{The Tyler Family} :: Chicago Family Photographer

I love nothing more than to work with a family that I've the privilege of seeing through the lens on many different occasions. And really, what better form of flattery than repeat business? We had an absolutely perfect day, and a perfect setting right outside their front door to do the Tyler family portraits, and I couldn't have spent it with a more beautiful family :) Thank you, again and again, for inviting me in your lives! And thanks for the delicious tacos, too!

{McMillin Family}

It is so sad to bear the thought of losing another friend to moving away, but I'm so very thankful that I've had the chance to watch these kids grow :) And what a great way to go out by celebrating and taking photographs in some of their favorite places in this great city!? We had an absolutely perfect morning, and I couldn't think of a nicer family to spend it with. Thanks McMillin Family! Chicago will definitely miss you!

{Baby Analise} :: Chicago Baby Photographer

Welcome to the world sweet Baby Analise! We'll be sad to see you move away to St. Louis, but you'll always be a Chicago Girl :)

{Seyferth Family} :: Chicago Family Photographer

There is nothing I love more than big brothers & sweet little sisters! Something about the dynamic they share is so very sweet, almost like they are protective already. Just like these two kiddos....although I know its sooooo difficult to tell they're related ;) What a beautiful session - thanks so much Seyferth family!

{Bella & Charli} - Chicago Children's Photographer

This is the story of two very sweet sisters that share the same birthday. This month sweet Charli turns one, and big sister Bella turns three!

But, this is quite a bigger story than that. I don't usually preview this many photographs from a session, but I feel so very strongly about these photos and about this story, that I'm going to go ahead and do it, just this once :).

It is not a new story....most people know there is something incredibly special about motherhood. It is absolutely the hardest job I've ever had. Giggles, laughs, cuddles and smiles are all most parents have to compensate for the daily struggle that oh so obstinate and head strong kids put up.

I look at the following series of photos and my heart swells. Maybe its because I'm emotional, maybe its because I love this mom and these kids so very much, or maybe its just because these are moments of simple, unabashed love and beauty. Chaos and joy - which is everything that motherhood is. These stolen moments get us through the times when the screaming doesn't stop, toddler is winning the battle, that we want to loose our cool, and we want to run away to Siberia....

Because of these photos, I encourage you all to get in front of the camera with your children!! Play, love and have fun :) What surprises me is that most parents are so apprehensive to get in front of the camera, and I implore (as a parent, not as a photographer!) you all to reconsider. Having moments like these, frozen in time, will be treasured memories for you and your children for years to come.

{The O'Brien Family} :: Chicago Family Photographer

I can't wait to do more of these types of portraits! Perfect for extended families :) Each family unit is photographed separately, then the images are compiled together to create the perfect family photograph!

{My Kids} :: Chicago Children's Photographer

As much as I hate to admit it, more often than not I forget to make the time and capture special moments between my own kids :) Preserving these moments in time is such an important task!
When I do finally give them their own photoshoot, I'm always reminded how very grateful I am that I have this wonderful gift of photography to give to my family, and to others.

Thank you to all of you out there that have entrusted me with your memories!