Shay Feeney Photography

The Gonnella Family - Sneak Peek

2011-09-27T12:43:00.000-07:00

Most of my clients are in the younger category, so I was not 100% prepared for the energy level of these brothers. They were tons of fun and our session was full of running, wrestling and laughter and I had such a great time photographing them. Thanks for a great time!

Ubersox Family - Sneak Peek

2011-09-26T16:28:00.000-07:00

I had an incredible time with this family. The girls are so much fun and definitely full of energy! I can't wait to send over the full slideshow! Enjoy!

Introducing Little Miss G

2011-06-08T10:43:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago I photographed a very stylin' eight day old. She was born a month early and her parents still found time to shopping for props to use during out photo shoot. She did awesome. She slept through a dog barking, two cats jumping around and us changing her outfits, putting her in flower pots and bowls.

The Lovely Ladies of the Glenn Family

2011-05-18T14:49:00.000-07:00

The beautiful ladies of the Glenn Family recently visited the studio and we had a great time. It was the little one's 6 month birthday, but I loved getting to photograph all of them.

Melanie's Maternity and Introducing Baby J

2011-05-16T10:19:00.000-07:00

Being so far behind on my posting I get use this one for double duty - maternity and newborn. Melanie looked gorgeous during her maternity session here at the studio. And I loved playing around with some different textures. And a couple of weeks ago I got to visit them in their home for Baby J's newborn session. He was a dream to photograph and was so sleepy for the whole session.

Madeline - Chicago Baby Photographer

2011-03-03T11:31:00.000-08:00

One of the sweetest faces ever came to play at the studio. Madeline's rosy cheeks and giggles were so much fun to photograph. This is one of my favorite stages to capture for families. All the fun faces and chubbiness - I have an awesome job!

Thanks for a great session Madeline. Can't wait to see you for your one year!

This is Madeline's way of telling me she is over it.

Luckily, we had lots of fun shots already.

Almost Spring Sale

2011-02-23T12:24:00.000-08:00

Spring is Coming Sale

Spring is coming! Are you as excited as I am? To celebrate I'm offering a sale on digital packages. Book your session to occur before May 1st and you can purchase all the high res digital files from your session for $350, or they are included with orders of $500 or more - that's a $200 savings! Studio, location, maternity, newborn, and family all apply. Contact the studio for session pricing, availability, and full details.

www.shayfeeney.com
312-515-1077
shay@shayfeeney.com

Referral Program Bonus

When you tell your friends about Shay Feeney Photography it's the greatest compliment. As some of you already know, I like to say thanks with a $50 SFP gift card, good towards your next session. To continue to show how much I appreciate my extended SFP family, I recently started the Welcome Program. When new clients mention your name they also receive $50 towards their session. I have the best clients in the world and love growing the SFP family even more!

SFP Gift Certificates

Is a friend expecting? Shay Feeney Photography gift certificates make the perfect baby shower gift. Available in any denomination or can be purchased as a group gift to create a custom package for the mom-to-be. She can use for a maternity or newborn session in the studio or in their home. And, yes, I'm happy to travel outside the city for sessions.

Margaret's Belly Bump - Chicago Maternity Photographer

2011-02-23T07:38:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I had the sweetest family come to the studio. They were expecting their second child, so I loved having a big sister to include in the images. I can't wait to visit them for their newborn session at their house.

Sammy - Chicago Newborn Photographer

2011-02-03T09:24:00.000-08:00

Okay, I'm a little late on getting little Sammy posted. I can't believe I didn't create a post for her earlier. Better late than never with this little sweetie though! She is the niece of our dear friends and I was thrilled to be ask to photograph her when she was just an itty bitty.

Bella - Chicago Pet Photographer

2011-01-18T11:42:00.000-08:00

I don't get a lot of opportunity to photograph canine kids, but I have such a great time when I do. This is Bella and her mom, Laura. Aren't they sweet together? Bella is such a cutie (and check out her her adorable overbite!)

Showering mom with kisses

Bella showing off

NPN Pre-NYE Bash - Chicago Children's Photographer

2011-01-17T10:33:00.000-08:00

I had such a fun time photographing Neighborhood Parents Network's Pre-New Year's Eve Bash this year. It's a family event with lots of activities for different age groups. They did a countdown each hour with 101.9 The Mix with a balloon drop and noisemakers for everyone to enjoy. This year's event was held at Lil' Kicker's.

Here's a little slideshow from the event:

Dancing with Giordano Stars

2011-01-10T07:16:00.001-08:00

This was my third year photographing Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago super fun benefit, a ballroom dance competition, Dancing with the Giordano Stars. This year's event was held at the Park West allowing the dancers to perform on a fully lit stage (making it awesome to photograph as well). As always, everyone did an amazing job!

The Contestants & The Giordano Dancers

Teresa Carso / Robert Mckee
Dirk Degenaars / Lindsey Leduc Brenner
Desiree Denoyer / Zachary Heller
Rob Gallay/ Maeghan McHale
Lisa Huff / Martin Ortiz Tapia
Karl Leinberger / Meredith Schultz
Susan Lichtenstein / Cesar G. Salinas
David Prange / Ashley Lauren Smith
Temple Seigler / Joshua Blake Carter
Max Suzenaar / Lindsey LaFountain

Avery at Olive Park - Chicago Children's Photographer

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

On one of the last warm fall days I got a chance to hang out with the adorable Avery. She needed a little bit of time to ease into the session and then we got to have a lot of fun. I'm guessing her favorite part was at the end when we got into the lake and splashed around.

Our new nieces - Graycin & Reese - Newborn Photographer

2010-12-15T12:28:00.000-08:00

We flew to Denver a few weeks ago to meet our new nieces - Reese and Graycin. My brother-in-law and his wife had identical girls in September. We spent the weekend cooking and taking pictures. Well, J did all the cooking... I tried really hard to tell them apart all weekend, with no luck. Conveniently, they have colored bracelets on to tell them apart for now. At one point we removed both bracelets for the photo shoot. I'm pretty sure we put the bracelets back on correctly :-)

Here are a few of my favorites (yes, I have a lot of favorites) Can't wait to see them when they visit for Christmas in a couple of weeks!

Yes, Graycin, I see you are done with the pictures at this point :-)

Hey, sis, you sleeping?

The V brothers - They look pretty good holding an itty bitty, right?

Mockaitis Family - Chicagoland Family Photographer

2010-12-09T14:58:00.000-08:00

Oh My! I am in LOVE with this session and this family. I was lucky enough to photograph the family for their maternity and newborn session a few years ago when their first was born. But like so many families they packed up and moved to the 'burbs soon after. I am thrilled they asked me to come out this fall to photograph their family including their adorable one year old girl.

Tripp - Chicago Children's Photographer

2010-12-03T06:57:00.000-08:00

On one of the last good days of fall, I had a great session in Olive Park with Tripp and his mom. Tripp is so full of smiles you can't help but have fun playing around with him. They had recently won a session with me from a mom's event and I was so excited I was able to fit them in before the end of the season.

Hey, where you going?

And he's off!

The Ramsey Family - Chicago Family and Children's Photographer

2010-11-12T13:48:00.000-08:00

More super fun fall sessions! I have been having such a great time with all my families this fall and this family is no exception! The first time I photographed them was for J's newborn pictures and now every time I see them I can't believe how big they are getting! We had a great time playing throughout Lincoln Park together and even ended up in the playground at the end.

As always, Ramsey's thanks for a great session!

Always my favorite type of family photo :-)

The Triplets Turn Two!

2010-11-08T09:09:00.000-08:00

Oh my gosh is this family is absolutely ADORABLE (and with happy but exhausted parents!) The boys turned two a few weeks ago and we had a crazy fun session that basically had me running around in three different directions the entire time.

We started the session with the boys breaking into my camera bag
as I was photographing their brother.

What? It wasn't me!

One last glance before they take off for the beach.

And they're off!

One of my new favoritest images!

I fell in love with these cuties during our session!

Thanks for a great session boys!

Callahan's First Photo Shoot - Chicago Newborn Photographer

2010-11-05T10:57:00.000-07:00

Cal's mom told me this week I haven't been updating my blog enough lately. So that was incentive enough to feature her gorgeous little man I had the pleasure to photograph recently. I had so much fun meeting Cal and hanging out with the family. Grandma was there to help rearrange all their furniture and Dad even popped over on his lunch break to get in on the action. They are such a sweet family and I am so happy for them - Congrats!

Loved parts of their home as the background. The colors were so lovely.

Cal is crossing his fingers hoping dad comes home from work to play with him.

Awww, aren't they such a cute family?!

Violet - Chicago Newborn Photographer

2010-10-27T10:59:00.000-07:00

When little Violet came the studio for her newborn session I was in for a special treat. She was a little angel to photograph and gave me lots of smiles! I had a wonderful time and I look forward to watching Violet grow!

The Skipton Family - Chicago Children's Photographer

2010-10-27T09:59:00.000-07:00

I had a chance to meet the Skipton Family while they were visiting from St. Louis. The mom, who used to live in Chicago, was super excited to get to have a beach session for the kids since they don't live near a beach. North Avenue Beach was a perfect setting for them. I had a great time with them and the kids were pretty hard to drag away from playing in the sand after our session.

Kathleen - Chicago Family Photographer

2010-10-27T08:35:00.000-07:00

Recently, I had an wonderful session with Kathleen and her amazing parents. Kathleen is one of the sweetest girls I have ever met and she looked beautiful throughout our whole session. She has all this gorgeous hair that was blowing perfectly in the lakefront wind.

I can't wait to hang out with Kathleen again soon!

Halloween Costume Party & Pictures

2010-10-26T16:17:00.002-07:00

Join us this Saturday morning at Flourish Studio for a Halloween party, treats, costume pictures and a book signing.

Details
10 a.m. - noon
Flourish Studios
3020 N. Lincoln
$10 includes a digital image

Kristina & Kevin are Married! - Chicagoland Wedding Photographer

2010-09-27T15:07:00.000-07:00

Kristina & Kevin had an amazing wedding. The day started with a little rain (okay it was a downpour), but the weather cleared up long enough to take a lot of fun pictures outside as the cocktail hour got started. The ceremony was at a gorgeous Croatian Catholic Church - St. Jerome and the reception was at Silver Lake Country Club. The entire wedding party was so much fun to photograph all day. Everyone had such a great time, especially me!

Kauai, Hawaii

2010-09-01T08:56:00.000-07:00

We had a beautiful trip to Kauai a few months ago, a pre-honeymoon for us. We knew I would never have time to get away in the summer after the wedding, so we decided to take a pre-honeymoon. That's just how we roll.... It was an awesome trip and an worked out great. We were completely able to enjoy planning the trip without all the wedding stress getting in the way and fell in love with the island when we were there. Here's a few images I thought I would share.

The sunrises were stunning. Thanks to the time difference we were up every morning to walk down the beach and enjoy the sunrises (and our coffee :-)

The view off our balcony was fabulous. Palm trees in the wind, ocean waves crashing - we LOVED our hotel and highly recommend Koa Kea to anyone staying on the island.

How I got talked into this I have no idea. Adrenaline junkie I am NOT. This picture is definitely of J, my hands were gripping the instructors seat in front of me the entire time, not casually steering the wings of death (or birds of paradise as they are more widely known).

But, I survived...

Everything was postcard perfect there!

J has definitely perfected the arm out to take pictures of us

Kristin and Tom are Married! - Chicagoland Wedding Photographer

2010-09-01T08:16:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am extremely behind on updating all the fun stuff I've been working on. So I will have lots a new stuff to post in the coming weeks.

Over Memorial Day weekend (yes, back that far), Kristin and Tom had a beautiful wedding day and I was honored to photograph their extremely special day. And a special thanks to Robyn Martin for taking lots of great shots throughout the day as my second photographer.

Congrats to Kristin and Tom!

Baby Henry - Chicago Newborn Photographer

2010-06-05T11:03:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago our close friends welcomed Baby Henry into their family. I was honored to be invited over to photograph him for his first big photo shoot. Don't get me wrong - Dad and Aunt Sally had already taken lots of pictures of the little man already, but I was thrilled to get to capture the new family and all their lovingness together.

Congrats to Aimee and Ryan! Baby Henry is a beautiful new addition to the crew.

Flourish Mother/Daughter Event - Chicago Family Photography

2010-05-24T12:19:00.001-07:00

In honor of Mother's Day, I had the pleasure of being part of Flourish Studios Mother/Daughter Fun Day. Crafts were provided by Caravan Beads and Sweet 'n Sassy was in full force with updo's for the little ladies.

And I was lucky enough to photograph all the beautiful Mothers and Daughters and capture their special day together. We had so much fun and there were lots of hugs, kisses and giggles! It definitely made me go home and call my mom to tell her that I love her.

Kristina & Kevin - Chicago Wedding Photographer

2010-05-17T12:34:00.000-07:00

Okay, now I am ridiculously behind keeping up with my blog posts. But, I had such a great time with Kevin and Kristina I had to make sure I shared some pictures before they get married next month. We did a picnic theme for the engagement session and Kristina brought the cutest props to lay out. They were definitely troupers getting through the session because it was absolutely freezing out. Luckily they laugh and giggle so much together I couldn't help but have a fabulous time along with them.

Kristina and Kevin, you guys are such a beautiful couple and I am super excited for your wedding in a few weeks.

Little Man Brave - Chicago Children's Photography

2010-03-23T13:09:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am super behind on my blog posts and I have lots to share with you in the coming weeks. Recently, I got to spend a crazy fun morning with this little guy. He was amazing! Laughing and smiling the whole time. I fell in love with his huge smile and adorable personality.

ADL's Rising Stars Awards Luncheon

2010-03-04T14:03:00.000-08:00

For the second year, it was a privilege to photograph Anti-Defamation League's annual Rising Stars Awards Luncheon honoring inspiring women under 40.

(Left to right Nicole, Loftus, Ivy Walker, Arin Reeves, Lindsay Avner)

Lindsay Avner, Founder & Executive Director, Bright Pink
Ms. Avner has created the only national non-profit organization with an exclusive focus on the prevention and early detection of breast and ovarian cancer in high-risk young women.

Arin Reeves, Founder & President, The Athens Group
Ms. Reeves is founder and president of the premier consulting firm specializing in diversity strategies for the legal profession.

Ivy Walker, CEO, World Health Imaging Alliance
Ms. Walker's leads the effort to help deploy sustainable imaging and telemedicine solutions in resource poor areas worldwide.

Nicole Loftus, Founder & CEO, Zorch International
Ms. Loftus has worked with Mayor Daley and the Chicago Public Schools to assist high school students in finding their entrepreneurial spirit.

Karen Jordan, ABC7 News was the event's Emcee

Betsy & Tim: Chicago Wedding Photographer

2010-01-19T16:51:00.000-08:00

Betsy and Tim had a beautiful wedding right before Christmas at the Violet Hour in Chicago. Although it was a chilly day, the event was warm and toasty with all of their loved ones around them. I was honored to be included in their inner circle for the day (and enjoy one of the amazing cocktails with them at the end).

Betsy had the most amazing blue Manolo's as her shoes-fun and super sexy!

Seriously, yummy cocktails!

Shay Feeney Photography in The Bump

2010-01-08T08:06:00.000-08:00

The latest edition of The Bump, was released this month. The Bump is a great pregnancy and baby resource from the Knot. Check it out for cool nursery ideas, top strollers, and lots of must-have pregnancy information. We have additional copies here at the studio, if anyone would like one. And, you can find us on page 29!

Welcoming Jude & Beck - Chicagoland Newborn Photographer

2010-01-02T11:14:00.000-08:00

Recently, my dear friends welcomed Jude and Beck into their family. I was lucky enough to visit them a few days after they got home from the hospital for their first photo shoot. They were completely adorable and I fell in love immediately. Here are a few of my favorites from the session.

Olivia - 3 Months - Chicago Children's Photographer

2009-12-14T14:31:00.000-08:00

Olivia and her mom came to my studio a few weeks ago and I had so much fun capturing all of her different expressions. Seriously, how cute is she?!

Maria's First Birthday - Chicago Children's Photographer

2009-12-09T12:27:00.000-08:00

I was so excited to spend the afternoon with little Maria for her first birthday session. The weather was perfect and Lincoln Park and the Lily Pond were filled with gorgeous fall color. Maria is such a cutie and I love it when they have their two little bottom teeth - so precious!

The Schwan Family - Chicago Family Photographer

2009-11-30T07:16:00.000-08:00

With two adorable and super active boys I knew my session with the Schwan Family was going to be fun. Most of the leaves had fallen around the city by now, but we lucked out that day. We had a leaf fight in Millennium Park, football and kite flying in Grant Park, and bubbles at the lakefront. I think we all needed a nap after our afternoon together. Here are a few of my favorite images from the day.

The Schwartz Family - Chicago Family Photographer

2009-11-19T11:45:00.000-08:00

Olive Park was the perfect location to photograph the Schwartz Family. It was a gorgeous combination of the lovely fall colors and lakefront.

Emerson Welcomes Sister Tessa - Chicago Children's and Newborn Photographer

2009-11-12T16:06:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I had a chance to meet two completely adorable girls. Emerson and Tessa were a dream to photograph - they were both so sweet!

The Adorable Sienna - Chicago Children's Photographer

2009-11-03T11:29:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, I had the chance to meet the super adorable Sienna. I had a fabulous time running around Lincoln Park with her and her gorgeous parents.

Chrissy & Aaron are Married! - Chicago Wedding Photographer

2009-10-31T07:57:00.001-07:00

Last Friday I had truly incredible time with Chrissy, Aaron and their loved ones. There were tears and laughter all day long and I felt honored to be a part of their special day. An extra thanks to Deanna Mandarino for second shooting with me.

It was so easy to capture Chrissy's gorgeous smile throughout the day.

Luckily, they didn't let a bit of rain put a damper on the day!

Sexy wedding party!

They were cracking each other up all day.

Deanna caught this moment as Chrissy and Aaron realized they couldn't cut into their cake.

To watch the slideshow:

New Holiday Cards

2009-10-21T12:17:00.000-07:00

New Designs and Special Pricing!

If you are on our mailing list, you probably already received our newsletter showcasing the new holiday card designs. I wanted to make sure everyone got a chance to check out the fun designs that offer multiple images per card - because we know how hard it is to narrow down to just ONE picture to share with all of your friends and family for your annual holiday card.

Below are a few samples of the new designs and you can customize most all of the greetings. All designs are 5x7 folded notecards with multiple images.

Use the fabulous images at sessions you've already had this year, or call now to book a session using the gorgeous fall colors outside. Dates are filling fast, so be sure to schedule soon.

To view more designs and pricing information, visit:
www.shayfeeney.com/slideshow/Holiday_Cards_2009

Dancing with the Giordano Stars

2009-10-07T15:37:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago I had the opportunity photograph a fabulous event for the Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago. Dancing with Giordano Stars is a benefit Ballroom Dance competition with GJDC company dancers and their partners from Chicago’s Who’s Who. Congrats to all the participants - they all did an amazing job!

One Step Camp Video

2009-09-10T19:07:00.000-07:00

Over the last few weeks I had the privilege of being part of a short video created for Children's Oncology Services One Step Camp program for their awareness and fundraising efforts. It was an amazing experience that introduced to me a Julie Campbell, a super talented young musician, and I can't wait to hear more work from her.

Special thanks to CPE Sound for a fabulous job with Julie in the studio and to Sally Films for putting it all together.

Matt Kissane

2009-09-07T10:01:00.000-07:00

Last week, I spent a somewhat rainy, but awesome afternoon with Matt Kissane for his new headshots. We had a blast walking around Dominican's campus for some cool outdoor shots. Matt is a fabulous comedian that I got to work with last year for a green screen event and he was Jake Blues. If you ever need a comedian for an event or a children's party-definitely check him out: www.mattkissane.com.

This is a picture from the event I worked with Matt. It was for an Event Gallery green screen event and it was a blast!

Chrissy & Aaron are Engaged! - Chicago Wedding Photographer

2009-08-30T10:57:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I had an awesome time with Chrissy and Aaron at their engagement session at Chicago's museum campus. They are big Bears fans so we started by Soldier Field and made our way around the area. They are are completely hysterical and kept laughing through the session, which cracked me up the whole time. I gotta give props to Aaron for showing off his inner fierceness that he practiced all week thanks to Tyra! I loved it. I think all the guys should watch the show before their session.

Thanks guys, I had a blast - and I can't wait for the wedding this fall!

Julie's Recording Session at CPE Sound

2009-08-25T12:29:00.001-07:00

Yesterday we recorded One Step Camper Julie singing Over the Rainbow on her ukulele for a video we are making for One Step and it was AMAZING! She is going to be an incredible performer as she gets older! A HUGE thanks to Tom and Jim at CPE Sound for helping us record Julie for the video. I can't wait to hear the final version.

After the recording session we took Julie to a nearby park to capture some additional footage.

Allegro Music and Dance Academy

2009-08-19T10:41:00.000-07:00

This season I again had the pleasure of photographing the Allegro Music and Dance Academy for their recital. I always have so much fun that day -the dancers and their costumes are always fabulous! They have locations in Lockport, Lemont and Bolingbrook and I encourage you to check them out if you live in the area.

Lola's First Birthday - Smash the Cake - Chicago Children's Photographer

2009-08-10T17:55:00.000-07:00

I had the most adorable little girl at my studio for her first birthday session and I asked her parents if we could include a smash the cake session. Jay and Jenna were more than happy to oblige so I was super excited.

Jenna brought a wonderful cake from Delish by Nikki Kuska (njentel@yahoo.com) and a fun party hat for us to use. Lola is such a delight and got the biggest kick out of my lens cap (Note to moms: extremely cheap way to entertain a little one :-)

Light the Night - Chicago and North Shore Kickoffs

2009-08-02T16:37:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago I had the honor of photographing the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's annual Light the Night Kickoff for both the Chicago and North Shore walks. I took pictures for walker's fundraising pages and participants listened to motivating and inspiring stories from this year's honored heroes and other walkers. They also offered great fundraising ideas and supplies.

This year's dates are:
Chicago: September 26th
Western Suburbs: September 12th
North Shore: October 11th

To learn more, register to walk, volunteer, or donate visit:
www.lightthenight.org/

Miriam was one of the Honored Heroes of the night. She and her husband Hal eached shared their touching and inspiring story of her battle with CLL over the last 12 years.

Peyton is Chicago's other Honored Hero. Battling ALL since she was 6 months old, she is getting stronger every day.

Some people shared their personal stories or fundraising ideas.

Jory is North Shore's Honored Hero. After an initial misdiagnosis, he went through a different regimen and has been in remission since 2003.

Urban Teen Session

2009-07-29T13:13:00.000-07:00

Most of my clients tend to be itty bittys so, I was super excited when had a chance to spend a couple of hours photographing friends Dakota and Michael in some industrial areas around Chicago. They did a great job even though the preferred to be skateboarding the whole time. (which they are awesome at, btw). Thanks guys!

One Step Camp in Lake Geneva

2009-07-16T11:18:00.000-07:00

Last Monday I had the privilege of spending a day at One Step Camp in Lake Geneva. It's a two week summer camp for kids with or in remission from cancer through Children's Oncology Services here in Chicago. It's an amazing experience that leaves you inspired by the courage of these campers.

If you would like to learn more about the incredible programs sponsored by COS or to make a donation, visit onestepcamp.org.

The afternoon started with a water balloon toss and turned into a huge water fight.

The water fight lasted a few hours. My camera barely escaped without being drenched.

To view a slideshow from the day:

The Mitchell Family - Chicago Newborn Photographer

2009-06-23T14:41:00.001-07:00

Last week I got to see an old college friend and photograph her gorgeous family. Baby Jesse had joined the Mitchell family just six days before and was such a little peanut! I had such an awesome time with everyone and it was great to see Nicole. And seriously, six days after delivering your third child she looked amazing!

Congrats Nicole and Mark! And since this is your third boy I wish you all the energy you will need to keep up with your amazing boys.

Theo's Session on Chicago's Lakefront - Chicago Children's Photographer

2009-06-18T11:04:00.000-07:00

Last week I spent a late afternoon running around the museum campus in Chicago with little man Theo. He is crazy fun to hang out with and is so easy to photograph. It's so much fun having him show me his latest dance moves, his downward dog yoga moves, making rolling eyes imitating dad and have him cuddle with his parents for our pictures.

Theo was ALL about the Shedd. He and mom had just gone to the Oceanarium the week before and now he really wanted to show dad while we where there. It took a bit to prove it had closed and we couldn't get in.

While we were chatting, Theo showed me his impersonation of dad when he gets mad.....
....Coincidentally, this is the infamous look I capture of mom each photo shoot as well......
(fyi, this is Theo showing me some more dance moves, hence the eye rolling by Ann)

Thanks for a great session Theo, Ann Marie & Chris!

Cael Turns One! - Chicago Baby Photographer

2009-06-10T10:08:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago I had an awesome time with Cael for his one year session with his mom and grandmother in Oz Park. Cael is such a happy little guy and is such a pleasure to photograph. And I just love hanging out with his whole family.

Cael's first experience with feeling grass on his skin.
These moments make my heart melt when I get to photograph them.

How big is Cael? Sooo big!

This is about the time Cael was getting over the whole photography thing.

Luckily a ride from Grandma makes it all better.

Happy Anniversary Joe and Ellen

2009-05-28T14:05:00.000-07:00

This weekend is the first anniversary for an amazingly sweet couple! Joe and Ellen got married last year at Brookfield Zoo and they were so loving and affectionate - Joe pretty much wouldn't stop holding Ellen's hands the entire day. I was so happy to be a part of their special day.

Ellen and Joe,
I hope you had a wonderful first year and many more to come!

Everett & Christina

2009-05-15T18:32:00.000-07:00

I was super excited for Everett's wedding last weekend. It was a gorgeous ceremony overlooking Lake Sara in Effingham, IL. Christina is so lovely and I was able to be a relaxed guest instead of running around as the photographer. Of course, I couldn't help taking a few pictures, especially with Jeano as the best man.

Congratulations Christina and Everett! I hope you are having a fabulous time in South Africa.

A very handsome pair of brothers.

Their aunt, Reverend Sally Irberg officiated the ceremony.
Jeano was very nervous about losing the rings he put on his little finger. He held on to them the whole ceremony :-)

Mother Tongues - A Columbia College Thesis Dance Perfomance

2009-05-08T05:48:00.000-07:00

I recently had the opportunity to photograph Erin Rehberg's Columbia College Chicago thesis project. It was a gorgeous performance that featured Erin Rehberg, Melanie Palmer, Christina, Biele & Megan Beseth. You can learn more about their upcoming performances by visiting Core Project's website at www.coreprojectchicago.org.

First Steps! - Chicago Baby Photographer

2009-04-21T05:43:00.000-07:00

Last week I had an awesome session with Owen for his 1-year pictures. We decided to meet at Montrose Harbor and although it was a little chilly we had a great time. And my absolute favorite part was capturing Owen's first steps on camera - it was so exciting!

Happy First Birthday Owen!

This was also Owen's first experience with sand. He was so enraptured with it. This was about 2 seconds before he put that fistful of sand in his mouth.

A gorgeous blue eyed beauty.

Owen's first steps ever!

Owen was so proud of himself! I'm sure Dad's cheering gave Owen a hint he was doing well.

The Ziegler Family - Chicago Children's Photographer

2009-04-07T10:07:00.000-07:00

I am not sure how the Ziegler Family wasn't posted before now, but here they are! They were one of my last families I was able to photograph outdoors before the Chicago winter kicked in at the end of last year. Lisa recently joined Facebook inspiring me to upload some fun pictures from our session for her and it reminded me that we didn't have a post here either.

Zach is a total blast to hang out. And even though he tried with all his might not to look at me when I had my camera up that day, he did a great job.

Emily & Deanna

2009-03-30T12:20:00.000-07:00

Last week I spent a fun (albeit) cold day taking portraits with two photographer friends: Emily DeWan and Deanna Mandarino. We had a great time using the alleys and bright painted walls in the neighborhood. There was definitely a lot of giggling since we tend to be more comfortable taking pictures over being in them :-)

Tahirih & Andy

2009-03-16T12:58:00.000-07:00

TEA and Andy were married on Halloween last year at A New Leaf in Old Town. (Yes, I am very behind on all of my postings.) I was so worried that they were having a garden ceremony that late in the year, but it was an absolutely gorgeous day. I loved that they were getting married exactly how they wanted to. TEA had this lovely dress that wasn't your traditional white gown and they walked each other down the aisle. Their love and happiness just shines through them! They are just the cutest couple ever and I had a blast with them and all of their loved ones.

Check out TEA's awesome shoes. She was such a cool bride :-)

They had these awesome cake toppers to honor Halloween, but only the little ones came in their costumes.

Everyone was having such a good time together...

One adorably happy couple.

The Finnane Family - Chicago Baby Photographer

2009-02-14T08:19:00.000-08:00

What a fabulous time I had with the gorgeous Finnane's. How adorable is this little man? Cael is so full of personality already and was so much fun to photograph with mom and dad. Sarah, Jay and Cael - thanks for allowing me to capture all your love - you are such a lovely family.

Chris, Ann Marie & Theo

2009-01-28T15:05:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite families. Theo is such a sweetheart! I have photographed them for a couple of years and these images are a combination of a few sessions we have had together. I thought it would be fun to see how much Theo has grown into a little man now.

Kelly & Greg

2009-01-20T05:59:00.000-08:00

Kelly & Greg were married in October and had a completely fabulous ceremony and reception. I had such a wonderful time with them and all their guests. Congratulations to you both!