Hitting a bump in the road about what to do for your baby’s first birthday cake smash session? Take a look at the image above for a few ideas, and if you need some more help search Google, Pinterest, and Instagram for some cool set ups. You can keep things really simple with just a number balloon, or do a few balloons and some props, do a balloon garland with themed balloons and props, stick to just props, do something cute outside, or use a tent, or do a balloon garland with a one balloon or garland. These are just a few ideas! Some parents even go all out and do an outfit that’s made for their theme too. It’s up to you on how you want things to look for your LO’s big day. Also, don’t forget that whatever you choose, the cake will go with the theme. It could be as simple as a similar color, or as elaborate as a unicorn cake. Just know if you still need some help, contact us and we’ll be happy to share a few more ideas.
Welcome Back Chicago!- Chicago Event Photographers
Chicago has officially opened back up, and you’re looking to start planning your big events for your kids. So come on by to add a photographer to your event. We would be ecstatic to capture the big day- whether that be a shower, baptism, birthday party, or other get together. Our event photography is on a by case basis- contact us with event details and we can work with you to figure out what you need and pricing. We hope to see you soon!
Wild One!- Chicago Cake Smash
Celebrate your LO’s first birthday with a cake smash! A cake smash is a great alternative to regular one year old photos- it’s a lot more fun as your LO gets a special set just for them and a cake to smash. It also makes for some great memories and even some laughs! We offer a few different packages for our cake smashes; we can help you pick out the best option. You will be able to pick out a theme for the photoshoot and the cake and set will follow that. After the session is complete and photos are edited, you will have access to a personalized photo gallery with high resolution images for download and purchase. For more information, click here. Or contact us to set up your appointment or with any questions.
Time to Celebrate the First Year!- Chicago First Birthday Cake Smash Photography
It’s that time for your LO to turn one! Make it extra special by planning a cake smash! Create adorable and fun moments on a cute birthday set up made just for your LO, and let them smash away at their birthday cake! Our team works with you to pick out the perfect option for you and your family. We love making your set look amazing, as well as taking breathtaking photos of your birthday boy or girl! For more information check out our cake smash page here. Contact us with any questions and to set up your photo session.
Happy Birthday Little One!- Chicago First Birthday Cake Smash Photography
Looking to celebrate your LO’s first birthday? Do it with a bang! Or in this case, a cake smash! Cake smashes are an adorable way to do something big, fun, and memorable for this milestone birthday. We offer a few different package options, so you can choose the one that works for you and your family. You can expect a cute birthday set up, a cake to smash, and an online gallery of your high resolution photos once they’re available. For more information, click here, or contact us with any questions.
Oh Baby!- Chicago Newborn Photographer
Your little one is all settled in, and now you can’t wait to show them off to the world! We have you covered with our loving newborn sessions. Instead of complicated posing and props, we focus on your bundle of joy and family. Keep things simple and sweet here at our studio, or let us come to you to capture everyone in their natural setting- at home, in the crib, together on the couch, with your furry family member, etc. We want everyone to feel comfortable while we capture your sweet moments! Contact us to set up your appointment, or click here for some more information.
Mother's Day Idea- Chicago Family Photography
Let mom feel extra loved by giving her an amazing Mother's Day photoshoot with the family! Grab some cute pictures of her and the kids, by herself, with dad, or even with grandma and grandpa too. Don't forget nice weather means outdoor sessions are possible too! Click here for details about our session options or contact us for more information.
Make a Special Birthday a Little Sweeter- Chicago Photographer
Got a special birthday coming up? Put the icing on the cake with a fun birthday shoot! Whether it's a 5th, 10th, 16th, or 18th birthday we'll help to make it extra amazing. Dress up, bring friends, stay in the studio, or have some fun outside, it's up to you. Contact us for more information and with any questions!
First Birthday Ready!- Chicago Cake Smash
So you decided to do first birthday photos of your little one. How about turning your photo session into a cake smash! Your little one will have an adorable session with a yummy cake to smash and a cute birthday set to match! If you are looking for a complete cuteness overload, you could even find an outfit that matches the theme you chose for the photos- like irresistible Mr. Onederful above. For more information about our cake smashes, click here. Otherwise, contact us with any questions!
Chicago Cake Smash!
Our cake smash sessions are our most popular photography packages. Our 30 minute session includes a cake to smash, a cute themed set, and an online gallery for your photos once they are ready! We have options for longer shoots, additional family members, additional outfits, and more. Send whatever questions you have our way, or click here for a little more information.
We Are Family- Family Photography in Chicago
With warmer weather settling in, are you doing some spring cleaning? Including revamping old family portraits? We have you covered! We love having family portraits in our Lincoln Park studio or on location. (Um, yes to warm, blooming, outdoor photos!) We offer a few different options that you can look at here, or you can contact us with questions.
A Big Day!- First Birthday Photography in Chicago
A first birthday is such an exciting time to celebrate! Your little one is oh so adorable, and they aren’t so little any more. They grow up way too fast, so capture this time a little better with a fun birthday and cake smash photoshoot! We can work with you to get everything you’re looking for- cake smash pictures, family pictures, pictures of just your cutie, etc. Check out what we offer here, or contact us with any questions.
5 Tips for a Stress-Free Family Session
Taking family pictures isn’t easy. For one, having photo sessions with children requires a lot of patience. If an upcoming family photo shoot is giving you sleepless nights, check out these 5 tips for a stress-free family session!
It’s Okay to be Candid
Taking the “perfect” shot for a family with young children can be challenging. While it’s great to have some posed photos of the family all together, don’t be afraid to be yourself in front of the camera!
If someone in your family has a funny joke to tell, let them share it to get everyone laughing. If your kids want to run around to get some energy out, this can be a great way to start the session (and it makes it easier for them to want to sit still later!).
Additionally, below are some games kids can play during the photography session that can make memorable shots:
● Bear crawl, skipping, and running races
● Follow the leader
● Freeze dance
● Tickle fight
Pick a Location You’re Comfortable At
While it might not initially seem like the location will impact your stress levels, it actually can! Shooting in a location that you’re excited about and feel comfortable in is important, because it’s one less thing you’ll be worrying about during the session.
For example, if you have a favorite park in Chicago to take the kids to, let’s shoot there! If you prefer the comfort of your own home, we can come to you. We’re also happy to suggest some of our favorite locations if you need suggestions.
The location sets the scene and the mood for the session, so make sure it’s somewhere you’re looking forward to using!
Set Reasonable Expectations
Having realistic expectations before going into your photo sessions can minimize your stress levels. For instance, a shy preschooler might do better with regular sessions than short mini sessions while a toddler who typically naps in the afternoon will likely be cranky if you try to schedule a shoot during that time.
On the other hand, a one-year-old baby may not tolerate long sessions and several outfit changes. However, they may like an easy-going session with attention grabbers like a wagon ride.
Consider Your Wardrobe
The right wardrobe can transform ordinary pictures into extraordinary ones. We can guide you depending on your photo session scenery, what you intend to do with the pictures, and the season. Some things to consider when choosing your outfits include:
● Location: How you dress for a sunset session in a park will vary from a winter session in the field.
● Color Scheme: Choose one patterned outfit for your family and then blend it with coordinating colors.
● Trying on Your Outfits: Ensure everyone tries their photo session clothes before showing up at the location to feel confident in how they look.
Relax at the Photoshoot
Handle unexpected things like surprise rainfall and stained clothes during your session calmly. Chances are, we likely have a backup plan or ways to shoot around distracting elements!
When you are stressed, your entire family can become anxious and suddenly feel stiff as they stand in front of the camera. If something goes wrong, take a deep breath and smile! Also, try to enjoy the process even when things don’t happen the way you were expecting.
Your family photography session should be memorable and enjoyable. Try out the above tips to have a stress-free photo shoot during your next session.
Celebrate Spring Birthdays!
They’re coming around the corner, so schedule your little one’s spring first birthday cake smash soon! Included in our cake smash session is a cute set, cake to smash, and an online gallery of your high resolution photos from the shoot. We have our cake smashes happening in our Lincoln Park studio at the moment, but warmer weather means outdoor cake smashes are coming back soon! Click here for more information regarding our cake smashes, and contact us with any questions or scheduling.
Chicago Children and Family Photography- Working With Kids
Every photographer tries their best to get smiling faces from everyone, but sometimes the little ones have a hard time getting into a good mood. Here are a few things to try to get them feeling better during your photography session.
Play their favorite song, show, or video. A familiar, happy tune may get them singing, dancing, or very smiley.
Try playing with their favorite toy. Shaking their favorite toy around can help to grab their attention and smile at their familiar toy.
Take a break! Sometimes it’s good to do something different for a little while and come back.
Give them a snack. Another good refresher that can take the cranky edge off.
Engage tickle monster! A good tickle or a funny action can bring on some great giggles too!
We Love First Birthday Cake Smashes!
Make your little one’s first birthday extra special and memorable with a cake smash! We love working with families to come up with an adorable set to use for your session. Grab some ideas from the internet or even Pinterest for a theme, pick out an outfit (or a couple), and we’ll take care of the rest. We’ll have the set ready for you once you arrive along with a cake to smash. We’ll walk you through the plan for your cake smash session, and we’ll take some awesome photos of the birthday guy or gal! It’s so fun to see so many smiles, giggles, and obviously cake smashing too!
For some more information about our cake smashes, click here. Contact us with any questions or to set up a cake smash with your little one.
Too Cute!
Start off the new year with some wonderful, new family portraits! Capture the smiles, the giggles, the sparkle in everyone’s eyes. Choose from a whole family session, just focus on the kids, get some photos of your new addition to your family, or even snap some pictures with your furry friend! We would love to put something together that works for what you’re looking for. Click here for information on some of the options we offer. Contact us to set up an appointment or with any questions.
Brighten Up The Birthday!
Get the little one out of the house for a special birthday activity! Come in to enjoy a fun cake smash session with a customizable theme and a yummy cake to smash. Let us capture the birthday kiddo’s smiles and giggles, and tearing apart that cake! For more information click here. To set up an appointment or if you have any questions contact us.
Customizable Photoshoots
Back when we had a day or two of some warmer weather we had the opportunity to shoot a gender reveal! This family booked some cute, holiday family pictures and added the reveal onto their booking. Contact us to book and plan a customized photography appointment. We have quite a few options available to browse here- use as the structure for your booking or as a stepping point!
It’s Hard To Be A Kid Sometimes
As cute as the kiddos may be, don’t forget that they have tough and bad days too! Sometimes it’s hard to get a smile or a laugh out of them. There are times where the kids are cranky, don’t want to be away from mom and dad, or are cautious or shy since they don’t know the photographer or assistant. We’ll do our best to work with your family to get those smiles and laughs out. It may take just a good tickle from a family member, it may take a break, it may take a different pose or setting. Remember a good night sleep or nap, a meal or snack, water, and diaper change can all help too! Bringing a favorite toy and putting on their favorite song or show might help as well!