Jen Soares Photography

Happy Birthday Henry!

2012-02-09T12:19:00.000-08:00

I love it when we get to see our little birthday boys and girls on their actual birthdays. It's always so much fun to capture the excitement of their big days. Last Saturday, our friend Henry turned one. Before his birthday bash, Mike and I came over to take a few family photos with his mom and dad, three adorable pups and adoring grandparents. We couldn't get over how fast Henry has turned from a baby into a little boy. He was all smiles for us and we just couldn't get enough. Thanks for a great time, Marty and Rob, Grandma Helen and Grandpa Gregg!

Penelope

2012-02-06T11:19:00.000-08:00

Kelly and Andrew wanted to capture their baby girl, Penelope's, sweet 6-month-old personality, and it definitely wasn't hard to do. Penelope rocked her photo shoot last week, giving me smiles and showing off several adorable looks. She even posed with her furry rabbit friend, Chloe. It was so nice to meet you, Kelly and Andrew. Thanks for a great time!

Madeleine

2012-02-02T09:58:00.000-08:00

How sweet is little Madeleine? I had the best time getting to know this family last Friday morning. Madeleine gave me her best smiles, gave her parents her best cuddles, had no problem rocking three awesome wardrobe changes, and enjoyed a walk to the park. OK, she pretty much slept through our time in the park, but it was still absolutely adorable! We were just so excited to be able to sneak outside at the end of January and enjoy some sunshine! It was so nice to meet you, Ali and Erik. Will see you around the neighborhood!

Evelyn and Cecilia

2012-01-30T13:23:00.000-08:00

I had the best time visiting with my friends Evelyn and Cecilia again last week. These pictures were meant to commemorate Cecilia's 6 month milestone and Evelyn having 2.5 years under her belt. It was a gray and rainy day outside, but we sure had a lot of laughs indoors. You can't not smile when Evey laughs and when Cici smiles. Thanks for another great time with the girls, Kristina!

Owen and Emery Ring in the New Year

2012-01-24T10:37:00.000-08:00

When Owen and I first met last year, we had a great connection. He affectionately called me "Jenny" and I ate up all of his adorable, playful smiles. I absolutely couldn't WAIT to see him and his parents, Jaime and Keith, last Friday because they had a new addition to their awesome family for me to meet. Beautiful little sister Emery who made her debut about three weeks ago. Jaime wanted to use these photos for a Happy New Year/birth announcement card and had found some priceless props on Etsy. Oh. My. Goodness. Did we have a great time with this session. Congratulations again, Jaime and Keith, on Emery's arrival. I already can't wait to watch your dynamic sibling duo grow up!

Tanner Turns One

2012-01-23T14:05:00.000-08:00

Tanner has the greatest smile. And he certainly didn't hold back when I spent the morning with him last week. I can't believe how big Tanner has gotten since I saw him last year. Since he celebrated his big first birthday party last weekend, Blair and Jason thought updated photos would be the perfect way to commemorate their active, smiley big boy. It was great seeing you three again!

Preeti and Company

2012-01-19T12:13:00.000-08:00

Preeti is very interested in photography. When Mike and I arrived at her house last Sunday morning, she immediately showed us her prized photo album...and how many blank spots she hoped to fill with the photos we took together that day! Preeti also has her very own digital camera and practiced taking a few photos of us taking photos. To say we got a kick out of Preeti is an understatement. Mike and I had the best time with this little squirt. She had some fabulous photo ideas, definitely didn't mind mugging for the cameras and showed us her room and all of her favorite toys with gusto. We could have stayed and played with her all day long! Her mom and dad, Rekha and Vasu, are expecting a baby on Mike's birthday (we're rooting for that special due date) and we couldn't be more thrilled to watch this awesome family grow and flourish. It was fantastic meeting you, Rekha, Vasu and Preeti! So excited to hear your happy news come March!

Eliana and Naomi

2012-01-18T11:24:00.000-08:00

"This is FUN!," said Eliana as we bounced around her living room last Saturday morning. Well, Eliana and Naomi bounced while Mike and I laughed and the girls' parents cringed just a little. It was a great time. We bounced and played dress up, read together then played outside in the snow. Thanks for bending the bouncing rules for the sake of the shoot, Emily and Aaron! We always have the best time with you guys.

2011: Jen and Mike in Action

2012-01-12T17:55:00.000-08:00

2011 blew every expectation, wild hope and dream I ever had for JSP. Mike and I had the best time meeting new clients, growing friendships, watching dozens of our favorite families expand and flourish, crying at weddings (well, I always do...Mike, not so much), exploring new parts of the city, trying new angles, experimenting with light and pinching ourselves that we are blessed and lucky enough to be able to do this for a living. Every so often, we take the opportunity to document the good times we have shooting together. Here's a behind the scene look at how much fun we had behind our cameras in 2011. (Many thanks to my dear friend and colleague, Victoria Sprung, for snapping a few of these photos on the weddings we worked together last year. It's safe to say, we always had a really good time together.)

Our new friend Luke

2012-01-11T10:49:00.000-08:00

I couldn't get enough of his big blue eyes and full head of hair. I loved how Luke started our session with the cutest little lip tremble ever, as he tried to figure out what Mike and I were doing with those big cameras, and ended giving us some awesome smiles. And it was really fun to incorporate Brian's guitar hobby into a few photos. I think little Luke might have a future as a musician...we'll have to wait and see. We had such a great time with you, Bethany, Brian and Luke!

Lizzie and Jake

2012-01-10T11:06:00.000-08:00

Mike and I had a great time getting to know Lizzie and Jake last Saturday morning. Lizzie started out shy, but then enjoyed showing us her favorite toys and adorable sunglasses. And Jake was definitely ready to smile and mug for our cameras. It was so nice to meet you, Lauren and Dave! Thanks for a great time.

Introducing Ruth

2012-01-09T10:17:00.000-08:00

Happy 2012! My session with Annie, Nate and baby Ruth last week was the perfect way to kick off the new year. I've been excited to meet Ruth since I took Annie and Nate's maternity photos last September and she certainly didn't disappoint. What a doll-baby. It was so great to see Annie and Nate so happy and excited to have her be a part of their lives. Thanks for having me be part of this special time, and congratulations again on beautiful Ruthie!

Merry Christmas, Everyone!

2011-12-22T07:04:00.000-08:00

There's just something about my parents' house at Christmas time. Well, there's just something relaxing and rejuvenating about being at my parents' house, period. But at Christmas, it's magical. All of us...Mom and Dad, Becky, Mike and I...turn into children again. Christmas morning in the Soares house is epic. We spend hours sitting by the tree in our PJs, sipping coffee and laughing at the crazy gifts we surprised each other with. Today, as I finish up the last few sessions of the year, wrap a few miscellaneous gifts and pack up to head home, I am so excited I can barely stand it.

Wishing all of you a very happy, safe, healthy, Merry Christmas with your own families.

Gold Stars this week...well, this month, really!...go to:

*Holiday cards: Oh my goodness. Mike and I have been absolutely overwhelmed by the smiling faces and sweet words that come in the mail every day. Seeing so many of the photos we have taken for our clients, our friends, throughout the year is such a thrill and means the world to us.

*Our very first real Christmas Tree: This year, "tree-in-a-bucket" was relegated to our mantle and Mike and I got our first real Christmas tree. I've never had a real tree before, and I have to admit that despite how hilarious seeing it bundled and tied to the top of our car was for me...and after my initial shock at how huge it actually was once unbundled in our place...I love it more than anything. The fact that it smells SO GOOD. The fact that it's decorated with ornaments from our wedding year and the photos and memories we have made together over the past five years. The fact that it makes our house feel like a home.

*Tradition: Every year, Mike and I like to celebrate the holiday just the two of us by heading out to dinner, looking forward to the holiday and family time stretching before us, enjoying a cozy moment before the rush of excitement. This year, before dinner, Mike is taking me to "Zoo Lights" in Lincoln Park, knowing it's one of my favorites places in the city. I think this is the first year since we've been in Chicago that it hasn't been too cold or snowy to enjoy it!

Merry Christmas, Sean!

2011-12-19T13:53:00.000-08:00

This was the perfect session to wrap 2011 with. Mike and I had so much fun with Marlen, Sean and their new baby, Sean, last Sunday morning. Baby Sean was just adorable, rocking several wardrobe changes, a Santa costume, and some awesome family moments. We loved getting to know you three (and Bella the cat!). Thanks for a great time and enjoy the holidays with baby Sean!

Ainsley

2011-12-19T10:36:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to eat this little one right up. Oh. My. Goodness. Ainsley is just the cutest. She melted our hearts by wanting to play with us, sit in our laps and hold our hands, (especially Mike!) throughout our entire session. It was great meeting you, Regan and Gabe. Enjoy Christmas with little Ainsley!

Levi

2011-12-14T11:50:00.000-08:00

I had a great time getting to know Levi and his family earlier this week. He was a very willing and chill little model, showing me his favorite spots at home, hanging with his best buddy, Kona, the family dog, and exploring the Lincoln Park Conservatory with me. It was really nice meeting you, Jayme and Mark! Have a great holiday.

Gabriella

2011-12-14T08:35:00.000-08:00

Gabriella is a top model. She rocked three awesome little outfits, gave us her best poses and smiles and never hesitated to cuddle with mom and dad. It was great meeting you, Shelia and Eric! Have a wonderful holiday with Gabriella!

Luke, Sammy, Drew and Lexi

2011-12-13T09:46:00.000-08:00

Love this family! Luke, Sammy, Drew and Lexi gave us a lot of laughs last Sunday while we took their holiday photos. We can't get over how big these four have gotten since we saw them last year. Thanks for a great time, Shannon, Sammy and Michelle! It was nice seeing you all again.

Emily, Joshua and Benjamin deck the halls

2011-12-13T08:09:00.000-08:00

Mike and I had such a great time with Emily, Joshua and Benjamin last Saturday morning. They gave us their best smiles and loads of holiday cheer, and it was so sweet to watch the family decorate their tree together. Thanks for another great time, Lauren and Andrew! Have a wonderful holiday!

Merry Christmas Landon

2011-12-12T08:09:00.000-08:00

Mike and I kicked off 2011 with a fun (but COLD!) holiday light session with one of our favorite families, Karina, Jason and Landon. So it was only fitting that one of my last sessions of the year would be with the same three. It was striking how big Landon has grown since our last chilly outing together. This time, we not only hit up our favorite Michigan Ave. light displays around the Water Tower, but we also snuck inside the Hancock building to check out their awesome train display, enjoyed a few shots in front of one of the biggest, prettiest trees in the city at Bloomies and wrapped up our time together in front of the tree in Landon's very own building. Thanks again for a wonderful time, Karina and Jason! Have a wonderful Christmas.

Merry Christmas, Neil!

2011-12-12T07:05:00.000-08:00

Gretchen, Colin and I were so excited to take advantage of Chicago's first snow last Friday morning. It was perfect for their holiday card session. Little Neil, though? He was a little less excited about taking photos! Despite that fact, he was a true top model and managed to give me a few amazing smiles in front of the Christmas tree and while out and about, playing in the snow. Have a wonderful holiday, Gretchen and Colin! It was so nice to catch up with you three again.

Sidney

2011-12-08T11:52:00.000-08:00

This little 6 month old wasn't at all phased by her photo shoot. She smiled and flirted with the camera, played with Christmas lights, sat in buckets and dressed up in a fancy party dress...all with flair. I had a great time, Jami and Michael! Merry Christmas!

Tyson

2011-12-08T08:20:00.000-08:00

How cute is little Tyson? I just couldn't get enough of him. He took his first photo shoot in stride and was so chill about all of the posing and wardrobe changes that he almost fell asleep half way through the session! Loved him. It was so nice to meet you, Micah and Vince! Have a great holiday season with your little one.

Annabelle's Holiday Best

2011-12-08T06:58:00.000-08:00

It was time once again to visit with my little friend, Annabelle, this week to take a few holiday photos of her. We had a great time exploring her family's Christmas tree, as well as the one in her building's lobby. Annabelle gave me a ton of smiles and rocked her two holiday looks. Thanks for a fun time, Elizabeth! Merry Christmas!

Holiday Spirit

2011-12-07T12:02:00.000-08:00

Who has holiday spirit? Miles does! He didn't stop smiling our entire time together and was such a good sport. It was great meeting you, Shannon and Kristen! Enjoy the holiday with your adorable little one.

Logan and Cooper celebrate the holidays

2011-12-06T14:35:00.000-08:00

Just try and tell me these aren't two of the cutest little Santas you've ever seen. I dare ya. Thinking back to last Christmas, Cooper was just a peanut newborn...look how much he's grown in a year! It's such a joy for us to watch Logan and Cooper grow up. Thanks for another fun time, Jeff and Lisa, and have a great holiday!

Merry Christmas Noah!

2011-12-02T09:36:00.000-08:00

I don't think I've ever met another little client who was more excited to take photos than Noah. He clapped and smiled throughout our entire hour together. He couldn't get enough of the camera and I couldn't get enough of him! It was great to meet you, Betsy and Zean. Have a terrific holiday with Noah and the rest of your families.

Introducing Kyle

2011-12-02T07:28:00.000-08:00

This newborn melted my heart. At just 2-weeks old, Kyle rocked his photo shoot. He kept his eyes open and on the camera the entire time, was extremely patient with a variety of poses and ardrobe changes...and I swear he even smiled a few times. So adorable! Congratulations again, Katie and Justin! Kyle is the best holiday gift I can think of for the two of you.

Happy First Christmas, Liam!

2011-12-01T10:58:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness, did we have a blast with this photoshoot! Liam was such a good sport, trying on several incredible holiday hats and posing with everything from Christmas lights to his mom and dad. Thanks for a great time, Bri and Chris! Looking forward to meeting the rest of the family this weekend.

Charlie

2011-11-28T12:56:00.000-08:00

Last week, I had the opportunity to meet my little client Ciara's Auntie, Uncle and cousin, Charlie. We had a great time in Lincoln Park, playing in the leaves and exploring the all-but-empty zoo. (8:30-9AM on a weekday, man...it's the best time to visit!) Charlie is just the cutest. It was so nice meeting you guys!

Grant

2011-11-22T12:30:00.001-08:00

Last year, we mercilessly dressed little Grant up like an elf for his holiday photos. This year, since Grant is older and able to participate in the holiday, Erica and Todd decided to capture the start of a new family tradition: decorating the tree together. I'm pleased to report that only a few beautiful glass ornaments bit the dust during the photo session. (And it was pretty funny. Grant quickly learned that not all ball-shaped things can be easily thrown!) Thanks for another great time! And happy holidays!

Ben and Molly

2011-11-22T10:23:00.000-08:00

Mike and I had two really fun holiday sessions this past Sunday. The first was with our little friends Ben and Molly. Ben showed us his favorite Christmas ornaments and Molly played charmingly with twinkle lights. Even Cooper the dog got into the holiday spirit and obligingly cuddled with the family for a few fun shots. Have a fantastic holiday season, Katy and Jason! Thanks for another great time.

Alisa and Kayla Revisited

2011-11-22T08:24:00.000-08:00

I just can't get enough of these two little sisters! Alisa and Kayla have just settled into a beautiful new home with their mom and dad and are now getting ready for the holidays. Mike and I got such a kick out of their sweet smiles last Saturday afternoon. Thanks for having us over, Aysem and Robert, and congratulations again on your new place!

Happy Birthday Cooper!

2011-11-22T07:03:00.001-08:00

When Mike and I first met this family back in 2009, Logan was 3 months old. Last weekend, we had the pleasure of celebrating his little brother Cooper's first birthday. Over the years, we've had the pleasure of meeting grandparents and extended family and have grown to consider Jeff and Lisa dear friends. Watching Logan and Cooper grow up has been such a joy for us. We love you guys...thanks for having us be a part of Cooper's special day!

Evelyn and Zeke

2011-11-21T12:43:00.001-08:00

What can I say? The camera loves my friends Evelyn and Zeke. These two are natural models and I just love the joy they exude while mugging for my camera. We met in Winnemac Park at 4:30PM last Friday and the light was amazing. An idyllic setting for these top models. It was so nice to see you guys again. Enjoy your holiday!

Sophie, Kate and Finn

2011-11-18T10:07:00.001-08:00

These three little ones put a smile on my face this week like no other. Dressed in their holiday best, they were ready for their Christmas card photos. It always a challenge to get three little ones to sit still, together, no less. But Sophie, Kate and Finn did a great job for me and I couldn't get enough of them. Thanks for having me over, Kristen! It was great meeting you guys.

Elfie

2011-11-16T16:49:00.000-08:00

Every year after Thanksgiving, when my sister and I were little, Mom and Dad would inform us that "Elfie," Santa's helper, had been assigned to the Soares girls for the season to make sure we were behaving properly until Christmas. We loved the idea of Elfie. He was always a sweet little spirit in the house for a month, joyfully watching over us. In my wildest dreams, I don't think I could have pictured a Christmas elf any cuter than little Tess! Oh. My. Goodness. Erin and I had so much fun dressing this little squirt up in crazy holiday getups for their family Christmas card. I am so pumped to see how it turns out. Thanks for another great time, Erin and Tess!

Introducing Anya

2011-11-16T13:22:00.000-08:00

Ah, newborn sessions. I just love them. The little peanuts are adorable no matter what they are up to: sleeping, crying, looking around, eating, snuggling. Yep, all cute. That said, little Anya rocked her newborn session last Wednesday. I couldn't get enough of her big, beautiful eyes and, of course, her fab wardrobe. Congratulations, Amola and Shamik. Anya is just gorgeous!

Meet Will

2011-11-15T16:10:00.000-08:00

Oh. My. Goodness. It doesn't get much cuter than little Will. His mom, Kristen, and I had so much fun dressing him up and posing him for photos last week. And he was such a great sport while we giggled over how cute he looked in his little hats and onesies. Thanks for having me over, Kristen! It was so nice to meet you two.

Ori and Tova: Ready for Santa

2011-11-15T15:27:00.000-08:00

Judith and I had a lot of laughs trying to pose Ori and his best fur buddy, Tova, for a holiday card photo. They're both so adorable that I couldn't resist posting this shot. Gotta love a boy and his dog. Thanks for a fun time, Judith! Can't wait to see how cute the card turns out.

Eleanor and Scout in Humboldt Park

2011-11-10T14:22:00.000-08:00

She can talk! I was floored when I was greeted by Eleanor's little voice when we met up in Humboldt Park last Sunday afternoon. What happened to that little peanut that I first met what seems like only yesterday? Eleanor is turning into one adorable little lady, and I had a blast exploring Humboldt Park with her and best buddy, Scoutie. It was great seeing you again, Sarah and Eric!

Sebastian...SO BIG!

2011-11-09T16:04:00.000-08:00

I had such a great time seeing Sebastian and his parents Kim and Steve last Sunday morning at the Ohio Street beach and park. The last time I saw Sebastian, he was a smiley little baby. Now would you just look at this happy, active little boy? Thanks for a fun time, Kim and Steve!

Bryce, Sabrina and Reid take The Drake

2011-11-09T14:45:00.000-08:00

I was so excited to see three of my favorite kiddos last Saturday afternoon. Would you just look at how big Bryce, Sabrina and Reid are getting? The twins are walking! And Bryce cracked me up with his cute little, "Hi Jen!" We met at the Drake then risked the chill to spend a little time downtown. It was so great to catch up with your beautiful family again, Lindsay and Ryan. Enjoy the holidays!

Abbey, Charlie and Maeve

2011-11-09T13:01:00.000-08:00

I loved these three! Abbey, Charlie and baby Maeve. Loved their smiles and their giggles and their energy. So cute. A fantastic way to spend last Friday afternoon.

Jen 3.0

2011-11-09T06:41:00.000-08:00

I wasn't sure how I was going to feel today. Leaving my 20s behind and entering a new decade of life. If anything, I figured I would freak out. But I have to admit...I am strangely calm. (And, for anyone who knows me...that IS strange.) I am entering into my 30th year with no major regrets. (Not losing the 5-10 pounds I've been complaining about for the past 10 months, while scarfing nachos and pizza, doesn't count). Instead I feel a sense of accomplishment. I feel blessed and happy and content this morning. I didn't expect that exciting "fresh start" feeling, but here it is. Forcing me not to reminisce too much about the past, but also holding me back from wondering too much about the future. Perhaps it's a sign that I will finally feel more confident and comfortable in my 30s. That I will find the balance I've been searching for. To be able to live in the moment and enjoy the now. Maybe the next ten years will bring more answers than questions.

Those are my hopes for my 30s, anyway.

I've been admittedly negligent with my Gold Star posts for the past month or so (I blame this manic and merry holiday card season fully for that), but I thought I would check in today to give one big-old-fat Gold Star to my 20s. The decade that launched me from Denison into advertising into owning my own photography business. The years that allowed me and Mike to marry and build our own little family. To buy our first home. To travel the world. To move from Ohio to Michigan and to settle in Chicago, as we always dreamed of doing. What an amazing way to spend 10 years.

Association of Lloyd's Brokers

2011-11-08T13:55:00.000-08:00

I rarely post photos from the corporate events I shoot...but I just couldn't resist sharing this one. Last week I had the pleasure of shooting for Lloyd's again, this time for one of their biggest luncheons of the year at the University Club downtown. Beautiful setting, excellent people.

Avery and Elena

2011-11-07T13:14:00.000-08:00

It was a beautiful afternoon last Tuesday when I met up with Avery and Elena and their parents, Alexis and Jeff, for some fun in Lincoln Park. The girls had a blast playing hide and seek and racing with me. We checked out some pretty cool colored leaves and my favorite view of the city from the Nature Walk bridge. Then we wrapped up our time together on the carousel. I really enjoyed meeting your beautiful family, Alexis and Jeff. Thanks for a great time!

Alex and Julia

2011-11-05T19:58:00.000-07:00

How cute is this brother and sister duo? It didn't take much to get Alex to mug for my camera, and, as you can see, he has such a great smile. And Julia...what can I say? So cuddley and adorable. It was wonderful to meet you, Kim and Hans.

Emma

2011-11-05T18:27:00.000-07:00

I had the best time last Saturday afternoon getting to know Emma and her parents Monica and Kelly in Lincoln Park. Emma had some oh-so-serious looks to give me as the rest of us cooed over how adorable she looked in her fun hats and headbands. Thanks for a great time!

Leena and Caleb are having a baby

2011-11-04T21:16:00.000-07:00

I had such a nice time with Leena and Caleb last Saturday morning in Millennium Park. It is an special time in their lives, as they await the birth of their first child, and I was thrilled to capture their excitement. It was great getting to know you both and I can't wait to hear the wonderful news early next year!

Mason

2011-11-02T20:23:00.000-07:00

Mason's life is about to change. A move to Columbus, Ohio (Go Bucks!) and a new baby sibling on the way. Those are some exciting plans! In the meantime, we had a great time hanging out in Lincoln Park last Friday. Mason's such a cutie and even humored us by wearing an adorable hat for a few shots. It was nice meeting you, Matt and Elizabeth! Best of luck with everything.

Addie, Kacie and JJ

2011-11-02T11:37:00.000-07:00

Molly had big plans for our session last Friday. She had a vision for a portrait of each of the kids to print on canvases and hang up her staircase, a Christmas card photo of the three kids together, and a portrait with her parents, who were in town visiting. Luckily, Addie, Kacie and JJ were up to the task. They did a great job smiling and being natural in front of the camera. We had a blast! Thanks for having me over, Molly!

Alexis!

2011-11-02T08:52:00.000-07:00

Latasha was just having one of those days last Wednesday. Nothing was going quite right. And to top it all off...it was COLD. I mean...a true wintery blast. But that wasn't going to stop little Alexis from having a great time posing in Lincoln Park! I seriously can't get enough of this little doll baby. It's impossible not to smile when Alexis does. She was her mom's ray of sunshine on this otherwise cloudy day. It was great seeing you again, Latasha! Hope the rest of your day got better.

Lauren and Shaun's Wedding

2011-11-02T07:57:00.000-07:00

It was my last wedding of the 2011 season and I couldn't have thought of a better one to end with. On October 15th, I had the pleasure of second shooting Lauren and Shaun's wedding with my friend Victoria Sprung. It was a beautiful day, starting with a touching ceremony at St. Edmund's Parish in Oak Park and ending with some gorgeous fall foliage and an absolutely stunning reception at the Hyatt Lodge. Congratulations Lauren and Shaun! It was an honor to be a part of your wedding day.

Evelyn and Cecilia

2011-10-31T16:22:00.000-07:00

I walked through the door and was instantly transformed into Evelyn's new best friend. We chatted about her cat, about her new baby sister, I helped her put her sneakers on so we could run around outside together and she showed me her favorite toys. You know...all kinds of BFF stuff. These two little sisters kept me smiling through the entire session. Evelyn was so sweet with baby Cecilia, and Cici just took the whole thing in with her big, beautiful eyes. It was nice meeting you and the girls, Kristina!

Grace

2011-10-30T11:50:00.000-07:00

It was so good to see our little friend, Grace, again last Sunday afternoon. Look at how big she's getting! She had a great time showing off her new walking skills, riding on her lady bug toy and playing around with her mom and dad in Wicker Park. Nice seeing you again, Loralynne and Sam! Enjoy the rest of the fall.

Meet Jack

2011-10-29T20:38:00.000-07:00

"Well, this is already going better than our wedding photos!" exclaimed Kelly, about 20 minutes into our family session last Sunday. Mike and I asked what she meant and were shocked and appalled by her answer. It seems Kelly and Sean's wedding photographer absconded with their money and never provided them with a single photo from their big day! Speechless. Treasuring the sentimental value of photos as we do, we couldn't even imagine that terrible situation. So, although we couldn't make up for that rotten experience completely, we did want to provide Kelly and Sean with some fun, memorable family photos. Baby Jack made our job easy with his adorable smiles and willing attitude. We loved getting to know your beautiful family, Kelly and Sean! We hope these photos will bring you much joy.

The Great Naperville Adventure Part One

2011-10-27T08:12:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday afternoon, Mike and I enjoyed another awesome adventure in Naperville. With the help of Norah and Megan, sister-in-laws extraordinaries, I was able to schedule their family sessions back-to-back with a (very!) quick extended family shoot in between. The weather was beautiful and we had a great time with everyone. We started off the day with Norah and Jim's family. Their four kids, Mairead, Cullen, Shane and Jimmy, did an amazing job mugging for our cameras. They smiled and laughed, hugged and cuddled. Loved every second. It was so nice meeting you guys! Thanks for a fantastic time.

Ronan, Lachlan and Co.

2011-10-27T08:12:00.000-07:00

For the second part of our Naperville adventure last Saturday afternoon, Norah, Jim, Mairead, Cullen, Shane, Jimmy, Mike and I met up with the rest of the family down at the Riverwalk. Joining us were Megan, Sachin and their two little ones, Ronan and Lachlan, Grandma and Grandpa P., and Megan and Jim's brother, Jack and his new fiance, Amanda. Phew! We started with a few fun group shots, then split off with Megan, Sachin, Ronan and Lachlan for their individual family session. We had a blast trying to wrangle these two little ones! They are so active and smiley and cute. The light was gorgeous at this time of day and so was the park with all of the colored leaves. We loved seeing you again, Megan and Sachin, and really enjoyed meeting more of your family! Thanks for helping to organize two amazing sessions.

Tyler and Ben

2011-10-25T16:04:00.000-07:00

It has been such a joy to watch this family grow over the years. We first met Tyler when he was even younger than his baby brother Ben and it's been the biggest thrill to watch as he learned to walk and talk. Now we get to watch Ben go through the same motions. It was great seeing you and the boys again, Laura and Andy!

Linden and Hadley: dressed to impress

2011-10-25T05:54:00.000-07:00

Love these girls! Linden and Hadley were dressed in their holiday best and ready to smile last Saturday morning. Mike and I had a great time running around with Linden and making little Hadley giggle. It was so nice catching up with you, Peter and Lynsey!

Connor and Delaney

2011-10-24T15:07:00.000-07:00

This family's had a rough summer. Connor spent all of it in a body cast after having broken his leg while playing on a slip-n-slide. He's only been out of the cast for a few weeks and, holy cow...my heart stopped every time he started to run and play. I can only imagine what Stephanie and Sean are going through! We had a great time shooting around Recreation Drive last Friday. The weather was beautiful, Delaney had a ton of smiles for me and even Annakin the family cat made a good natured appearance. It was great seeing you again, Stephanie, Sean, Connor, Delaney and Annakin! Here's to a healthy, happy, RELAXING rest of the year for you!

Ori

2011-10-20T14:11:00.000-07:00

I always knew that Judith was a great planner...a client after my own heart. So I don't know why I was surprised and relieved last Sunday when her awesome foresight saved the day. It was pouring and gloomy, but we had already secured a permit to shoot in the Lincoln Park Conservatory. It provided a really great, relatively dry, backdrop for little Ori's photos. Look how big he's getting! And so daper in his bow tie. When the rain eventually stopped, we snuck outside for a few photos at the Lily Pond. It was so great to see you three again, John, Judith and Ori!

Elise, Lucas and Winnie The Pooh

2011-10-19T12:03:00.000-07:00

If Heather and Ben ever wondered what it would be like to have three kids, they know now. Elise's favorite stuffie, Pooh Bear, due to his appearance at every major family event, is now an official member of the family. Too funny! Seems like it was only yesterday that Becky and I upgraded our favorite toys to family member status. (Only, in our case, our parents were stuck with "so ugly they're cute" troll dolls. Be glad yours is soft and cuddle and timeless, Ben and Heather!) I can't get over how fast Elise and Lucas are growing up. We had a great time last Friday morning, enjoying the crisp fall weather. It was great seeing you all again...even Pooh!

Liz and Tony get married

2011-10-19T07:24:00.000-07:00

On September 23, I had the pleasure of second shooting Elizabeth and Tony's wedding with my good friend and colleague Victoria Sprung. Liz did a great job with every single detail, from her vintage look to her beautiful blinged out bouquets to a reception filled with the things she and Tony loved the most: wine, family, friends, memories and laughter. Thank you for having me be a part of your big day, Liz and Tony!

Bastian

2011-10-18T05:57:00.000-07:00

Meet my new buddy, Bastian. His mom, Melissa, warned me before our shoot that Bastian was a very active 2-year-old and all boy. Man, she wasn't kidding! We had a great time racing around Lincoln Park...exploring the gardens, playing in the leaves, running and jumping and climbing trees. Bastian's best canine buddy, Huck, was a great sport, too, mugging for the camera like a champ. Thanks for a great time, Melissa! It was so nice meeting you three.

Cole and CJ

2011-10-17T13:51:00.000-07:00

It was an amazing fall morning last Monday and I had the best time hanging out with Cole and CJ at the Ohio Street Beach. The leaves were at their prettiest and the setting was just what Laura had in mind for these family photos. It was so great meeting you, Laura and Steve! Thanks for spending the morning with me.

Family Ties

2011-10-14T13:00:00.000-07:00

Nicole's brother, Luke, who's a pilot in the Navy, was in town on leave last week, so she and her mom thought this would be the perfect time to get everyone together for photos. And, man, was it ever. The weather couldn't have been more beautiful or the setting, out at Gilson Beach and park in Wilmette, any prettier. Mike and I couldn't believe how big our friend, Maggie, had grown since we first met her in May. And John gave us some amazing smiles as we ran around the park and the beach together. Thanks for letting us be a part of your family reunion Nicole, Joe, Will, Marsha, Luke, John and Maggie! It was great getting to know the rest of the family.

Ella and Jake

2011-10-13T16:37:00.000-07:00

It was time again to see one of our favorite dymanic duos, Jake and Ella. Sunday was our holiday card session, and although the leaves were cooperating and had changed to lovely shades of yellows, reds and oranges...temperture wise, it was definitely somewhere around the mid 80s. Jake and Ella were troupers in their little sweaters and sport vests. We had a blast wandering around Montrose Harbor. It was great catching up with you, Matt and Krisha! Hope you enjoyed the rest of your Sunday!

Jack

2011-10-12T19:41:00.000-07:00

Jack was one week old the last time I saw him. Just a little peanut in a tiny polo shirt and khakis. Last Friday afternoon I was tickled to find that he had magically morphed into a 1-year-old, rocking a tie and a huge smile. (That little tie might be my favorite thing in the universe!) Friday was Jack's actual big day, too, and his first time at the Lincoln Park Zoo. What a fun time! It was so great to see you again, Lisa and John! Hope Jack's first birthday celebration was a fantastic one. Thanks for letting me be a part of it.

Jayhan and Layleh

2011-10-12T07:39:00.000-07:00

It was the perfect way to kick off the day last Friday: a sunny fall morning in Weisman Park with my new friends Jayhan and Layleh. I don't think this brother and sister duo could get any cuter if they tried. Those curls, those cheeks, those sweet smiles...they had me at hello. I had a blast collecting rocks with Jay and getting Layleh to giggle. It was so nice meeting you, Farah and Praveen! Thanks for a great time.

Jake, Tyler and Ryan

2011-10-11T07:10:00.000-07:00

I wish I had video footage from this session. To show you just how active and fun our games of hide and seek and tag were. So you could hear Tyler and Jake's adorable little voices, "Jen, do you want to see OUR favorite place in the zoo?" It was sheer cuteness overload with these brothers last Thursday in Lincoln Park. Ryan has gotten so big since we first met him in April and I was excited to celebrate Tyler and Jake's fourth birthday with them a few days early and hear all about their plans for an awesome tailgate party. Thanks for a great time, K.C.! It was so much fun seeing you guys again.