Spring weddings invoke a sense of renewal and splendor, echoing the rebirth of nature with vibrant colors and lush greenery. It’s a time when love is not just in the air but also in full bloom. When you combine this seasonal allure with the grandeur of Armour House in Lake Forest, IL, you’re promised an ethereal stage for matrimonial bliss. This styled shoot north of Chicago is nothing short of a visual symphony, designed to inspire and captivate every couple dreaming of their perfect wedding day. Let’s delve into this exquisite fusion of elegance, nature, and classic wedding charm. A Stunnin ..read more

Engagement photography has always been a way to capture the palpable love and sheer excitement of couples embarking on a lifelong journey together. Yet, my recent engagement session at the iconic Lyric Opera of Chicago wasn’t just another day at work. It was a heartwarming reunion with my passion after two months of hiatus, recuperating from a knee injury. And oh, how splendid it was! Recovered & Recharged! After what felt like an eternity of recovery, I’ve finally returned to what I love doing most—freezing those fleeting moments of affection and joy for couples who are about to begin th ..read more

Getting engaged is a whirlwind of excitement, planning, and a whole new dictionary of terms and traditions to learn about. Among those, the concept of the “First Look” is something that captures the hearts of many. Traditionally, it describes the emotionally charged moment when the groom sees his bride in her wedding dress for the first time before the ceremony. However, there’s another, equally touching tradition that might be new to many: the Daddy-Daughter First Look. This is a special moment, a brief interlude before the chaos of the day takes over, dedicated to the first man in your life ..read more

Family formals at a wedding are like capturing a moment in time, a snapshot of all your loved ones dressed up, happy, and together—perhaps for the first time in years or even decades. These photos are a blend of tradition and celebration, holding a special place in wedding albums and on living room walls. Let’s dive into what makes family formals so meaningful and how you can ensure they’re a seamless, joyful part of your big day. What Are Family Formals? Simply put, family formals are traditional, posed photographs of your family members taken during your wedding day. This concept harks back ..read more

Sometimes, the most mundane tasks can hide the most crucial of priorities, especially when it involves safeguarding something as priceless as your wedding photos. As a Chicago wedding photographer, I’ve learned a thing or two about the backstage of this business, from capturing those joyous moments to making sure they’re preserved for decades to come. It’s a process that might seem ponderous but believe me, it’s a lifesaver. Imagine the heartache if those cherished memories were lost due to an unforeseen disaster. It’s why having a robust back-up system is not just an extra step; it’s a necess ..read more

In the luminous world of weddings, every detail contributes to the overarching tapestry of your big day. And as a luxury wedding photographer who has had the pleasure of capturing countless moments of splendor, I’ve noticed that the allure of a meticulously crafted wedding invitation suite often goes unrecognized. With a digital wave sweeping across the wedding industry, the timeless elegance of a printed invitation suite sometimes takes a backseat. But let’s be real – for those of us who cherish the tangible, the feel of premium paper between our fingers, and the beauty of ink on paper, ther ..read more

Congratulations, you’re engaged – HOORAY!! Now that you’ve checked major tasks like booking your venue, assembling your wedding party, and crafting your guest list off your checklist, it’s time to think about your engagement photos. If you’re planning to get married in the Windy City, why not let Chicago serve as a stunning backdrop for those romantic save-the-date snaps? But, with so many picturesque spots, choosing the best locations can feel like finding a needle in a haystack. Working together with couples, I help them pick spots that aren’t just beautiful, but which also mirror their pers ..read more

In the bustling city of Chicago, a trend is emerging that’s refreshing and, quite frankly, heartwarming—micro weddings. The story of Carrie and Jim’s petite yet profoundly meaningful celebration is a testament to the beauty of intimate gatherings. In a world where weddings often turn into grand spectacles, their journey illustrates that sometimes, smaller indeed can be significantly more beautiful and memorable. The Planning Adventure For many, the mere thought of planning a wedding in just a few months is enough to induce a full-on panic attack. It takes a special kind of bravery and a unique ..read more

Choosing whether to have a first look on your wedding day is a big decision for many couples. As weddings evolve and traditions become more flexible, the idea of a first look—a moment before the ceremony when the couple sees each other for the first time on their wedding day—has gained popularity. However, there’s still a lot of love for the suspense and emotion of the traditional aisle reveal. If you’re on the fence about which to choose for your special day, fret not. Let’s walk through the pros and cons of a first look and how it compares to the timeless aisle reveal. Pros and Cons of a Fir ..read more

The Engagement Session: Making Memories Setting the Stage: The Art Institute of Chicago In the heart of downtown Chicago, where amongst the buzz of daily life, lies an emblem of serenity; The Art Institute of Chicago. An Chicago engagement session in this cultured sanctuary is a romantic endeavor that brings together the love for art and each other. With its rich history, awe-inspiring architecture, and exquisite collection of artworks, this beloved institute is not just a place of attraction but an epitome of love and commitment, much like the bond you share with your partner. The Chicago Eng ..read more