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Keira and Ryan

Fall is both a great and challenging time to take family photos. Great because my clients will have recent pics to share on holiday cards, and if we are lucky, they might have a gorgeous backdrop of colorful foliage. Challenging because the weather is traditionally rainy and gloomy, and everyone is extremely busy (myself, included!) so rescheduling for a date when the weather will hopefully cooperate is difficult. That’s why I was so excited when Tammy and Chris opted to move their photo session to their house last Saturday afternoon rather than reschedule. While we originally had plans to shoot in a local park, which I am sure would have been lovely, I really believe there is something cozy and special about shooting at home. First, it’s by far the easiest, least stressful option for you, my dear clients. Second, we can include beloved family pets in the photos. Third, wardrobe changes are definitely an option (especially if one of you is a prima ballerina. As you can see….we can have LOTS of fun!). And, last but not least, someday, when you look back at your photos, seeing the place that your kids grew up in…remembering small details from their childhood rooms and the space you all spent so much time in together…will give the images even more meaning.

Tammy and Chris were some of my first ever clients. The last time I saw Keira, she was just a baby. So, you can imagine how excited I was to catch up with this crew last weekend and meet Keira’s little brother, Ryan. Keira was as much of a top model as ever, and a very talented ballerina. Ryan showed off some hip hop dance moves, told me all about his love of golf, and has the sweetest smile ever. Tammy and Chris, I can’t tell you how lovely it was to see you all! Thanks for a wonderful time.

 

 

 

 

City Kids

The back and forth about whether we should reschedule this session due to crummy, rainy weather began at 6:30AM on Saturday. Welcome to October! After initially agreeing to reschedule, both Jessica and I saw a small, rainless window on the radar and we decided to go for it. I am so glad we did! Jessica had a really cool vision for her family session this year: urban mosaics. They are everywhere in the city, and she was inspired. After searching through a few lists, and with her expert scouting, we honed in on a few stops. Thanks to Michael’s awesome driving and parking skills, and Gabriela and Juliana’s top model endurance and street cred, we were able to get our whole backdrop wishlist in. These photos are so much fun! Thanks for a great time, guys. It’s always wonderful to catch up, and this was my favorite shoot with you yet (which is saying something). Not sure how we will top the excitement next time!

Rose and Charlie explore Techny Prairie Park

It was a decidedly better weather day than what we had last year (dark and sleeting!) when I met Elizabeth, Jim, Rose, and Charlie at Techny Prairie Park last Sunday! And, to add to our luck, despite having colds, Rose and Charlie brought their A-games. Look at those smiles! They were fun and adorable as we explored, ran, jumped, and collected rocks together. It was great to see you again, Elizabeth and Jim! Thanks for a great time!

Ryan, Patrick, and Evelyn in Lincoln Park

Oh my goooooooooosh! These three siblings are so adorable I can hardly take it! I was thrilled to meet this family’s newest addition, baby sister Evelyn, last Sunday morning in Lincoln Park. Evelyn takes after her big brothers in the top model department…look at all of those amazing smiles! Ryan and Patrick had me smiling and laughing our entire time together, and were just so fun and sweet with each other. Congratulations again, Colleen and Calvin, on Evelyn’s arrival, and thanks so much for coming out to the park to hang out with me. It was so terrific to see your beautiful family again!

Holiday at Home Lifestyle Sessions!

It’s the first real crisp Fall morning we have had, and my thoughts wandered to the holidays. Then I had a fun idea: how about we celebrate the holidays this year by capturing some sweet, cozy memories at home? Shots of baking cookies together in the kitchen, and sipping hot chocolate around the kitchen table. Decorating the tree, playing outside in the yard bundled in knit hats and scarves, then snuggled up in bed in your holiday PJs. Whether it’s baby’s first holiday season, or whether the kids are getting older and you want to capture the magic before things change…whatever your family’s favorite holiday traditions are, I would love to document those for you. I’m LOVING THIS IDEA! December 1, 2, 8, 9, and 15. I will provide a handful of retouched photos within 3 days after your session so you can get a jump on holiday cards and gifts, if you so wish. Spots are limited, so email me to secure yours today!