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Henry and Elena in Lincoln Park

This is a family who loves to be together. Their love and joy is palpable and contagious, and that’s why I was so touched when I read what Corinne had written on my photo contract under How did you hear about me?: “You’re a part of our family now! :)”

That made my year.

Even when you have a job you absolutely love like I do…it’s hard to keep juggling it all, sometimes. But it’s comments like that, and families like this one, who started out as clients and morphed into much more than that, who make it all worth it. I look forward to seeing them every year…chatting, catching up on the latest, and capturing special memories for them as their family grows and changes. They are the reason I love what I do!

I have watched Henry and Elena grow up over the past six years. Our first session together was at this same location, a sentimental spot where Corinne and Todd took wedding photos years earlier…but teeny-tiny Elena wasn’t having it that day. We couldn’t help but tease Elena last weekend about her past baby diva moment!

Thanks for another awesome time, you guys! I loved hanging out with you on that gorgeous, sunny morning, and hope you enjoy the rest of your summer!

 

Sarah at the Hawthorn MyPerks Lounge

When Sarah reached out about a new set of fun headshots, I couldn’t have been more excited. Or so I thought. Then I walked into the new MyPerks Lounge at the Hawthorn Mall, where Sarah suggested we shoot, and, since I was the only one in there, I MAY have done a little happy dance. What a fresh, cool space to work…or shoot a headshot session! We had a ton of backdrop options within that space.  And, as evidenced by these photos, Sarah and I had a wonderful time. I think these perfectly capture her sweet, sunny personality and all of the amazing work she’s doing with the Libertyville Area Moms website. Thanks for reaching out, Sarah! I love working with you, and can’t wait for our family session coming up soon.

 

Happy Birthday, Tali!

It’s hard to believe Tali is 7 already! I have been taking her photos since she was an infant, and her family’s since before she was born. It’s always so special for me to document her milestones, especially her birthday parties, which are always filled with amazing details and personal touches by her party-planner extraordinaire mom, Judith.  This year’s party was at Altitude Trampoline Park. What a cool place! All of the kids had the best time being daredevils on the high-dive, trapeze, rock wall, and on the dodgeball court. It was so much fun to watch them! Thanks for including me in the fun once again, Judith and John, and HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Tali!

 

 

 

Hadley, Paxton, and Lincoln Explore Lilacia Park

I had a gorgeous, sunny morning a few weeks ago to explore Lilacia Park in Lombard with three of my favorites. Hadley, Paxton, and Lincoln gave me some terrific smiles, and had a great time scoping out statues, flowers, and a waterfall in this pretty park. It was the perfect session to ring in the summer season. It was wonderful to catch up, Hollye and Mike! I can’t get over how much the kiddos have grown. Enjoy all of your fun summer plans with them, and Happy Father’s Day, Mike!

Katie at the Coffee Shop

I was so excited when Katie reached out about a set of fun new headshots. She is one busy lady, juggling a fulltime marketing job, writing for Chicago Parent and The Every Mom, and blogging about life with her active, growing family. I love following the stories she shares on her blog, Live Half Full. When Katie suggested shooting at Tala Coffee Roasters in Highwood, I jumped at the chance. I love the vibe in these pictures, and feel like they really capture Katie’s beautiful, creative, sincere personality. Thanks for a fun time, Katie! It was terrific getting to know you.