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

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.

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

Mother cuddling her baby during an Elgin IL newborn photography session

mom sitting on the floor feeding her baby

Candid family laughter during an at-home Elgin IL newborn photography shoot

Artistic view of a family home during an Elgin IL newborn photography session

March 24, 2025

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.

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.

Family posing at the Montrose Bird Point Sanctuary in Chicago

November 16, 2023

Oak Brook Family Photos| Guzman Extended Session

Choosing the right Oak Brook family photos provider is essential when you are coordinating a large group. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing the Guzman family during a beautiful autumn afternoon. First, I noticed how the fall colors perfectly matched their energy. Because I am an experienced Oak Brook family photographer, I knew exactly how to use the outdoor lighting to capture their connection.

Next, I have to be honest about my initial thoughts. Walking into a session filled with Gen Z kids can be intimidating! However, this group was incredibly kind and funny. They made my job as an Oak Brook family photographer feel effortless. In fact, while they might not realize the value of these portraits today, they certainly will in the future. Consequently, these images will become a family treasure.

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Family Portfolio

family walking Oak Brook family photos extended family session

sisters hugging during the extended family photography Oak Brook family photos extended family session

Additionally, capturing an extended family is a real workout. You have to move quickly and keep a mental checklist of every sub-grouping. Fortunately, I love the fast pace. Therefore, I was able to capture candid moments between cousins and grandparents without losing anyone’s attention.

mother and daughters during extended family session

A smiling young woman with long dark hair, standing outdoors with sunlight shining through greenery in the background.

Oak Brook family photographer extended family session

family sitting on blanket during extended family session Oak Brook family photographer extended family session

grandpa and granddaughter during an extended family session Oak Brook family photographer extended family session

daughter during extended family session Oak Brook family photographer extended family session

Three young adults standing together outdoors surrounded by trees and fallen leaves, enjoying a sunny day.

brothers hugging during extended family session Oak Brook family photographer extended family session

hugs during between mom dad and kids during extended family session Oak Brook family photographer extended family session

A group of five boys standing together on a grassy area with trees in the background, smiling at the camera on a sunny day.

A group of eight people standing together outdoors, smiling at the camera in a black and white photograph. The background features trees and grass.

A group of people, including children and adults, walking together in a grassy field. In the foreground, an older couple stands with their backs to the camera, while the group moves toward them.

A joyful family reunion in a park, with members running towards each other and embracing, surrounded by trees and open grassland.

A large group of people joyfully hugging and laughing together outdoors, captured in black and white.

A smiling man in glasses lifts a joyful girl in a yellow dress, who is wearing a red sweater, in a park setting with trees in the background.

Why You Need an Oak Brook Family Photos for Large Groups

Furthermore, there are many benefits to hiring a professional family photographer for your extended family.

Direction: I provide clear instructions so nobody feels awkward. Specifically, I help with posing so everyone looks their best.
Efficiency: I know how to get the “must-have” shots before the kids get restless. Therefore, the session stays fun and lighthearted.
Legacy: These portraits represent your family’s history. Because life moves so fast, having these professional records is a gift to the next generation.

In short, if you are looking for a family photographer who can turn a large gathering into a gallery of art, I am here to help. Specifically, I focus on the authentic bonds that make your family unique. Therefore, let’s plan your session today! I Love grandparents, they are such an important part of our families, being a Chicago Family photographer means I get to capture that connection.

February 10, 2023

Oak Brook Motherhood Photography | Charlie and Her Mama

As a specialist in Oak Brook motherhood photography, I have the privilege of watching families grow over the years. When Char was only three months old, I started babysitting her. At that time, my own daughter was about to be three years old. Consequently, I had these two little ladies at home with me all day. Today, these two are absolutely inseparable. Zoe takes care of her little cousin fiercely. In addition, Char adores her older cousin to pieces.

Indeed, Char and I love each other so much! She calls me often just to ask about my day. Recently, she called to ask what Zoe’s school was called. Specifically, she wanted her mom to buy a house nearby so she could attend. In fact, I sat there listening to her spell out each letter back to me. I hope this never changes. Furthermore, I hope they maintain this beautiful relationship forever.

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kid running Oak Brook motherhood photography session with Charlie and Amber

Connection and Oak Brook Motherhood Photography

I recently had a chance to photograph Char and her mama, Amber. As a result of our time together, I consider her a dear friend. Amber is so beautiful and lovely. We support each other constantly through the ups and downs of life. Moreover, we have been there for each other regardless of not being biological family. I’ve seen Amber blossom under single parenthood. Specifically, it has been such a great example for me in my own journey.

portrait of a girl Oak Brook motherhood photography session with Charlie and Amber

Oak Brook motherhood photography session with Charlie and Amber

mom and daughter oak brook IlOak Brook motherhood photography session with Charlie and Amber

Candid mother and daughter moments by Oak Brook motherhood photography

mom and daughter holding hands walking in Oak Brook Il Candid mother and daughter moments by Oak Brook motherhood photography

A young girl with long brown hair leans playfully against an adult's leg, wearing a cozy white coat. The adult is partly visible, wearing a beige fuzzy jacket.

In conclusion, as a Chicago Family photographer please enjoy these lovely photographs of this amazing mother and daughter duo. When I provide Oak Brook motherhood photography, I am honored to capture these real, raw stories. Finally, I hope these images serve as a reminder that family is built on love. Similarly, I hope they look back at these photos years from now and feel the warmth of this season.

March 24, 2022

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

self portrait of woman in shower in black and white with hand on the glass

self portrait of a naked woman outlined by a plant

a self portrait reflection of a woman reading

self portrait of woman in man's white shirt

self portrait of mom and daughter on the floor reading

February 18, 2022

Self portrait inspiration Chicago | Conversations with the sun

This is the recipe of life

said my mother

as she held me in her arms as I wept

think of those flowers you plant

in the garden each year

they will teach you

that people too

must wilt

fall

root

rise

in order to bloom

r u p i k a u r

Today I have some self portrait inspiration chicago, I bought myself some sunflowers recently. It’s one of my favorite flowers mainly because of the big connection to the sun and how they are so in love with the sun. Yes I know all flowers technically need the sun, ha. But it seems to me like sunflowers are this special letter from the sun to us. They bathe in it, live for the sun. Then in a short amount of time die. They are flowers that make a statement. Even if you buy a bunch of them, every single sunflower has their own personality it seems. They remind me of Mexican Art. They remind me of resilience. I think of fire and power when I see that flower. All other flowers, especially in my favorite group are dainy, soft and beautiful but this flower is different. Yes, you can’t deny its beauty, but the thing I love most of all is their grandeur. It’s a helluva flower.

Self Portrait inspiration in Chicago

I started this self portrait series with the intent to focus on my hair. & how i’ve outgrown the hate for it finally at 31. Perhaps hate is a strong word but I felt it in waves towards my hair. I guess somehow the wilted sunflowers on my coffee table became the star of this series. And I don’t mind that at all. My hair can have it’s shinning moment another time.

I’m currently relearning and unlearning things I couldn’t even imagine I’d be in the middle of at 31. I stupidly had this notion when I was younger exhausted by life that by 30, I would be Ok. And it’s not that I’m not Ok, but it seems that the thing that I greatly tried to avoid. The very thing I didn’t want. I became. & now I am so grateful for that. For the way it made me come to acceptance. Im in the middle of healing, but more importantly in the middle of living.

You see when you aren’t your most authentic self, you keep pushing forward regardless of the pain to the next milestone. You think to yourself, perhaps when I have kids I’ll feel better. Perhaps when I get married it will be Ok. Or when I am wiser and older, I will finally get relief. But relief never comes because it doesn’t really exist. The tension we hold. That’s just how it feels when you’re constantly running. God knows I’m an expert at running, I could run forever if they’d let me. Pushing everything far far away from the front of my mind. I finally had this little rip in my heart, it brought me to my knees and it caused me to make all of the life changes I am currently living. My heart caught up with my mind I guess. So I am buying myself sunflowers because I am learning the difference between being alone and loneliness.

self portrait inspiration chicago

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movement in self portrait inspiration in chicago

loml

June 14, 2021

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

ME AND MY KIDS NEAR THE 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.

May 28, 2021

Wood Dale Family Photographer | Quantifiable Beauty

I heard something recently. It said ” dreaming is a form of planning”. It resonated wildly with my soul. Everything I’ve ever wanted started as a dream. Me with my wild expectations. Most of the time when I would voice my dreams to others it would sound like I lost my damn mind. It always made me feel slightly crazy. But the thing that I have learned is that people lack imagination. Most are living and acting from a place of fear. Without intention. I have always felt this nagging voice for more. Not more in a form of quantifiable things, but more beauty, more aliveness more feelings. It’s probably why I felt pulled towards this medium. I want to record and preserve as many feelings as I can. I guess I’m a junky for that.

I took these self portraits right before heading out and capturing my loves. But I felt the need to make a separate post because I want to encourage others to dream. I never grew up being asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, so perhaps thats how I’ve allowed myself to be whatever the (insert bad word) I want. I am a bunch of things. I’ve dreamt about most. Being a mother was a big one. I dreamt of building up little babies to be the best versions of themselves. I dreamt of a marriage, and even though it wasn’t what I expected I am also not too proud to say perhaps that dream can look different now. What ever you want your life to be in the future, you first have to dream it. You have to stop fitting into the mold of what people expect of you. I hope my children read my words someday and look over what they’ve achieved and know full well that they made that happen. Not for others but for themselves. I’ve had some wild dreams lately. Most of them are absolutely within reach currently they just take some work. Others are timely, others I will have to give up. But I’m excited for it all.

“The surest way to make your dreams come true is to live them.”

― Roy T. Bennett

I’ve been thinking of starting a personal blog to write more about those dreams, I’m still debating. We’ll see what happens and the direction I go in .

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November 23, 2020

WALK ALONG THE RIVER CHICAGO FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER

Much of our adventures go undocumented nowadays since Im so busy with work and life, I have to make it a point to come back to this. My big boy will be 9 already at the end of the month. How on earth is that possible. It feels like just yesterday I was bringing him home. If you’re a new parent and or a new parent to be know that all the parent cliches are one thousand percent true! Every single one of them. I know I have a special chance to document their childhood and I should take more advantage of that. I can’t wait to have more freesom and explore the city of Chicago with these two more if we can’t venture out further. Life is changing but, it is also coming together at the same time.

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June 16, 2020

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.

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.

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.