chicago portraits

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2016 Wrap Up

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2016 Wrap Up

2016 was year of amazing growth, closeness, emotion, and overall life fullness. From newborns to new marriages and Chicago to Oahu, photography took me to new places, familiar places and amazing hearts. I went through periods of self doubt, questioning my work and its ability to continually push further. I was inspired by so many artists' creativity. I was inspired by the faith of so many of the brides and grooms celebrating their commitment. I worked on sharing my love for photography and helping others take better photos. Here's a glimpse into some of my favorite moments from 2016. 2017 is going to be written in the salt and starts. And I'm looking forward to everyday the new year brings.

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Portraits :: Rodeghero Family [Chicago]

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Portraits :: Rodeghero Family [Chicago]

 

charity: water is a phenomenal organization that aims to provide impoverished areas of the world with tools to be able to access clean water. Because its operations are funded by private donors, every dollar that is raised funds clean water projects. It's an organization whose mission and philosophies align with my personal views. And I wanted to be involved.

So, in December of 2013 I ran a [one month] campaign for charity: water called 'Photos for Filters'. In this campaign, I was offering 20 min sessions for donations of $100 or more. The response was amazing, and within a few weeks, I reached my goal of raising $2000!

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Engagement :: Elizabeth + John [Morton Arboretum]

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These two! How great of a story just in time for upcoming Father's Day. Elizabeth and John met at the University of Illinois during dad's weekend several years back. John proposed to Elizabeth at home and after she said yes, they went to Mia Francesca's where John had planned for their families to be ready to celebrate the engagement. 

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How Photography Cracked Me

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Sometimes people ask, 'what got you into photography'? And I usually say it's a pretty boring story. I do not have one of those old stories of how I got my first Polaroid when I was 7 and instantly knew I was going to be a photographer. While that may be true for some, it seems like an opportunistic story. I also got kitchen toys . . . and I am certainly not a chef. [Although I'm hoping Chef Charles can help me out with that.]

You get my point. No one ever says they knew they wanted to be something when they were a kid if it doesn't pan out.

Portraits :: Alejos Family Chicago Portraits

It's time for another Alejos session! If you recall, the last session was before the littlest Alejos made his debut to the world [check the spring session here]. And now he is 3 months old! Spitting image of his older brother. So much, it's even a little spooky. After a solo portrait session, we rounded up the whole family to do a few Christmas card worthy shots [you'll have to wait til Christmas to see those]. We had one of the last mild days of the season on our side, warm sun and fall crunchy leaves.