From "I Do" to Baby No. 3's First Birthday: Over a Decade of Milestones with a Special Family

One of the greatest joys of being a family photographer is getting to walk alongside my clients as their stories unfold. Over the years, there are a few families who become so much more than clients—they become friends, familiar faces I look forward to seeing again and again.

This beautiful family is one of those stories, and it has been a heartfelt privilege to photograph their journey—from the excitement of wedding vows to welcoming their third child into the world.

Family Portrait On-Location - Newborn Wrap in Wooden Trench Bowl on Infinity Medium Grey

Just one year ago, I was invited into the comfort of their Downers Grove, IL home to capture the newborn session of their youngest, baby Nicholas. There’s something special about at-home sessions, especially when surrounded by the warmth of familiarity and love.

Nicholas was peacefully wrapped in tan and nestled into a grey whicker basket. Then we switch out to a soft blue wrap and nestled into one of my most cherished props—a wooden bread bowl passed down through generations in my own family.

We took our time that day, capturing all the little details that pass by all too quickly—his delicate eyelashes, wrinkled toes, and sleepy portraits. His older siblings were both curious and bursting with excitement! Brother was eager to snuggle and their energy brought so much life and joy to the images. We also made time for extended family portraits, creating a full-circle moment surrounded by love across generations.

Fast forward to this spring, and we were back together to celebrate Nicholas turning one. We chose the Fabyan Forest Preserve for his first birthday session—a dreamy location where nature slowly awakens from winter.

The bluebells had just begun to bloom, adding delicate touches of color to the earthy landscape. The weather had other plans, though. It was one of those crisp, windy spring days that reminds you nature is in charge—but we were on a mission to beat the week of rain in the forecast.

Despite the chill, we found moments of relief. The historic boathouse offered us shelter from the wind and adds a rustic architectural element to frame the session. Nicholas, now full of personality and movement, was a bundle of curiosity.

We set up his little teepee near the blooms, and he wasted no time exploring every flower, every stick, and every sound around him. He zoomed across the ground with toddler enthusiasm, his wide eyes soaking in the world.

The highlight of the session, of course, was the smash cake.

As we placed the frosted treat in front of him, he paused with the most serious of expressions—analyzing the textures.

And then, with one bold face-first dive, he committed! That first taste was all he needed to declare the session complete.

A cozy car ride home awaited, likely filled with sugar-induced giggles and sleepy eyes.

As I reflect on the past ten-plus years documenting this family’s milestones, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude. From wedding day magic to newborn snuggles and first birthday giggles, it’s been an honor to preserve these memories. Watching their family grow and evolve has been one of the great joys of my career.

Here’s to many more seasons of life captured together. I can’t wait for our next adventure.

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