{Nathaniel C.} :: Chicago Children's Photography

I've photographed many children, but I can honestly say there has never been one quite as sweet as Nathaniel! I still am marveling at how easily he sat and smiled at me, effortlessly, as if it were the most natural thing in the world. I think nearly every frame featured his big, gorgeous grin! Thanks, Annie, for inviting me over to spend the morning with you two :)

Spring 2011

Spring 2011, originally uploaded by ~*~ KO ~*~.

One quick preview from our family photo shoot this past weekend :) More to come!

{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.