Skokie & Chicago North Shore
Family Photography
Real moments with the people who matter most.
Book Your Family SessionWhat a family session actually looks like
Nobody stands in a line and says cheese.
A session with me looks like your family being your family: walking through a park, sitting on a blanket, kids running ahead, someone tickling someone, everyone laughing. I guide you gently (“walk toward me,” “whisper something silly to each other”) but I never force a pose that doesn't feel like you.
I photograph families throughout Skokie, Evanston, Wilmette, and the North Shore. At parks you already love, in your own backyard, or inside your home where the real life happens. The location should feel natural to your family, not like a backdrop you drove an hour to find.
The photos you get back? They look like your family on your best day.
Every kind of family
Whether it's just the three of you or a four-generation gathering at grandma's house, family sessions are designed to be flexible. I regularly photograph:
- Growing families with young kids
- Extended families and multigenerational groups
- Couples without kids who want beautiful portraits together
- Siblings — chaotic energy included
- Families going through transitions who want to freeze a moment in time
Your family doesn't need to be “picture perfect.” They need to be present. I'll handle the rest.
How family sessions work
Outdoor sessions: Parks throughout the North Shore offer incredible backdrops. I know the best spots in Skokie (Emily Oaks Nature Center, Laramie Park), Evanston, Wilmette, and beyond. Golden hour, that warm light about an hour before sunset, makes everything glow.
In-home sessions: Some of my favorite family photos happen on the couch, in the kitchen, or on the front porch. These sessions capture the everyday moments that feel ordinary now and priceless later.
Wardrobe guidance: For Classic and Full sessions, I'll help you coordinate outfits before the session so everything looks intentional without looking overdone. Think warm neutrals, soft textures, nothing too matchy.
Family session pricing
Sessions start at $200 for a 30-minute mini session, perfect for seasonal updates and quick family portraits. The Classic session ($325, 60 minutes) is the most popular choice for families who want more relaxed coverage and time to capture real moments. The Full session ($500, 90 minutes) is ideal for extended families and multigenerational groups.
View Full PricingCommon questions about family photography
What should we wear for family photos?
Coordinate, don't match. Pick 2 to 3 complementary colors in soft, warm tones: cream, olive, rust, navy, mustard. Avoid logos, neon, and all-white (it reflects light and washes everyone out). I provide wardrobe guidance with Classic and Full sessions.
My kids won't sit still. Is that okay?
That's the best-case scenario. I don't need kids to sit still. I need them to be themselves. Running, climbing, laughing, refusing to cooperate and then suddenly hugging their sibling? That's the good stuff.
When is the best time for outdoor family photos?
Golden hour, about 60 to 90 minutes before sunset. The light is warm, soft, and flattering for everyone. I'll suggest the ideal time based on the season and your session date.
How far in advance should I book?
For fall sessions (the most popular), I recommend booking in August or early September. For other seasons, 2 to 3 weeks ahead usually works. Holiday card sessions should be booked by early October.
Where do you shoot family sessions?
Throughout Skokie, Evanston, Wilmette, Lincolnwood, and the broader North Shore. I have favorite spots in each area, but I'm also happy to photograph at a location that's meaningful to your family.
Can I include our dog?
Yes! Pets are absolutely welcome. They're part of the family.
Let's plan your family session
Tell me about your family and what kind of session feels right. I'll help you pick the perfect time, location, and package.
Get in TouchReady to book? Sessions start at $200