CHICAGO WEDDING & FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

Tag: storytelling photography

  • Humboldt Park Family Photography | Chicago Fall Session

    Humboldt Park Family Photography | Chicago Fall Session

    A black and white image of a woman playfully interacting with a young girl, who is being held by a man. The sun shines brightly in the background, highlighting the family's joyful moment outdoors. Humboldt Park Family Photography
    book your family session
    tiktok
    instagram

    Humboldt Park Family Photography Session During the Chicago Marathon

    Cozy fall family portrait at Humboldt Park, Chicago surrounded by warm light and foliage.
    Intimate documentary-style family photo in Chicago’s Humboldt Park.
    Humboldt Park family photography portrait in Chicago with parents hugging their daughter during fall

    This Humboldt Park family photography session was such a fun adventure! It just so happened to fall on the same weekend as the Chicago Marathon—oops! I almost forgot, but my amazing clients were total troopers and happily agreed to move our session a bit inland, away from the downtown chaos. Honestly, it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because we discovered the absolute gem that is Humboldt Park.

    Exploring Humboldt Park for Chicago Family Photography

    I had driven past Humboldt Park a few times but never stopped to explore… and wow, what a magical spot! The wide green spaces, the charming paths, and the glowing fall leaves made it feel like we’d stepped into a storybook. Every corner offered something new to capture, and I couldn’t stop smiling as we wandered through the park together. It was one of those sessions where the location feels like it was made just for families like this.

    A joyful family scene in black and white, featuring a man and woman smiling and holding a young girl high up in the air against a clear sky.

    Watching This Family Grow

    I’ve had the joy of photographing this family since the birth of their little one, which makes every session extra special. It’s honestly such a gift to watch these babies grow up right before your eyes! Their kids are playful, joyful, and completely effortless in front of the camera every laugh, hug, and silly face felt like pure magic to capture. Humboldt Park gave us the perfect backdrop for those genuine, everyday moments that tell their story.

    A young child with long hair, looking thoughtfully with fingers in her mouth, surrounded by a softly blurred outdoor background.
    A couple stands close together, sharing a kiss in a shaded park, while a child playfully interacts nearby among fallen leaves.
    A family of three, a man and a woman, engage with a young girl who is sitting between them in front of blooming flowers. The man is smiling while the woman gently kisses the girl, who has a curious expression.

    A Perfect October Morning

    And let’s talk about the weather—it was dreamy! Just a little warm for October, with soft sunlight filtering through the trees, casting that golden, glow-everything light photographers secretly love. The kids ran, laughed, and explored while I clicked away, capturing those candid, heartwarming moments that families treasure forever. Mornings like this remind me why I adore lifestyle and documentary-style family photography the authentic smiles, the cozy little details, and the laughter that fills the air.

    Artistic Chicago lifestyle family photo in black and white from Humboldt Park session.
    Candid Chicago family embracing during their Humboldt Park lifestyle session.
    mom and daughter at family photography session
    Joyful candid moment captured during a fall Humboldt Park family session in Chicago.
    Emotional black and white portrait from Humboldt Park family photography session.
    Intimate documentary-style family photo in Chicago’s Humboldt Park.
  • River Forest lifestyle photography | The Lopez Family Session

    River Forest lifestyle photography | The Lopez Family Session

    A Wild Winter Session with the Lopez Family

    There is something so poetic about a morning spent at home. This session for River Forest lifestyle photography was all about the quiet, unposed moments that make up a family’s visual legacy.

    Soft light filtered through the windows as the kids began to wake. Instead of rushing for the camera, we let the coffee brew. Blankets stayed piled high while we captured the morning. These authentic connections are why I believe in the power of documentary-style sessions.

    River Forest family photographer capturing the family jumping and laughing together in front of their garage
    BOOK YOUR FAMILY SESSION
    INSTAGRAM
    TIKTOK

    If you want to be inspired by change and good things, I encourage you to follow their adventures. They are a family who doesn’t just wish for a better world. Instead, they are making it happen in real-time. They are wonderfully invested in their community and live their words out loud. Specifically, it has been a true pleasure to watch their projects take shape.

    A family walking under umbrellas in matching outfits near a garage door.
    Documentary photography of a family of five laughing on their porch.

    Lifestyle Family Sessions in Maywood and River Forest

    I actually grew up in the very community they are helping shape. I walked those same streets and visited that same library as a child. Because of this, it feels surreal and beautiful how life leads you back to your beginnings. I am so proud of the work they do! If you want to follow their journey, the Firehouse Dream .

    Traveling often for River Forest lifestyle photography sessions, I capture families who value real, unscripted moments. Whether we are playing in the fresh snow or snuggling on the couch, these stories matter. I hope you enjoy their session, as it was certainly a favorite of mine this year.

    kids playing in snow river forest IL documentary family photography
    kid watching the snow drop black and white image Maywood IL
    Candid lifestyle photography of two sisters laughing together in the snow.
    sibling upside down on a couch Adri De La Cruz capturing family snuggles on a couch.
    River Forest family photographer Adri De La Cruz capturing family snuggles on a couch.
    A family cozying up on a couch, with parents and children expressing warmth and affection towards each other.
    Documentary family photography showing the beautiful chaos of three siblings playing on a couch.
    Documentary family photography showing the beautiful chaos of three siblings playing on a couch.
    Sibling portraits in front of a piano during a Maywood lifestyle session.
    sibling portraits in front of piano RIVER FOREST FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER
    A group of four young girls playfully interacting in a bright room with a piano in the background. One girl sits on a stool, while the others hug and lean on her, showcasing expressions of joy and friendship.
    Three young girls having fun together, with one playfully leaning in to kiss another on the cheek while the third girl laughs joyfully. They are dressed in colorful sweaters and dresses, against a backdrop of a white brick wall and a piano.
    River Forest family photographer documenting a family walk through the woods.
    A group of five people posing together on a fallen tree in a forested area. The scene is captured in black and white, with trees in the background and a serene, natural environment.
    River Forest family photographer capturing a dad and his kids in their local community.
    family walking through mostly empty forest in the Fall River Forest IL
    A couple embracing and kissing by a tranquil pond surrounded by autumn foliage.
    A family enjoying a day by a lake in autumn, featuring two adults and several children. One child is playfully pointing, wearing a cozy hat and a pink coat, surrounded by colorful fall foliage.
    river forest trailside museum family photography
    A group of five children and two adults walking together on a path in an autumn forest, surrounded by colorful fall foliage. River Forest Family Photographer
    A girl sitting on outdoor steps, wearing a cozy pink jacket and gray sweater, smiling at the camera. River Forest Family Photographer
    A group of friends walking together by a lake in an autumn setting, with trees reflecting in the water. River Forest Family Photographer
    A woman in a knitted sweater and beanie smiles while standing in a forested area with trees in the background. River Forest Family Photographer

    Planning a Documentary Session in the Chicago Suburbs

    Additionally, I want to share why these “weather stop” sessions are so special. Many families wait for the “perfect” sunny day in River Forest. However, some of my favorite images happen when the weather is wild. For example, the way the light hits the falling snow creates a magical glow that you cannot find in a studio.

    Therefore, I encourage my clients to embrace the elements! As a River Forest family photographer, I know that your real life doesn’t always happen in perfect weather. It happens in the rain, the snow, and the quiet moments inside your home. Because I focus on documentary storytelling as a Chicago family photographer , we can make magic anywhere. If you are looking for a session that feels like “you,” I would love to connect. In fact, we can start planning your adventure today.

  • Northerly Island Family Session | Chicago | Lauber Family

    Northerly Island Family Session | Chicago | Lauber Family

    A Heartfelt Goodbye: Northerly Island Family Session

    Planning a Northerly Island family session is the perfect way to capture the essence of Chicago, especially for families preparing for a big move. I may be slightly biased, but families that invite me into their births are the most special to me. That level of trust is truly unparalleled. I was lucky enough to be there for the birth of their little miss. Specifically, I witnessed Lacy be incredibly strong and saw the deep devotion from her husband and birth partner. It was an honor to document such an intimate moment. I photographed this family a few times I want to share their birth session which changed me as an artist.

    A woman in a green dress walking towards a young child in brown overalls, inside a large open structure with metal beams and a city skyline in the background on a sunny day.
    BOOK YOUR FAMILY SESSION
    INSTAGRAM
    TIKTOK

    When she reached out for this Northerly Island family session, I genuinely felt a bit sad. However, I am so happy for them! They are expanding their community and moving closer to family. I wish them all the luck in the world in their new chapter. Thankfully, Instagram allows us to stay in touch so I can see those babies grow up from afar.

    A wide shot of the Northerly Island family session featuring the Sears Tower and Chicago skyline.
    the Lauber family during their Northerly Island family session with the Chicago skyline in the background.

    Capturing Chicago Memories by the Lake

    We decided to choose the city as our backdrop for these “goodbye” portraits. For instance, a Northerly Island family session offers the perfect mix of skyline views and natural lakefront beauty. Chicago is the city that has seen their babies grow up until now. Consequently, it felt right to document their final days here against the skyline they love as a Chicago Family Photographer .

    In addition to the sentimental value, the lighting at Northerly Island is always a photographer’s dream. The wide-open space allows the golden hour to hit just right. Furthermore, the kids had a blast exploring the paths and the big rocks along the shore. I hope it is not “goodbye” forever, but rather a “see you later.”

    A young child wearing a white shirt and overalls, walking joyfully on a surface marked by shadows and light. The background features greenery and a building.
    A woman in a long green dress sitting on a log in a grassy field, holding a guitar with a city skyline in the background.
    Authentically captured moments of a family of four at a Northerly Island family session
    A family walking through a grassy field with scattered rocks under a clear blue sky.
    A family enjoying a day outdoors, with a man climbing rocks, a woman holding a child, and another man sitting on top of the rocks, surrounded by greenery and a clear blue sky.
    A young girl standing on a large limestone rock during a Northerly Island family session
    A smiling child with curly hair wearing a brown overall stands in a grassy field.
    A woman sitting on large rocks, gently kissing a young child who is sitting on her lap Northely island paths
    A young girl standing on a large limestone rock during a Northerly Island family session
    A family enjoying a day outdoors by a body of water, with one child exploring the grassy path while parents share a moment with their other child.
    A mother holding her young child in a natural outdoor setting, both engaged in a moment of connection. The child has curly hair with a bow and is gently reaching for flowers on the ground.
    Full family hug showing connection and love during a Northerly Island family session.
    A man holding hands with a child walking along a rocky shoreline near a lake, with sunlight reflecting on the water.
    A parent and child enjoying a day outdoors, with the child reaching up to touch the leaves of a tree while the parent looks on, surrounded by greenery and rocky terrain.
  • Itasca IL Family Photographs | A Personal Journey

    Itasca IL Family Photographs | A Personal Journey

    As an Itasca IL family photographs provider, I love using all of the beautiful locations around me to photograph my own family. Last year, I dragged my little crew out to a field for some portraits. However, I did not book a photographer early enough. Therefore, I took these myself with a tripod and a self-timer. I would absolutely not recommend it because it is so tedious! Also, a few coyotes came out of nowhere and scared us. But nonetheless, we did the best we could with what we had.

    This year, things are looking very different. No, I still did not book someone early enough. Consequently, I will have to figure that out somehow. But life is changing for other reasons now. In many ways, life is staying the same. This is because even though love evolves, it persists if it is real.

    “This life is mine alone. So I have stopped asking people for directions to places they’ve never been.”
    ― Glennon Doyle

    A smiling young girl in a white dress holding a bundle of green foliage, standing in a field during sunset. Itasca IL family photographer
    BOOK YOUR FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER
    INSTAGRAM
    TIKTOK

    Finding My New Normal in Itasca

    Our family moving forward will look different. I do not mean to vaguely brush over these changes. Instead, I am still working to accept my new normal. Even though I am the one leading the charge for change, it is a big transition. This change comes with so much love and respect for the life we built and are now saying goodbye to. It was ten years of a relationship that made me grow tremendously.

    Documenting Life as an Itasca IL Family Photographer

    2020 has simultaneously been both the worst and the best experience. Begrudgingly, it has propelled me forward. I have always loved living in my positivity. In fact, I know that the grass is greener wherever I stand. We will be okay, and we will support each other through these changes. While I don’t specifically live in Itasca, I have Manu beautiful memories with my family here so I guess I consider myself and Itasca IL family photographs

    A woman holding a young girl, with a young boy standing beside them, in a grassy field during sunset. Itasca IL family photographer

    As a mother and Chicago Family Photographer my heart is with my kids. Specifically, I know that grown-up situations can be so hard on little ones. In my life, I have known hardship. However, I have always worked to overcome it. It has not made me tough or cynical. If anything, it has made me much more grateful. I love my softness. Ultimately, I think it shows others that not everything has to be hard. Changes are scary, but we will take it day by day.

    A child in a white dress runs down a gravel path during sunset, with trees and bare branches in the foreground and background. Itasca IL family photographer
    A young boy wearing a brown beanie and a jacket smiles while hugging a girl who is holding greenery, both standing in a grassy field during sunset. Itasca IL family photographer
    A woman holding a young girl, with a young boy standing beside them, smiling in a field during sunset.
    A young boy wearing a brown beanie and a dark jacket smiles while holding a bundle of greenery, standing in a field during sunset.
    A happy family of four sitting together on a blanket in a grassy field during sunset. The parents are smiling at the camera while their two children, a boy and a girl, are seated in front of them, all looking cheerful.

    “A broken family is a family in which any member must break herself into pieces to fit in. A whole family is one in which each member can bring her full self to the table knowing that she will always be both held and free.”

    ― Glennon Doyle

  • Orland Park family photography | Dryfhout Family

    Orland Park family photography | Dryfhout Family

    Orland Park Family Photography: Capturing Honesty Over Poses

    There is a specific magic in documenting a family exactly as they are. I recently had the pleasure of a session in the South Suburbs. It reminded me why I love Orland Park family photography. Some people look for perfectly stiff portraits. However, my goal is always different. I want to find the raw, unscripted moments. These are the bits that truly tell your family’s story.

    A black and white photo of three children, one boy holding a girl close while another girl stands in front, all surrounded by trees. Orland Park family photography
    Book your family session
    Instagram
    Tiktok

    Finding Beauty in the South Suburbs

    Orland Park has incredible pockets of nature. These spots serve as the perfect backdrop for a documentary session. Specifically, we lean into the “honesty over poses” philosophy. The environment becomes a playground for connection. It is no longer just a stage. During this Orland Park family photography session, we focused on the kids. We captured the quiet hand-holding and the belly laughs. We even caught the messy, chaotic bits. Consequently, the final gallery feels like a true reflection of their life.

    A couple embracing in a sunlit outdoor setting, surrounded by evergreen trees. The woman is wearing a dark sweater and a shiny skirt, while the man is dressed in a brown coat and blue shirt. The scene captures a warm and romantic atmosphere. Orland Park family photography

    Why Documentary Storytelling Matters

    I serve the greater Chicagoland area. Often, I see how much pressure families feel to be “perfect” for the camera. Furthermore, I believe the most beautiful images come when you let go. Choosing Orland Park + Chicago family photographer means choosing storytelling. You will look back at these photos and remember a feeling. You won’t just remember how you looked. As a result, these images become true family heirlooms.

    A couple embraces outdoors in a golden hour setting, surrounded by pine trees. The woman wears a dark sweater and a shiny, sequined skirt, while the man is dressed in a brown jacket. They share a joyful and intimate moment.

    Booking Your Session

    If you are looking for a photographer who values your family’s unique energy, I would love to chat. Whether you are here in Orland Park or looking for a Western Springs maternity session, my approach remains the same: honesty over poses, every time. You can view my current family pricing and portfolio here. For more local information, the Village of Orland Park website is a great resource for finding your own favorite park for our next shoot.

    A man carrying a child on his arm walks alongside a girl in a floral dress, with evergreen trees in the background during a sunset. Orland Park family photography

    Your Experience with The Adri Photo Co

    My process is simple and relaxed. I want you to feel at home in front of my lens. Whether we are in a local park or your backyard, the focus remains on you. However We don’t worry about perfect hair or matching outfits. Instead, we focus on the love that holds your family together. This is what makes my approach to Orland Park family photography unique.

    A family portrait outdoors with evergreen trees in the background, showcasing a warm autumn atmosphere. Orland Park family photography
    A boy hugging a girl in a sunny outdoor setting, flanked by trees. Orland Park family photography.
    A person holding a child dressed in a shiny jacket, standing close to a tree during sunset, while another figure walks in the background. Orland Park family photography
    A family walking through a forest during sunset, with one adult carrying a child. The scene features greenery, sunlight filtering through trees, and casual outdoor attire. Orland Park family photography
    A man holding a young girl in a shiny coat, smiling in a natural setting with evergreen trees in the background.
    A family of five poses together outdoors during sunset, smiling happily. The parents are standing in the center, with three children beside them, showcasing cozy fall attire and a festive outfit. Orland Park family photography
    A mother and daughter embrace in a sunny outdoor setting, surrounded by evergreen trees and golden grass, with warm sunlight illuminating the scene. Orland Park family photography
    A woman and a girl are holding hands while walking in a sunlit field surrounded by evergreen trees. The woman wears a dark top and a shiny skirt, while the girl is in a floral dress and black leggings. Orland Park family photography
    A woman in a maroon top and a shiny silver skirt holds hands with a girl in a floral dress while spinning. Another child is being held by the woman. The scene is set outdoors in a grassy area with trees and a warm sunset glow. Orland Park family photography
    A woman and two young girls enjoy a playful moment in a sunlit field, surrounded by evergreen trees. The woman holds one girl's hand while carrying the other, who is dressed in a shiny outfit.
    A young girl with long hair and a white ribbon smiles warmly in front of a sunlit background, surrounded by nature.
    A young girl in a floral dress is running through a field at sunset, surrounded by trees.
    A smiling young man in a denim jacket with a shearling collar stands in a scenic outdoor setting, surrounded by trees and soft sunlight. Orland Park family photography
    A couple embracing and sharing a kiss in a sunlit field surrounded by evergreen trees. Orland Park family photography
  • O’Hare Documentary Family Photographer | Storytelling

    O’Hare Documentary Family Photographer | Storytelling

    This O’Hare documentary family photographer session is deeply personal. After 15 years apart, watching my mom reunite with her mother was a surreal, soulful experience that only candid, documentary photography could truly capture at our local airport.

    On the left my Aunt Paty holding her face as I take a photograph, and on the right my cousins and aunts holding my daughter O'Hare documentary family photographer
    Personal portfolio
    Book your photographer
    Instagram
    Tiktok

    O’Hare Documentary Family Photographer: The Art of the Reunion

    It is hard to find the right words for a moment like this. I have seen my mom cry many times after phone calls. Each time, she wished she could see her mother again. It has been over 15 years. Consequently, the moment she told me she would see her mom felt surreal. You eventually accept the reality that you may never see that person again when you choose to immigrate to the USA. This is my family’s story, but it is also a story shared by many.

    The Role of an O’Hare Documentary Family Photographer

    They brought balloons for their mother a little of whimsy O'Hare documentary family photographer

    This topic is rarely black and white. As an O’Hare documentary family photographer, I see these raw emotions often.On this day, we arrived three hours early. We waited anxiously for a familiar face in the crowd. We even brought balloons for the occasion. However, my two-year-old released them onto the airport ceiling just before the meet and greet. We sat there and watched strangers reunite. We saw passengers return home and kids run through the halls.

    A Soulful Homecoming

    Finally, we saw her rushing through the terminal. She looked exactly as I remembered. Disbelief hit us all for a quick moment. Time showed on her skin, yet her eyes were more beautiful than I remembered. They were just as kind as ever. Deep hugs followed, and the tears flowed freely. Ultimately, my Aunt broke the gravity of the moment. She emerged from the bathroom upset that she missed the first sighting, making us all laugh.

    We hope she can visit us much more often now. We also hope to travel to see her soon. I feel so happy to have captured these special images. If you need an O’Hare documentary family photographer to tell your story, I would love to help. I adore that my job as a Chicago Family photographer has allowed me to forever capture my families stories.

    O'Hare documentary family photographer
    2016-12-01_0005
    O'Hare documentary family photographer
    man reading his newpaper, while my Abuela and out hug in the back a man leaning on the wall
    O'Hare documentary family photographer my mother shoving her way to hug her mother
    2016-12-01_0009
    2016-12-01_0010
    2016-12-01_0011
    2016-12-01_0012
    2016-12-01_0013
    2016-12-01_0014
    2016-12-01_0015
    2016-12-01_0016

  • 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