schaumburg family photographer Archives - CHICAGO WEDDING & FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

The Loop Newborn Session | Chicago In-Home Photography

A The Loop newborn session should capture the beautiful energy of real life in the heart of the city. Recently, I visited a wonderful family in their downtown high-rise to document their newest addition. Because we were in their natural environment, every moment of this The Loop newborn session felt honest, relaxed, and uniquely Chicago

Capturing a The Loop Newborn Session

I love sessions where the house holds memories and love lingers in every corner. During this Chicago in-home newborn session, we embraced blankets on the floor and giggles between poses. These unscripted moments are the ones families cherish most. Consequently, the images feel like a true reflection of their daily lives.

Navigating Toddlers and Pets

Big brother was a bit unsure about the camera at first. However, this is totally normal for toddlers! We used plenty of patience and a few snack breaks to find our groove. Eventually, he showed us his sweet personality. He gave gentle hugs to the baby and played with the puppy. Furthermore, including pets adds a heartwarming layer to the family story.

Benefits of a The Loop Newborn Session

Many parents worry about having a perfect house before a shoot. Yet, you do not need a showroom to have a beautiful Chicago in-home newborn session. Your connection and laughter are the most important parts. Because I follow your family’s natural rhythm, the process remains stress-free. In addition, everything you need is already right there at your fingertips.

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Are you looking for a relaxed way to document your new baby? I would love to help you tell your story. Whether you want a single session or a full storytelling bundle, we can create something timeless. Let’s capture these fleeting moments in the place you love most.

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Close-up of a small hand resting on a textured surface, with soft lighting and a focus on delicate fingers.

A smiling young boy sitting on a lap, playfully reaching for his feet while wearing a green long-sleeve shirt. The Loop Newborn Session

A cute baby wearing a light gray outfit and a blue headband, lying on a textured blanket inside a crib, gazing upwards. The Loop Newborn Session

A candid black and white photo of a family sitting on a couch, with a father holding a baby in one arm and a playful child hanging upside down from his other leg. The Loop Newborn Session

Mother cradling newborn in natural light bedroom, Chicago lifestyle photography. n-home newborn photography Chicago IL

A black dog with a floral bandana sits on a bed, while a couple, a woman holding a baby and a man nearby, relax in the background. The Loop Newborn Session

A mother relaxing on a bed while holding a newborn, with a toddler playfully being lifted in the air, in a cozy indoor setting with large windows. The Loop Newborn Session

A close-up of a caregiver's hand holding a sleeping baby close to a window, with focus on the baby's delicate hand.

Mother cradling newborn in natural light bedroom, Chicago lifestyle photography. In-home newborn photography Chicago IL

family by the window holding big brother. In-home newborn photography Chicago IL

A family of four sits on a bed, sharing a loving moment. The parents are kissing, while their two children are seated nearby, one holding a toy. A dog lies on the bed, adding to the cozy family scene.

A young child gently reaching into a bassinet to touch a sleeping baby, with a bedside lamp and plant in the background.

June 20, 2025

Itasca Family Photographers | Candid Outdoor Portraits

Why I Love Being One of the Many Itasca Family Photographers

As an Itasca family photographers know what a beautiful this chicago suburb is. I am always looking for locations with beautiful scenery. In addition, I want a place where kids can truly be themselves. Sometimes my photo shoots are as simple as a walk to the park. During that time, we can easily capture your family’s essence.

A Recent Itasca Family Session

Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing a family of five in Itasca, Illinois. The weather was absolutely perfect. Specifically, it was sunny and warm but not too hot. This family included two parents, three young children, and a beautiful golden retriever. First, we spent the afternoon walking around the park. Next, the kids had a blast playing on the playground. Overall, we simply enjoyed being outdoors.

Capturing the Golden Hour

Early morning light really gives me the best images. This is because we are never in a rush to beat the sunset. Working with three preteens was so much fun. Furthermore, they were all full of unique personalities.

Why Candid Moments Matter

As a photographer, I love capturing candid moments like these. Indeed, they show the true essence of a family. You can see their love, their connection, and their joy. For example, these photos show the children laughing and playing. Meanwhile, the parents watch over them with pride while the dog runs around. If you are looking for Itasca family photographers who capture real life, I would love to help.

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Natural family photography in Itasca IL with a golden retriever

mom and dad in the front porch in their Itasca home

mom and son playing football during their morning itasca IL session

dad and daughter petting puppy in itasca il

daughter details shot petting pup itasca il

Three preteens laughing during an Itasca family photography session

The whole family walking towards the park in itasca il

parents and children walking through a sun-drenched park in Itasca

Candid lifestyle family portraits taken in Itasca Illinois

family walking towards the park, playing with a basketball

A woman in a yellow dress and two children playing with a ball in front of a house. The children are running, and a car is parked nearby. The yard has seasonal decorations.

big kiss from parents at the itasca park

candid and authentic photographs in itasca il

joyful lifestyle family portraits taken in Itasca Illinois

March 18, 2025

Montrose Beach Maternity Session | The Adri Photo Co.

Gloomy skies. Trees full of leaves. The scent of flowers in the air. As a Montrose Beach Maternity session, I have seen our city in every kind of weather, but there is something truly special about a quiet, overcast morning. I recently met with a beautiful couple expecting their first baby, and the atmosphere was thick with hope and imagination.

The Beauty of a Montrose Beach Maternity session Chicago Session

We sought out the natural beauty of the city for this session. While most clients hope for clear blue skies, any experienced Montrose Beach Maternity session will tell you that a little overcast light is actually a dream. It acts as a giant softbox, creating a fogginess that was the cherry on top for these portraits. Parenthood is about to become a reality for these two, and capturing that transition in such a dreamy setting was magical.

They spent the morning wondering what their baby will look like and who they will become. It’s that beautiful “in-between” stage where everything is about to change.

a future mom and dad at their maternity session Chicago maternity photographer session at a park

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A pregnant woman in a flowing dress stands outdoors, gently cradling her baby bump, surrounded by soft, blurred greenery. Chicago maternity photographer

mom to be looking at dad Chicago maternity photographer session at a park

smiling maternity client holding her belly

maternity image of mom near a beautiful tree

A woman in a flowing turquoise dress stands under a blossoming tree in a foggy landscape, holding a bouquet of flowers.

Close up of baby bump captured by Chicago maternity photographer

mom and dad walking holding hands at their maternity session

couple near tall grass at Chicago maternity photographer session

A couple embraces in a lush outdoor setting, surrounded by flowering trees and greenery. The woman wears a flowing blue dress and looks affectionately at the man, who is dressed in a navy shirt.

A couple sharing a romantic kiss in a grassy field surrounded by colorful trees in a misty landscape.

Close-up of pink flowering branches with a blurred background.

Why Book a Chicago Maternity Photographer?

Maternity sessions are more than just a photoshoot; they are a celebration of a couple’s connection. It is often the “last stop” before bringing home a new piece of wonder. As a Chicago maternity photographer, my goal is to capture the emerging motherhood and the deep connection between partners. This couple was so incredibly in sync, and you can read the pure happiness on their faces in every frame.

Whether we are shooting at Montrose Beach or tucked away in a leafy park, these sessions preserve the anticipation and the “juicy details” of your story before the sleepless nights and newborn snuggles begin. I love being a Chicago maternity photographer because I get to document the very beginning of a family’s newest chapter.

July 2, 2024

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

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

Beverly Newborn Home Photographer | Baby June

The wait is finally over. Life as a Beverly Newborn Home Photographer changed forever when my own little one, June Vinegar, arrived. We are so incredibly in love with her. She has already brought so much joy into our home.

Specifically, I wanted to document these first days in a way that felt authentic. As a Chicago Newborn Photographer, I usually help other families capture these fleeting moments. However, being on the other side of the lens gave me a new perspective. For example, I realized just how much the tiny details matter when it is your own child.

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Baby June by Beverly Newborn Home Photographer.

Planning a Beverly Newborn Home Session

We decided to keep her session very simple. Instead of using heavy props or stiff poses, we focused on natural light in her nursery. In fact, the historic charm of our Beverly home provided the perfect backdrop. Additionally, staying at home meant we could move at June’s pace. Consequently, the entire experience felt relaxed and peaceful.

Moreover, I want to share some tips for other parents considering a lifestyle session. First, don’t worry about having a “perfect” house. Actually, the messy, real moments are often the most beautiful. Secondly, focus on the connection between family members. Therefore, I always suggest wearing comfortable, neutral clothing.

A mother gently holding her newborn baby on a bed, with a serene expression.

A black and white image of a woman and a man lying on a bed, closely interacting with a baby. The woman has braided hair and is gently holding the baby's hand, while the man is looking at the child, contributing to a warm family moment.

A couple lovingly interacts with their newborn baby on a bed, showcasing a moment of tenderness and family connection.

A father holding his newborn baby girl in a Chicago home setting, showing the bond of those first days.

Parents smiling down at Baby June during a natural, unposed home newborn session.

Four children playing on a gray bedspread, with three older kids engaged with a sleeping baby in pink pajamas.

Two children sitting on a bed with white bedding, one child with curly hair and a blue shirt, and the other child smiling in gray attire.

Beverly Newborn Home Photographer capturing the first interaction between Baby June and her siblings on the bed

A young girl sitting on the carpet, joyfully holding a baby in her arms, with sunlight illuminating the scene.

A black and white image of two young children on a bed. The older child is smiling and holding a baby sibling, while another child is lying on the bed, partially out of the frame.

A family sitting together on a bed, with the mother holding a newborn baby. The siblings are gathered around, looking at the baby with expressions of curiosity and joy. The room is well-lit with soft sunlight streaming in.

A family of five, including parents and four children, sitting on the floor in a cozy living room, interacting and playing with a newborn baby.

A close-up view of a family gathered around a newborn baby, with different family members interacting, including a mother holding the baby, and children looking on with expressions of curiosity.

Beverly Newborn Home Photographer capturing a mother and father cradling her infant daughter, June, by a sunlit window.

A young child holding a pink camera and smiling, posing for a photograph indoors.

Beverly Newborn Home Photographer capturing a mother cradling her infant daughter, June, by a sunlit window.

A family of five sitting together on a leather sofa, engaging with each other. The parents are sitting beside their children, with one parent holding a baby, while the children sit close, displaying a sense of warmth and togetherness.

A father holding a sleeping baby in pink pajamas, surrounded by children and a woman on a couch, creating a warm family atmosphere.

A family scene with parents and children sitting together on a couch, interacting with a newborn baby and enjoying each other's company.

A mother sitting on a couch, gently holding her newborn baby, while an older child leans in closely, showing affection.

Beverly Newborn Home Photographer capturing a mother and father holding baby June in their Chicago living room.

A cozy living room scene featuring two children playing on the floor while a couple stands together in the background, holding a child and smiling.

If you are looking for a Beverly Newborn Home Photographer to capture your family’s story, I would love to chat. Ultimately, these photos serve as a permanent heartbeat of your home’s history. In conclusion, thank you to everyone for the love and support during this special time. We are so excited for this new chapter with June.

Ultimately, my favorite part of being a Beverly Newborn Home Photographer is seeing how each family makes a house a home. These walls in Beverly have seen so many milestones, but none quite as sweet as June’s arrival. I am honored to document this history, and I cannot wait to see her grow within these same rooms we photographed today.

February 4, 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

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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

Standing in the light | Chicago and west suburbs photographer

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

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