Chicago family photographer for real families doing real life
Because this exact version of your family only exists right now.
Studio and outdoor family portraits in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood
Because this exact version of your family only exists right now.
Studio and outdoor family portraits in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood.
You've Been Meaning to Book Family Photos for Two Years.
We Know.
Life is busy. Someone is always in a weird phase. The toddler just cut their own hair. The dog refuses to cooperate. Your husband keeps saying "sure, whenever you want to do it" which means you are doing all of this yourself.
And in the meantime, the kids keep growing. The baby that fit in your arms is now running away from you at full speed. The phase you thought would last forever was somehow over in a blink.
Here is the truth: there is no perfect time to book family photos. There is only now, and later. And later has a way of turning into never.
Let's do now.
A Chicago Family Photographer Who Actually Gets Your Chaos
I have been photographing Chicago families for 16 years. I have worked with newborns who slept through everything and toddlers who refused to look at the camera for 45 straight minutes. I have photographed families with dogs who stole the show, teenagers who showed up convinced they would hate every photo, and dads not there by choice.
Every single one of them left with photos they loved.
My job is not to line you up and tell you to smile. My job is to pay attention, move fast, create little moments, and catch the real stuff in between. The way your youngest grabs your hand without thinking. The way your oldest makes everyone laugh. The way your family actually looks when they are just being themselves.
That is the photo worth hanging on your wall.
How It Works
1
Reach out
Getting to know each other is a huge part of what makes a great session. It puts everyone at ease and sets us up for success! We will go over your goals for the session, wardrobe and styling, and location ideas to design the perfect session for you.
2
Session
All of the preplanning is done - now relax and let us do what we do best! Fun-filled, happy and carefree, sessions with Michele are anything but stressful. It's your time to love on your family and she will create image magic for you. Enjoy your session and you will marvel at how quick and easy it was - even dad and the kids will have fun!
3
Reveal+Order
This is the best part! 1-2 weeks after your photo session, you’ll come back to the studio to see your edited images. During this appointment we will work together to design something beautiful for your home. From large gallery walls or an album, to simple displays, we will create the perfect artwork for your family. Your complete order will be placed at this meeting, so we highly encourage you to have all decision-makers present.
4
Delivery
In 3-4 weeks your artwork will be ready. We are happy to arrange shipping or delivery and installation for you. Once your portraits are hanging on your wall you can enjoy them for years to come! And that's not all - many of our families visit us year after year to update their gallery walls or album collection with their changing family. We love seeing you each year and watching your family grow.
Studio or Outdoor: You Choose
Studio sessions
My Lakeview studio is designed for real families. Professional lighting, simple + clean backdrops, and a relaxed environment where kids can move around and everyone can settle in. Studio sessions are a great choice year-round, especially for families with very young children or anyone who wants a timeless, classic look.
Outdoor sessions
Chicago is a stunning city with no shortage of incredible backdrops. From Lincoln Park to the lakefront to the tree-lined streets of your own neighborhood, outdoor sessions bring a natural, editorial feel that photographs beautifully. Fall and summer book up fast, so plan ahead.
Chicago Family Portraits: Real Sessions. Real Families.
What Chicago Families Are Saying
What to Expect Investment-Wise
Here is how it works. A $900 booking fee reserves your session date and gets everything started. That booking fee includes your $250 session fee plus a $650 product credit that goes directly toward your wall art, album, or image box order at your appointment.
Most families invest between $1,500+ once they fall in love with their images at the ordering appointment. Which, in 16 years, has been every single family.
Chicago Family Photography: Your Questions Answered
What should we wear for our family photos?
This is one of the most common questions I get, and it is a good one. I send every family a detailed wardrobe guide before their session. The short version: coordinate without matching, choose colors that complement each other, and avoid busy patterns or large logos. When in doubt, send me a photo of what you are thinking and I will weigh in.
How long is a family session?
Most family sessions run about 60 minutes, but l don't limit sessions to a given amount of time. We take the time necessary to get amazing images so you don't feel rushed. Sometimes kids need to time to warm up or to take a break. I also know attention spans are short so I work fast.
What if my kids won't cooperate?
They likely won't cooperate (because they're kid, duh), and the photos always turn out beautiful anyway. In 16 years, I have never had a session ruined by a cranky toddler. I work fast, I keep things fun, and I know how to find the good moments even when everything feels chaotic. The chaos is part of the story.
Do you photograph extended families?
Yes. I photograph immediate families, extended families, multi-generational groups, and everything in between. Just let me know the size of your group when you inquire so we can plan accordingly.
Do you offer outdoor family sessions in Chicago?
Yes. I offer both studio sessions at my Lakeview location and outdoor sessions at a variety of Chicago locations. We will talk through which option is the right fit for your family during our planning conversation.
What happens after our session?
About two weeks after your session, you will come back to the studio for your reveal + order appointment. You will see your images for the first time, choose your favorites, and decide how you want to display them in your home. I will be there to help you through every step of the process.
Do you offer digital files?
Yes, digital files are available. But here is the thing: the real magic happens when your photos are actually on your walls. Every printed product you order comes with the matching digital file included, so you get both. The goal is always to get your images out of your phone and into your life.
How far in advance should I book a family session in Chicago?
Fall is by far the most popular time for family photos in Chicago, and those dates fill up fast, often by midsummer. If you are planning a fall session, I recommend reaching out in June or July. Spring sessions also book quickly. For studio sessions in winter, you typically have a little more flexibility, but I always recommend booking as soon as you know your ideal timeframe.
Let's Make it Official!
Fall books fast, and summer is not far behind. If family photos have been on your list, this is your sign to actually do it.
Chicago family photographer serving Chicago and surrounding neighborhoods including Lakeview, Northcenter, Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, Bucktown, Roscoe Village, Andersonville, Edgewater, Ukrainian Village, West Town, West Loop and beyond.
