Earlier this month while my husband was at drill weekend for the Illinois Air National Guard, I drove up to Chicago for an engagement session with my sister-in-law Deidre and her fiancé Howard.

The day was absolutely beautiful and made it seem as though spring was near (or even here)! We know that’s not the case in Illinois anymore… There was snow in Chicago just yesterday!

Deidre wanted photos in their Chicago loft for a very relaxed and comfortable setting. The sunlight shining through the windows and atmosphere was really fresh and natural in all of the photos. It was a perfect way to start out the session in their home where they are comfortable – this made for such an easy transition outside into the city.

This session was really fun for me because Deidre and I talk and text often, so I helped her with coordinating outfits and styling the shoot. I absolutely love when clients text me outfit ideas or even come to their sessions with a handful of outfits, layering clothing items, accessories, and shoes! It allows me to guide the session based on a connection between their styles and personalities, our location, and my work and creativity. And I truly love making people feel and look amazing for their sessions by guiding the style because we all know that professional photos can be intimidating!

After photos in the loft, we set out the Shedd Aquarium for Chicago skyline photos and then downtown photos. It was very windy off of the lake, but those photos proved to be very gorgeous with a mix of winter and spring. I absolutely love the feel of the downtown photos as well.

My work is so very personal and important to me because I am telling your story. You are trusting me to tell your story and show your connection. I am an open book, and I want my clients to feel comfortable, at ease, and in the moment. For me, it is all about capturing those intense, playful, romantic, and fun moments within a relationship. It’s all about documenting your connection.

Deidre and Howard – I loved spending the day in Chicago photographing the two of you, and I am thrilled to be photographing your October wedding!