supported by a partner and a team of caregivers in a dimly lit room, conveying a moment of emotional intensity and support during childbirth.
    A pregnant woman in a hallway, sitting and holding a water bottle, with a partner comforting her, while a child is present nearby.
    A woman in labor is supported by a partner in a dimly lit room, with another person assisting in the background.
    A close-up image of two individuals in a dimly lit bedroom, suggesting an intimate moment, with one person resting their head against the other's shoulder.
    A couple embraces in a cozy bed, showcasing affection and intimacy, with the woman visibly pregnant.
    A small group of individuals engaged in a supportive and intimate setting, assisting one person lying on a bed, with one participant providing physical comfort and others observing during a personal or medical experience.
    A focused birthing scene with a pregnant woman lying on a bed, being supported by two family members, in a warmly lit room.
    A series of images depicting a man and a woman in a dimly lit room, assisting a laboring woman using a technique with a cloth. The woman appears to be in a supported position on a bed, with the man helping her while another individual stands nearby, facilitating the process.
    A pregnant woman standing at the threshold of a doorway, appearing contemplative, with a male figure behind her, set in a dimly lit environment.
    A close-up image of a person lying on a pillow with eyes closed, receiving a gentle touch on the head from another person in a dimly lit environment.
    A woman in labor is being supported by a partner, showcasing an emotional moment during childbirth.
    A view through an open door into a dimly lit room, showing a woman in a black dress interacting with another person off-screen, with dark curtains and a ceiling fan visible.
    A group of women talking and interacting in a cozy living room setting, with soft lighting and a view of a kitchen in the background. Some women are gathered around a baby stroller, while others are engaged in conversation.
    A heartfelt embrace between two people at a doorway, with a warm, emotional atmosphere. The scene captures a moment of connection, featuring homes and parked cars in the background.
    A woman in a hospital gown is surrounded by support people in a labor and delivery room, focusing on her while she is in a labor position near the hospital bed.
    A woman in a hospital gown is being assisted by another woman as a man prepares to wear protective clothing in a hospital setting.
    A close-up of two women embracing, one appears emotional with tears in her eyes, while the other comforts her. The image is in black and white, capturing an intimate moment.
    A hospital corridor with healthcare professionals wearing scrubs, surgical caps, and masks. Two patients in hospital gowns are preparing for a medical procedure, while staff members are busy with tasks in the background.
    A newborn baby in a striped hat is cradled in the arms of a woman, who appears to be the mother. They are under a light blue blanket, with the mother's face close to the baby's, showing a tender moment.
    A newborn baby is being examined by medical professionals in a surgical setting, with doctors wearing scrubs and gloves, and the baby appearing to cry. Oak Park Birth Photography
    A nursing mother in a hospital bed, holding her newborn baby against her chest. She is smiling and appears to be in a relaxed state, with medical equipment visible in the background. Oak Park Birth Photography
    A newborn baby breastfeeding, close-up on the mother's chest, showing tender skin-to-skin contact in a hospital setting. Oak Park Birth Photography
    A patient lying in a hospital bed surrounded by concerned family members in a dimly lit room. Oak Park Birth Photography

    Looking for more inspiration? View my full guide as an Oak Park family photographer to see my favorite local locations and styling tips.