Hey, I'm Kara (care-uh)!

Behind the Lens

LET'S CHAT! I'm excited to meet you!

If you give me just a few minutes, chances are we’ll be chatting like old friends. Connection comes easily to me, and I truly believe that meaningful photos start with feeling comfortable and seen. Family photography is about so much more than pretty pictures – it’s about honoring the season you’re in and preserving it with care and a whole lot of heart.

I’m a family photographer and studio owner based in Kankakee, Illinois, serving families throughout Kankakee County, Iroquois County, and Central Illinois.

When I’m not photographing families or editing from my home office, you’ll usually find me soaking up life with my husband Kyle, spoiling our dogs Georgie and Jett, spending time with family, tending to our backyard garden, or unwinding with a good book.

ONCE UPON A TIME

How it all started...

My photography journey began in 2010 when my sister got engaged, and I invested in my very first camera. Photographing her engagement session (my first session!) sparked something in me. I fell in love with documenting the beginning of a family’s story, and I haven’t looked back since.

What started as photographing a little bit of everything quickly grew into a deep love for capturing families just as they are – growing, laughing, playing, and just being themselves.

Over the past 16+ years, my business has grown alongside my life. I’ve photographed hundreds of sessions and weddings, opened a natural light studio, and learned how fleeting these seasons truly are. That experience shapes how I approach every family I photograph today – with patience, heart, and a deep appreciation for the moments that pass all too quickly.

These days, you’ll often find me editing from my pink office chair with two snuggly pups at my feet. Alongside family photography, I also support fellow photographers as a virtual assistant, helping them take things off their plate so they can get back to the work they love most. 

I feel incredibly grateful that I get to spend my days doing the work I love – photographing families, running my studio, and helping others along the way.

a little more about me

take a look at my life behind-the-scenes!

01

My husband, Kyle, and I are high school sweethearts - heart eyes!

02

I photographed my first session in 2010 and my first wedding in 2011.

03

I’m obsessed with our puppies, Georgie and Jett.

04

Gardening has become one of my favorite hobbies. Gimme all the fresh veggies, especially garden tomatoes!

05

I’m Auntie Kara to seven nieces and nephews – a role I treasure.

06

I could spell Czechoslovakia at a very young age. Thanks, Grandma!

07

Reading fills my cup – my goal is to read 50 books this year!

DID WE JUST BECOME FRIENDS?!

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Family photographer & photo studio owner based in Kankakee, Illinois

@karaevansphotog