Bridgeport Lifestyle Newborn Session {Chicago, IL}

Lately I’ve been discovering that my most favorite sessions are the ones where I’m mostly just a fly on the wall. I will give direction when needed, but generally I just hang back and observe. I love watching how people interact naturally, without me telling them what to do. And then I go from there. I might have you look at each other or bring your noses or foreheads together occasionally but otherwise I follow your lead and just photograph it. Pure lifestyle nature, which isn’t what I was trained in so doesn’t always come naturally for me. This newborn lifestyle session in Bridgeport was just like that. Beautiful family with the sweeeeeetest dog, PLANTS and lots of natural light. All of my favorite things - It was a magical dream come true. They sat in their sun-filled living room and had coffee, laughed together at my obsession with their pup and snuggled the newest member of their family. Sweet baby A would get a little fussy now and then & dad knew just how to hold him to calm him down. It’s the moments like these, especially in those blurry first few weeks, that I want you to remember the most. It’s real. It’s raw. Full of love. It’s those small moments that make up a beautiful life. How lucky am I that I get to witness those moments and document them so you so you’ll never forget. I do not take that for granted and I appreciate each and every one of you.

The Smiliest Newborn I've Ever Photographed [Chicago, IL]

Little Miss I smiled almost nonstop during her newborn session this summer and I loved every second with her and her family! Born on the 4th of July, I can already tell she’s going to be a little firecracker, full of personality & I’m so honored I was chosen to document her first big photo session. She slept through most of her session, but when she showed her eyes it was so beautiful. Her big brother was so helpful, and so in love with his little sister; it was very sweet to watch. And the dog! Her big fur brother is the most gentle giant, protector of the family. The 3 of these “kiddos” are all going to be best friends.

Their sweet dog Scout is the reason this family found me! A few years ago I was photographing some holiday mini pet fundraiser sessions for Alive Rescue here in Chicago & they brought Scout in (pre-kiddos!) to be photographed. A few years down the road they remembered I did newborn photos and reached out for a session of their own. All of the seeds I’ve been planting over the past few years are starting to germinate and while it’s been a slow build since I moved here, it’s all coming together. I don’t advertise and the introvert in me has a hard time networking and talking about my business. So 98% of what I do is from word of mouth and referrals you send my way. It makes me so grateful every day that I get to do this, and that you spread the word about me. Trust the timing, friends. Life takes you where you need to go and teaches you what you need to learn in the moment. Be well and be kind.

xoxo, Courtney

Chicago Area Lifestyle Newborn {Glen Ellyn, IL}

It’s been bit since I’ve had some time to blog and I’m quite behind! Yay for being busy, though, especially since I’m worried another shut-down is in store for us again. I’ve already had to cancel/turn away some Fresh 48 sessions because of restrictions :( Really wish people would get vaccinated and mask up so we can all get past this sooner.

Anyway, take a look at this sweet pea who arrived much earlier than his due date because he couldn’t wait to party with his family! Little L was awake almost the entire time for his session and I was quite pleased. I mean, look at those beautiful eyes! I LOVE when newborns are awake and I can get a glimpse of their little personality. I look at them and wonder who they’ll become, I look to see who they look more like. It’s so fun for me. And a tip to expecting mamas - roll with it if your baby’s eyes are open for their session. These unpredictable creatures usually eventually go to sleep so you’ll get sleepy photos and eyes open. The best of both worlds.

Welcome to the world, Mr. L. I’m so glad you’re here!

Newborn baby boy looks at the camera while laying on a bed during his newborn photo session in Glen Ellyn, IL a suburb of Chicago