CHICAGO WEDDING & FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

Tag: Illinois Photographer

  • Extended Family Photographer Chicago | Walter Family Downtown

    Extended Family Photographer Chicago | Walter Family Downtown

    Extended Family Photographer Chicago

    As an extended family photographer in Chicago, the number one thing I always hear from other photographers when I tell them I shot a large group is … dread. It’s no secret that many professionals are not fans of big family sessions. If you’re not careful, the whole session can feel chaotic and unorganized. Big groups can be overwhelming for some, but for me, this one was a pure joy.

    A group of ten people, including adults and a baby, standing together outdoors in a park with skyscrapers in the background. They are engaged in playful interactions, with some smiling and laughing. Extended Family Photographer Chicago

    This whole family was so lovely and full of bright personalities. With only one tiny human and the rest adults, it was an incredibly easy crowd to work with. Being an extended family photographer in Chicago means knowing how to navigate the energy of a large group while ensuring everyone feels seen and comfortable in front of the lens. Being a chicago family photographer means meeting the coolest people because we have one of the coolest cities.

    Book your Family Session
    Instagram
    Tiktok
    Two women smiling together in a sunlit outdoor setting with trees in the background. Extended Family Photographer Chicago
    A black and white photo of four men standing together outdoors, smiling and interacting playfully, surrounded by trees. The image is split into two parts: one side shows the men engaged in conversation, while the other features three of them posing arm in arm. Extended Family Photographer Chicago

    Celebrating Birthdays in Downtown Chicago

    This Indiana family was in town specifically to celebrate Mom’s birthday. I was able to meet them downtown by the fountain to capture all of their beauty. Despite the full sun and the hustle and bustle of being in the middle of downtown, we got to work quickly. I think these images turned out amazing! I was able to capture all of their individual personalities, and seeing how unique each couple was made the session even more special.

    A happy family photo featuring a couple kissing and holding their baby outdoors, surrounded by trees and greenery, capturing a joyful moment.Extended Family Photographer Chicago
    A man holds a baby in a park, surrounded by blossoming trees. Extended Family Photographer Chicago
    A family portrait featuring a man and woman standing together in a grassy area with trees. The man holds a baby girl dressed in an orange outfit, while the woman smiles happily beside them.
    A happy family portrait featuring a father and mother holding their baby girl outdoors under a tree. The father is gently kissing the baby's cheek while the mother smiles joyfully. The image is in black and white.
    A group of ten people standing on a path in a park, smiling and posing for the photo, with tall buildings in the background and greenery surrounding them.
    A couple poses together, smiling and standing close, with a city skyline in the background.
    A couple sharing a kiss in a park with city buildings in the background, surrounded by greenery.
    A couple enjoying a sunny day in a park, smiling and playfully interacting with each other. The woman wears a light blouse and green pants, while the man is dressed in a casual shirt and jeans, with city skyscrapers visible in the background.
    A group of five women and a baby posing together outdoors in a park, smiling and enjoying the sunny day.
    A group of four people posing playfully on a grassy field with a city skyline in the background.
    A group of ten people posing together outdoors in a park, with tall buildings in the background. One person is holding a baby, and everyone is smiling. The image is in black and white.

    Tips for Your Extended Family Session

    If you are looking for an extended family photographer in Chicago, here are a few things to consider for your own large group session:

    • Coordinate, Don’t Match: Notice how this family used a cohesive color palette without wearing identical outfits. This adds depth to the photos.
    • Choose a Meaningful Location: Downtown Chicago offers iconic backdrops like the Buckingham Fountain, which works perfectly for large groups.
    • Embrace the Interaction: The best shots often happen between the poses. I love capturing the laughter and side conversations that happen when a family is all together.

    Photography is about more than just a “everyone look here” moment; it’s about the legacy of a family. Whether you are visiting from out of state like the Walters or you are a local, hiring an extended family photographer in Chicago ensures these milestones are preserved forever.

  • Wrigleyville Family Photographer Schultz Family session

    Wrigleyville Family Photographer Schultz Family session

    As a Wrigleyville family photographer, I have the pleasure of meeting the sweetest families in one of Chicago’s most iconic neighborhoods. Recently, I had the chance to document the Schultz family, and they were truly adorable. Their session reminded me why I love my job so much.

    Specifically, their big sister is still very much a baby at heart, even though she is growing into a “tiny human” body. Toddlers are fascinating because they exist in their own little universe. They walk around like the boss of the household, and rightly so! Because of this unique energy, she reminded me exactly why I love being a Wrigleyville family photographer. I love capturing that “boss” energy before they grow up too fast.

    Schultz family playing together in their living room, captured by a Wrigleyville family photographer.
    BOOK YOUR FAMILY SESSION
    INSTAGRAM
    TIKTOK

    Capturing Beauty in the “Gloomy” Light

    There was so much beauty to capture during our session, even on a typically gloomy Chicago day. Many parents worry about the weather or a lack of sun in their apartment. However, as a professional Wrigleyville family photographer, I know that overcast skies actually provide the softest, most flattering light for portraits. We were able to document the quiet, authentic moments of their daily life without any harsh shadows.

    A toddler girl showing her "boss" personality during a session with a Wrigleyville family photographer.
    Candid moment of the Schultz family on a gloomy Chicago day by a Wrigleyville family photographer.
    the Schultz family walking through the tall prairie grass at Montrose Bird Point Sanctuary, captured by a Wrigleyville family photographer.
    A toddler girl exploring the nature trails at Montrose Bird Point Sanctuary on a misty day with a Wrigleyville family photographer.
    A black and white photo of a smiling father holding his upside-down daughter, while a woman stands in the background, smiling.
    A young child with short blond hair gazes curiously while leaning over a wooden fence in a natural outdoor setting.
    A family gathering in a grassy area, featuring a mother and father with three young children, one of whom is being held and another interacting in the foreground. The setting includes trees and a wooden fence, with a background of flowers.
    A young child in a beige dress leans over a sleeping baby wrapped in a floral blanket on a striped blanket in a grassy area.
    A black and white photograph of a couple sitting together on the grass with a young child, surrounded by trees and a wooden fence.
    A joyful moment of a man lifting a baby in the air while a woman watches, set in a grassy field with trees in the background.

    Tips from a Wrigleyville Family Photographer

    If you are worried about your own session being too dark, here are a few tips:

    • Turn off Overhead Lights: These create yellow tones. Natural light from a window is much softer.
    • Stay Near Windows: I often have families sit on the floor or a bed right next to a window to catch that beautiful, indirect glow.
    • Embrace the Mood: Darker, “moodier” days are perfect for cozy, snuggly photos.

    As a Chicago Family photographer watching this family interact was a highlight of my week. I bet big sister is going to do an incredible job as her sibling grows. Booking a local Wrigleyville family photographer allows you to preserve these memories right where they happen. In conclusion, I am so grateful the Schultz family invited me in to tell their story.

  • Hanover Park Maternity Photography | The Anderson Family

    Hanover Park Maternity Photography | The Anderson Family

    a collage of images of family sitting in grass

    The Anderson Family: A Golden Hour Maternity Session


    As an expert in Hanover Park maternity photography, I love documenting families as they grow. This lovely family is currently getting ready for their third baby. Furthermore, I will be there to capture their upcoming home birth. They are planning an intimate arrival. I cannot wait for the call that the baby is finally on their way.

    Book your Maternity Session
    tiktok
    instagram

    Styling for Hanover Park Maternity Photography

    We took a quick trip in the heat to a favorite local spot. Specifically, I want to highlight Sarah’s perfect styling for this session. Although summer heat is tough, she made it look effortless. She looked beautiful in her gown. Consequently, the neutral tones kept the focus on the family connection.

    When choosing outfits for Hanover Park maternity photography, remember that comfort is important. Sarah chose a style that allowed her to move freely. This is very helpful when you have young children in the frame. Additionally, the fabric caught the light beautifully. This added a soft, golden glow to the entire gallery.

    A family sitting in a grassy field, enjoying time together. Two young boys are playing with flowers while their parents, a dad and a pregnant mom, engage happily with them. The scene is filled with greenery, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere.
    A family portrait showing parents and two young children sitting on a blanket in a green field. The mother, showing her pregnancy, is gently holding her belly, while the father leans in close. One child is hugging the mother, and the other is sitting beside them, both smiling.
    A black and white photograph of a family picnic in a meadow, featuring a couple kissing while sitting with their two children, who are engaged with nature. The scene is surrounded by wildflowers and greenery, creating a serene outdoor atmosphere.
    Hanover Park maternity photography session with the Anderson family in a summer field.

    Choosing a Location for Hanover Park Maternity Photography

    The big brothers were such good sports. They walked through the tall grass and greenery. Because this location is diverse, we got many different looks. In addition, the boys are very excited to meet their new sibling. The gender reveal at birth will be worth the wait.

    We spent time playing in the field to get candid smiles. Specifically, I love the moments where the kids just explored nature. These unposed shots often become the family favorites. Furthermore, the golden hour sun provided a perfect backdrop for these memories.

    A pregnant woman in a green dress interacts with her two young boys in a lush, green field. The boys are holding flowers and smiling as they spend time with their mother. Hanover Park Maternity Photography
    A pregnant woman in a grey dress standing in a green field, gently cradling her baby bump. The image is split, with the left side in color and the right side in black and white, showcasing the natural surroundings.
    A couple stands on a dirt path holding hands, with the woman visibly pregnant. Two children run playfully in the background, surrounded by greenery. Hanover Park Maternity Photography
    A couple stands on a path surrounded by trees, holding hands and smiling at each other. The woman has a pregnant belly and wears a blue dress, while the man wears a maroon shirt. A young child in a white outfit runs in the foreground, blurred by motion.
    A family of four interacting joyfully on a gravel pathway surrounded by lush greenery, with parents crouching down to engage with their two young children.
    Two young boys hugging on a wooden boardwalk surrounded by greenery. Hanover Park Maternity Photography
    A couple shares a kiss on a wooden bridge surrounded by greenery, with two children playing in the background.
    A couple joyfully embracing during a maternity photo shoot on a wooden boardwalk, with the woman gently touching her baby bump and smiling at her partner.
    A family enjoying a day outdoors in a green field filled with wildflowers. The father is interacting with his children, and one child is being carried on his shoulders. Hanover Park Maternity Photography
    wide angle of family on a beautiful field Outdoor Hanover Park maternity photography in a summer field.
    Mother in a flowing gown standing in a sun-drenched field in Hanover Park, IL.
    A family of four sits on a blanket in a grassy field, with the mother cradling her pregnant belly. They are engaged in a playful moment, surrounded by tall grass and wildflowers.
    mom entering the water Beautiful sunset Hanover Park maternity photography session.
    profile of mother near the water Beautiful sunset Hanover Park maternity photography session.
    A pregnant woman standing by a calm lake, wearing a dark dress, with long hair and a serene expression.
    A pregnant woman standing by a serene body of water, wearing a flowing dress and looking down lovingly at her belly, with tall grasses in the background.
    A couple embraces in shallow water, with the woman showing a baby bump, while two young children play nearby.
    A pregnant woman stands in shallow water by a lake, smiling as she interacts with a child. A man and another child can be seen nearby, also in the water, surrounded by tall grass and a scenic landscape.
    Mother in a flowing gown standing in a sun-drenched field in Hanover Park, IL.
    Expecting parents embracing during their Hanover Park maternity photography session.
    Andersons family maternity session in Hanover park IL (26)
    Expecting parents embracing during their Hanover Park maternity photography session.

    Why I Love This Hanover Park Location

    As a Chicago maternity photographer, the drive to the west suburbs is worth its 10000%. The big brothers were such good sports as we walked through the tall grass and greenery. Because this location offers such a diverse landscape, we were able to get a variety of looks in a short amount of time. In addition, the boys are very excited to meet their new sibling! I am personally so excited to see the surprise of the gender reveal at birth—it will be well worth the wait.

    Choosing a Hanover Park maternity photography enthusiast means finding someone who can navigate the local elements, from the summer heat to the best lighting. As a result, you get a gallery that feels authentic to your family’s story. Stay tuned for the birth story coming soon!

  • Wilder Mansion Family Photos | Camblin Family

    Wilder Mansion Family Photos | Camblin Family

    “I recently had the pleasure of capturing the Camblin family for their Wilder Mansion family photos in Elmhurst,Illinois. This historic venue provided a perfect backdrop. Specifically, the surrounding Wilder Park gardens looked beautiful for their session. As a Chicago Family photographer, I always enjoy returning to this classic white mansion locations in Elmhurst IL are so unique and beautiful.

    diptych of images with dad with his two daughters Wilder Mansion family photos of the Camblin family Wilder Mansion family photos
    BOOK YOUR FAMILY SESSION
    TIKTOK
    INSTAGRAM

    Planning Your Wilder Mansion Family Photos

    First, this location is a top choice because it offers a mix of architecture and nature. The historic white mansion feels very sophisticated. Meanwhile, the surrounding gardens of Wilder Park provide a soft, organic look.

    For the Camblin family, we focused on the natural light. This ‘golden hour’ light is the best time for outdoor sessions. Therefore, I suggest coordinating your outfits with the venue’s aesthetic. Neutral tones always pop beautifully against the green landscapes. Furthermore, you can view the official Wilder Mansion website to see more of the interior and history.

    A group of six people standing together outdoors under trees, smiling and interacting with each other. The scene captures a casual family or friends gathering in a park with pine needles on the ground. Wilder Mansion family photos

    Why I Love These Wilder Mansion Family Photos

    Whether you want a formal photo or a casual look, this location is a local gem. However, be sure to check the park district calendar first. This ensures we have full access to the grounds. Many families choose this spot because it feels timeless and elegant.

    In addition to the architecture, the seasonal flowers in the gardens are incredible. During the spring and summer, the blooms add a pop of color that makes every portrait stand out. If you prefer a fall look, the mature trees on the property turn vibrant shades of orange and gold.

    mom and dad Family portraits at Wilder Mansion Elmhurst IL
    portrait of mom and dad Family portraits at Wilder Mansion Elmhurst IL
    Family portraits at Wilder Mansion Elmhurst IL
    A woman in a leopard print jacket smiles while standing between two young men, one wearing a white sweater and the other in a beige shirt, all outdoors under trees.
    A smiling woman stands between two young men in a park, all three dressed casually. The scene captures their joyful interaction against a backdrop of trees.
    Three women posing together outdoors under trees, surrounded by pine needles, wearing stylish outfits.
    A group of seven people posing for a photo outdoors under a large tree, surrounded by pine needles. They are smiling and dressed in stylish outfits, with one person holding a small dog.
    A black and white photograph of six people standing close together outdoors, smiling and laughing near a tree.
    A small golden dog sits on the ground among people, with a brown and white fur pattern and a curious expression. The surrounding area is covered in pine needles.
    A couple smiling and enjoying each other's company outside a greenhouse, surrounded by greenery.
    A couple stands together in a lush green area outside, posing affectionately in front of a glass building surrounded by trees and fallen leaves.
    Two young men standing side by side, one smiling against a green backdrop and the other in front of a brick wall with vines.
    A family poses on the steps of a large white building, featuring tall pillars and a double door entrance.
    A group of six people standing under a green archway in a garden, with a mix of casual and formal attire.
    A woman smiling brightly while standing under a green leafy archway, wearing a black blouse with studded details and a flowing olive-green skirt.
    A group of five people posing together in front of a lush green archway adorned with leaves and flowers. They are smiling and dressed in stylish outfits, showcasing a family or friends gathering.

    Planning Your Session

    Whether you want a formal photo or a casual look, this location is a local gem. However, be sure to check the park district calendar first. This ensures we have full access to the grounds.

    Ready to Schedule Your Own Session?

    If you are looking for a beautiful location, I would love to help you. Elmhurst offers stunning backdrops for every family. Furthermore, I can help you find the perfect time for your shoot. Please reach out via my contact page to discuss your vision!”

  • River Forest Woods Session | Earthy Lifestyle Photography

    River Forest Woods Session | Earthy Lifestyle Photography

    River Forest Woods Session: A Little Time in the Sun

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

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

    Capturing Love in the Greenery 

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

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

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

    Documenting Your Visual Legacy 

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

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

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

    connection between mom and dad sitting on the ground
    Santing near tall grass at the Trailside museum outskirts in River fOREST il
    baby sandwich hug with both parents and baby in the middle
    mom and baby girl in trailside museum greenery
    Dad holding baby girl in a sun-filled forest in River Forest Illinois.
    Family sitting through the sun-drenched woods during a River Forest woods session.
  • 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.
    Book your Maternity session
    Instagram
    Tiktok

    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