Repeat Families are the Best Compliments!

When I get to photograph second and third babies after photographing the first of the fam, my heart is SO happy! Not only is it easier for me because we already have a connection, you already trust me to have me back. And that means the world. Now I’m not saying photographing a family with a big-sibling/toddler is easy by any means… :) These sessions are actually a bit more challenging than the first because older siblings need a little more time and attention, if you can believe it, than the newborn! Depending on the age gap, big brother or big sister is often majorly adjusting to their new little sibling as well, which can make for some challenging times. Sometimes they don’t want anything to do with this new baby who’s taking their attention away from mom and dad. Sometimes they want to squish their new baby with so much love! Sometimes they’re just wanting to help by getting diapers, or sharing their toys. It’s really fun to see how different each session is.

I find that it’s helpful to prepare big brothers and big sisters as much as possible that I’ll be coming and what to expect. Since newborn sessions can be on the longer side, I always recommend starting with your family photos first so that your other kiddos can be done and have play or quiet time once their photos are finished. But if your toddler is shy and needs some time to warm up, I’m happy to adjust. Each session is tailored to what’s best for your family.

Dogs and Newborns and Love and Hope

Life is a lot lately. Almost 9 months of this dismal year that is 2025 and it’s felt like a thousand awful years. My mental health, like so many of yours, is not well. In order to stay in the game, in the fight, I have to not read the constant “breaking news” emails that are flooding my inbox all day every day. I can’t look at Instagram anymore. I’m exhausted. I hate it here and I’m feeling hopeless, which is what they want.

PS. The only hell/war-zone-ness about Chicago is ICE terrorizing innocent people and peaceful protestors. If you believe what they’re saying about our democratic cities, come visit and see yourself. I’ve never been more proud to be a Chicagoan.

In order to keep going, I have to try to find even the smallest moments of joy in this saturated darkness. My photography and dogs are what I’m gravitating to. I get to photograph moments of joy, love, hope and sometimes sorrow in end-of-life pet sessions. The highs and the lows of this life. It’s made my heart full, even more compassionate and most importantly a way to give back & to see the good that’s still in this world in spite of the hate thrown at us every day.

Here’s a little love, joy and hope to help brighten your day. Mr. O became a big fur brother and is slightly in love with his little sister. I adore this family so so much.

Keep going,

Courtney

Lincoln Park Family Welcomes Third Baby!

I’ve had the privilege of photographing this beautiful family several times over the years! Two newborn sessions and family sessions mixed in. This tiny little peanut was SO smiley. We rolled with the punches on this session. We had a mix-up in scheduling and I showed up when Mom wasn’t expecting me until the next week! Note to moms: reconsider emailing from the hospital in the early morning hours just after having your baby to schedule things! 😆 They rallied and got the older kiddos ready while I started with this little lady and she put on a show with all the smiles and sleepiness. She was the sleepiest baby I’d had in quite a while. Even though it was chaos at the very beginning since they weren’t expecting me, it all worked out and we made some beautiful photos for this family that I love and appreciate so much. They say adding a third is easier than adding a second and you’re seasoned pros by the time #3 arrives - has that the case for you?! This family made it look like it this day for sure!

I’m crazy behind on blogging so this little lady is actually well over a year old now and I can’t wait to see them all for their family session this fall and see how much she’s grown! My favorite part about photographing your families over the years is watching your family grow up. It makes me feel like an extended auntie!