Valentine's Day Mini Sessions and Open House - Studio 25 Naperville

After our holiday mini sessions this past season, we COULD NOT WAIT to introduce a new round of sessions for you and your loved ones. Valentine's Day Minis at Studio 25 truly embrace the season of love and give yourself the gift of lasting memories.

Save the Date: February 10th, 2024 from 10am to 2pm

Duration: 10 Minutes (one set) and 20 Minutes (2 sets)

Why You'll Love It:

Unique Sets: Studio 25 Naperville’s very own set designer, Jordan Emmons, brings over a decade of experience from Anthropologie’s window and store design team has created 2 fun sets for your mini sessions. We have a Flower Set or a simple pink backdrop with balloons.

High-Quality Images: Each session includes your choice of 3 high-resolution downloaded images, ensuring you have cherished memories to share and treasure.

Options for Everyone: Want more than three images? No problem! We offer additional photos and a variety of products that you can choose from to customize your package.

THERE'S MORE!

After our scheduled mini sessions, join us for our inaugural open house event! From 12:30pm to 2:30pm, Studio 25 will be open to the public for you to capture your own memories. In addition to our two custom sets, pop-up sets will be available around the studio for even more photography opportunities. Use your iPhone, or feel free to bring your own photographer along! And that's not all: Chef Terrell from Dark Horse Catering will be hosting a delectable pop-up featuring the most irresistible desserts. Tickets must be purchased for each person - $25.

We can't wait for you to explore even more of what Studio 25 has in store this season, and we hope to see you there!

Capturing Authentic Moments: The Magic of Lifestyle Newborn Photography in Naperville, Chicago, and beyond

Welcome to the captivating world of newborn lifestyle photography….

As a Naperville and Chicago family photographer, I have the privilege of capturing those candid, unscripted moments that beautifully tell your family's unique story.

Lifestyle photography stands out because it seizes genuine, spontaneous moments (like when Captain America shows up at your session- see below). It's the natural interactions, the unguarded smiles, and the tender exchanges between family members that bring a photo to life. In these sessions, we're not just taking pictures; we're freezing precious memories in time – memories that are as real as they get.

For those welcoming a new member into their family, a lifestyle newborn session offers a unique opportunity to document this special time. These sessions are flexible, allowing for photographs to be taken without the rush and stress of traditional newborn sessions. They take place in the comfort of your own home, capturing your family in your personal space where everyone is most at ease. It's the tiny yawns, the way your baby curls into you, and those fleeting, everyday moments that we focus on, ensuring that every little detail is cherished forever.

Before the session begins, we ensure that mom feels her absolute best. Our professional hair and makeup artists will pamper you, ensuring you look and feel confident and beautiful for the photoshoot. This not only enhances the photos but also adds to the overall experience, making it more luxurious and relaxing.

A lifestyle newborn session with us isn’t just about taking photos; it's about narrating your family’s story with your newest addition. It's about capturing the love, the joy, and the authenticity of this momentous time in your life in a way that's unique to your family.

As a photographer specializing in newborn lifestyle imagery in Naperville, Chicago and surrounding suburbs, I am passionate about capturing these fleeting moments for families. If you're ready to create a beautiful narrative of your family's journey with your new bundle of joy, consider booking a session. Let's capture the beauty of your real life, in all its authenticity and love.

Ready to capture the magic of your family's everyday moments? Contact us today to book your lifestyle newborn session and let's create memories that will last a lifetime.

A Guide to Dressing for Your Family Photo Shoot (Naperville and Chicago)

The holiday season will be upon us before we know it, and it's the perfect time to capture some magical moments with your little ones. Whether you're planning a holiday-themed photo shoot in Naperville or the bustling streets of Chicago, choosing the right outfits can make a world of difference. I am here to guide you through dressing your children for a holiday photo shoot that will result in cherished memories and timeless photographs.

01. Comfort is Key

When dressing your children for a holiday photo shoot, prioritize comfort. Uncomfortable kids can lead to uncooperative behavior, which doesn't make it easy for great photos. Opt for soft, breathable fabrics that won't irritate your child's skin during the shoot. Here are a few great local options for comfortable kids holiday oufits in both Naperville and Chicago: Tinker Children’s Boutique Tinker Children’s Boutique in downtown Naperville or Chicago’s very own Monica and Andy. If you really want to get comfortable check out the adorable pajamas from Illinois’ very own Lalalogan.

02. THEME AND LOCATION

Think about the theme of your photo shoot when determining outfits. Are you going for a classic holiday look or something more unique?

Consider the location. If you're shooting in a prairie field in Naperville, you might want to blend in with the picturesque field setting. In downtown Chicago, you can experiment with more urban and trendy styles.

03. Coordinated Color Schemes

Coordinating your children's outfits can create a visually pleasing and harmonious look. Pick a color palette that suits the holiday season. Reds, greens, blues, and metallics often work well for holiday photography color schemes.

04. Layers and Accessories

Layers can add depth and texture to photos. Consider adding cardigans, scarves, or cute vests.

Don't forget about accessories like hats, headbands, or bows. They can add a festive touch to your child's ensemble.

05. Personality and individuality

Let your child's personality shine through in their outfit choices. Whether they're a budding fashionista or a sports enthusiast, incorporate elements that reflect their interests.

06. Keep It Timeless:

While it's tempting to go for trendy styles, timeless outfits can ensure your photos remain relevant for years to come.

Dressing your children for a holiday photo shoot can be a delightful experience. By prioritizing comfort, considering the theme and location, coordinating colors, adding layers and accessories, showcasing personality, and opting for timeless styles, you'll create memorable photographs that will be treasured for years.

We offer access to an online styling service to make this process as simple as possible. Interested in learning more about working with us in Naperville, Chicago, and the surrounding suburbs? Click on the button below.

Unveiling Your True Beauty: Debunking the "Not Photogenic" Myth

In today's social media-driven world, where everyone is a photographer, the concept of being photogenic has taken on new significance. We've all heard it, and perhaps even said it ourselves: "I'm not photogenic" or "I look terrible in photos." These self-doubts often lead to anxiety and discomfort whenever a camera is present.

But here's a truth that has emerged from years of capturing beautiful moments: it's NOT true!

Discovering the Magic in Family Photos

As a photographer, one of my deepest passions is family photography. It's not just about capturing images; it's about freezing moments of genuine love and connection. When families come together in front of the camera, something magical transpires.

The stiffness and awkwardness that can often plague photoshoots vanish into the background, making way for authentic emotions and the pure, unadulterated love that binds families together.

The Beauty of Togetherness

In these precious moments, we see the true beauty that emerges when we are surrounded by those we cherish the most. It's not about perfect angles or flawless poses; it's about celebrating your unique bonds and personalities.

So, the next time you find yourself stepping in front of a camera, remember this: You are photogenic, and you are beautiful just as you are. The key to a successful photoshoot isn't striving for perfection but embracing the love that surrounds you and allowing it to shine through in every frame.

The Magic of Candid Moments

While posed family portraits certainly have their charm, there's something undeniably magical about candid moments captured on camera. These unscripted glimpses into your family's life can reveal genuine emotions, interactions, and connections that resonate far more deeply than any posed photograph.

Imagine this scenario: It's a lazy Sunday morning, and your family is gathered in the kitchen, each member engrossed in their own activity. The aroma of pancakes fills the air as the sunlight streams through the window. In this simple yet beautiful moment, you might not think to grab the camera, but it's precisely moments like these that hold the essence of your family's story.

Candid moments often arise when you least expect them. It could be a spontaneous tickle fight, a shared joke, or a stolen glance between family members. These are the moments that reflect your family's true dynamics and the love that binds you together.

Capturing these candid moments requires a skilled photographer who knows how to blend into the background, allowing your family to relax and be themselves. It's during these unguarded moments that authentic emotions and connections shine through, resulting in photographs that tell a genuine and heartwarming story.

So, the next time you're tempted to orchestrate the perfect family portrait, consider embracing the beauty of candid photography. These unfiltered, unposed moments are the ones that will transport you back in time, evoking laughter, tears, and the warmth of family bonds.

Allow your photographer to document your family's unique narrative as it naturally unfolds. Whether it's a playful pillow fight, a quiet conversation, or a shared adventure, these candid moments will become treasured memories that you'll cherish for years to come.

Remember, the beauty of authenticity lies in the unexpected, the imperfect, and the uniquely "you." Let your family's story be told through the magic of candid moments.

Discover the Magic: Studio 25's Winter Woodland Holiday Portrait Adventure!

At Studio 25 Naperville, we're excited to kick off the holiday season in style with a truly magical experience that's set to be unforgettable!

Our 'Winter Woodland Holiday Portrait Experience' is here to transport you to a world of wonder and whimsy. Imagine a holiday photoshoot set that's unlike any other—a boho-chic design that's wonderfully neutral and elegantly classic. This unique creation is the brainchild of our Studio Manager and Set Designer, Jordan, who brings over a decade of design expertise from her time at Anthropologie.

Get ready to stand out in a soft, delicate, and elegant setting that's perfect for creating heartwarming family moments. But that's not all – this isn't just a photoshoot; it's a collaboration with some of Naperville's favorite local businesses, with even more surprises to come. It's all about capturing the essence of the holiday season in its purest form.

Curious to see how this enchanting set comes to life? We're giving you an exclusive sneak peek behind the scenes. Watch Jordan work her magic as she transforms our studio into a winter wonderland. And, of course, you'll get to see Emily in action as she captures the creative process. It's a journey filled with artistry and innovation that you won't want to miss.

Stay in the loop for updates on this unique holiday experience. Be the first to know when we go live by sending us a DM Emily Cummings Photographer or join the waitlist here.

Get ready to embark on a holiday adventure like no other. Stay tuned for more enchantment, creativity, and joy as we prepare to unveil the 'Winter Woodland Holiday Portrait Experience' at Studio 25 Naperville!

NAPCP Magazine Spotlight: From Ordinary to Extraordinary

The joy is unparalleled – we're thrilled to announce that Ten Little Bluebirds has graced the pages of the esteemed NAPCP Magazine, Inspired! Our hearts are bursting with excitement as we invite you to embark on a journey from "Ordinary to Extraordinary," shedding light on the incredible transformation that our team orchestrates behind the scenes.

The Spotlight on the Team: Crafting Beauty and Confidence

At Ten Little Bluebirds, we believe that every captured moment should be nothing short of extraordinary. Our secret? The brilliant minds and gifted hands of our team – the true magicians who work diligently to make our clients shine. It's not merely about photography; it's about crafting an experience that resonates with beauty and confidence.

Where Magic Meets Reality

The article shines a spotlight on our remarkable team of hair, makeup, and styling professionals. Each photo session is a canvas, and these artists transform it into a masterpiece, elevating it from the ordinary to the truly captivating. Their artistry infuses every shot with a unique flair, turning mere photographs into enduring memories.

The Empowerment in Transformation

Beyond the surface-level enhancements, our team empowers clients to embrace their authenticity. It's about much more than just makeup and styling – it's about igniting confidence, sparking self-discovery, and allowing individuals to see themselves in an extraordinary light. We are honored to be part of this journey of self-expression and empowerment.

Where Beauty Meets Confidence

The heart of this transformation lies in the hands of our dedicated team members. Their artistry and dedication are the driving forces behind every photoshoot's success. With every click of the shutter, we're reminded of the power of collaboration, where creativity and passion unite to create a unique blend of magic.

Creating a Supportive Space

Our studio isn't just a place to take photographs; it's a safe haven of empowerment and authenticity. The warm and inviting atmosphere allows clients to shine, not just in front of the camera, but in their own skin. It's a space where the ordinary evolves into the extraordinary and where stories come to life through each photograph.

A Heartfelt Thank You

As the founder of Ten Little Bluebirds, I'm profoundly grateful for the dedication and passion that our team brings to every session. Their commitment has shaped our studio's identity and transformed it into a hub of empowerment, creativity, and self-expression.

A Journey of Transformation

To our team: You are the heart and soul of our studio. Your artistry, dedication, and the magic you infuse into every shot create experiences that last a lifetime.

And to our cherished clients: Thank you for entrusting us with your moments, allowing us to be part of your journey. We look forward to continuing to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary, one photograph at a time.

Stay tuned for more stories of transformation and empowerment, as we celebrate this incredible milestone and share our passion for crafting moments that are nothing short of extraordinary.

Celebrate Your Little One's First Birthday with Fine Art Photography in Naperville

Welcome to Ten Little Bluebirds Photography, the premier destination for capturing precious moments and creating timeless art in downtown Naperville. We are thrilled to announce our exclusive Fine Art First Birthday Sessions, where we combine the elegance of fine art photography with the joy of celebrating your child's milestone. Join us in our downtown Naperville studio for a unique experience that culminates in a tasteful cake smash session, producing cherished memories that you'll be proud to showcase on your walls.

At Ten Little Bluebirds Photography, we understand the significance of your child's first birthday. Emily has an eye for capturing those heartwarming, candid moments that reflect your little one's unique personality. We strive to create beautiful, artistic portraits that tell a story and freeze these precious moments in time. From adorable giggles to toothy grins, we will work with you to document this milestone in a way that truly reflects your child's spirit.

Our Fine Art First Birthday Sessions go beyond typical photography sessions. We embrace the artistic aspect of photography, ensuring that each image is carefully composed, beautifully lit, and flawlessly edited. Our attention to detail and passion for aesthetics result in stunning, heirloom-quality portraits that evoke emotion and leave a lasting impression.

What's a first birthday celebration without a cake smash? We believe in keeping things classy and “tasteful” while still capturing the joy and excitement of your child's cake smash experience. Our team will create a setup that complements simple aesthetic, ensuring a visually pleasing and memorable cake smash session. From adorable cake-covered faces to gleeful laughter, we'll capture every delightful moment.

We understand the importance of proudly showcasing your cherished memories. That's why we offer a range of display options, including wall art, albums, and prints, to transform your favorite images into stunning pieces of art. Imagine walking into your home and being greeted by a gallery of captivating photographs that celebrate your child's journey. Our expertise in print presentation ensures that your images will look breathtaking and stand the test of time.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to commemorate your child's first birthday with a Fine Art First Birthday Session at Ten Little Bluebirds Photography. Our sessions are in high demand, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance. Contact us today to discuss your vision, preferences, and any specific details you'd like to incorporate into the session.

At Ten Little Bluebirds, we are passionate about capturing and preserving the joy, love, and innocence of childhood. Our Fine Art First Birthday Sessions in downtown Naperville offer a unique and artistic approach to capturing this milestone. Trust us to create beautiful, timeless images that will become treasured family heirlooms. Celebrate this special occasion with us and let us turn your child's first birthday into a work of art.

Naperville First Birthday Portrait Session Collaboration with Molly's Cupcakes

First Birthday Portrait Collaboration
in our Naperville Studio

We have some deliciously delightful news to share with you! Naperville Photography Studio, Ten Little Bluebirds Photography, is teaming up with the enchanting Molly's Cupcakes (30 West Jefferson Ave., Naperville), a local bakery that knows how to sprinkle some magic into every bite.

Together, we are creating an experience that will make your little one's first birthday photo shoot even more extraordinary. Imagine your adorable little one, surrounded by vibrant balloons and playfully diving into a dreamy smash cake, lovingly crafted by Molly's Cupcakes. It's a recipe for endless joy!

Molly's Cupcakes brings an extra sprinkle of sweetness to our partnership. Their passion for baking mouthwatering treats perfectly aligns with my commitment to capturing those heartfelt moments you'll treasure forever. Combining our talents, we're offering an experience that will leave you with not just stunning photographs but also a sweet and scrumptious memory that will last a lifetime.

To reserve your session and ensure a spot in our birthday wonderland, simply visit our website at www.tenlittlebluebirds.com/firstbirthday. 

I'm excited to see the pure joy on your little one's face as they discover the scrumptious and delightful treat that's waiting just for them!

Check out some of our exclusive 1st birthday offerings below!

Create Cherished Memories with Mommy and Me Sessions in Our Breathtaking Studio

At our Studio, we believe in the magic of capturing moments that tell the story of love, connection, and joy. We are excited to offer a unique Mommy and Me experience in our brand new, breathtaking studio. There’s no better time than now to seize the opportunity to create unforgettable memories with your little ones that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Our Mommy and Me sessions are designed to celebrate the special bond between mothers and their children. The studio's warm and inviting ambiance provides the perfect backdrop for moments of laughter, tenderness, and love. Our team is dedicated to creating images that reflect the authentic connection between you and your little ones; celebrating the love and connection that make motherhood truly special. Let us preserve these precious moments for you, so you can look back on this journey with warmth and affection.

A Magical Inaugural Photo Shoot: Charming Little Guy and Some Fluffy Companions

Bursting with excitement over here! Last Friday, our studio was abuzz with anticipation as we embarked on an unforgettable inaugural photo shoot. Everything about it was simply perfect, and we couldn't be happier with the magical moments we captured. The lighting in our new space is nothing short of incredible, and it set the stage for an enchanting experience.

Our charming little guy, accompanied by his fluffy little companions (yes, you read that right - chicks AND ducklings!), stole our hearts from the moment they stepped into the studio. The innocence and wonder in his eyes, coupled with the adorable quirkiness of the fluffy buddies, made for an endearing and delightful combination.

As we carefully posed and snapped each shot, we couldn't help but marvel at the joy and pure happiness that radiated from the images. The magic of capturing these fleeting moments is why we are so passionate about photography. Moments like these create lasting memories, and we are honored to be a part of preserving them.

Our new studio space provided the perfect backdrop for this heartwarming session. The soft hues and cozy atmosphere added an extra touch of warmth and intimacy to the photographs. We knew this was the start of something special and heartwarming.

As we wrapped up the shoot, we couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to capture these cherished moments. The joy of working in our new studio, combined with the incredible energy of this little guy and his adorable companions, left us with hearts full of happiness.

We're thrilled to embark on this new chapter of our photography journey, and we can't wait to create more magical memories with our clients. Each session brings its unique charm and special moments, and we are grateful for every opportunity to freeze time and capture the beauty of life's little wonders.

Thank you to our lovely clients and fluffy companions for making our inaugural shoot so memorable and heartwarming. Your smiles and laughter are what fuels our passion for photography, and we're eager to embark on many more joyous adventures together.

Until next time, let the magic of photography continue to unfold, preserving the essence of love, laughter, and adorable moments forever.

A little rain can't stop us.... Chicago Family City Photoshoot

I miss everything about Chicago, except January and February - Gary Cole

A sunny day in the Windy City is glorious to behold! You can imagine how I felt waking up to my weather app alerting me to a downpour during my upcoming photo shoot in downtown Chicago. Hair and makeup was already on their way to my client and outfits for our location were planned. Rescheduling was not in the cards (especially with a family of 3 boys involved in sports and activities). This photo shoot was happening!

I know the streets of Chicago well and we were able to navigate to various awnings and overhangs all along Michigan Avenue. The archways at 4th Presbyterian provide a beautiful backdrop, rain or shine. The Wrigley Building is also a great spot to keep dry and get a nice hot cup of Ghiradelli hot chocolate. Our black umbrellas were key props that day. Despite the inclement weather we ended up with a gorgeous photo shoot where the lights were extra sparkly and the hot chocolate was extra tasty.

hair and makeup: @julesflemingartistry1
styling: @styledbygoldeniris

Award Winning Chicago Family Photographer

We were so please to be invited back to the NAPCP top 100 artists this July. For the second year in a row I was chosen as a top 100 artist with the NAPCP Print Competition and Gallery Event. We packed up the family and headed down Atlanta to celebrate and support fellow visual artists.

The NAPCP Inspired Print Competition & Gallery Event is the only competition of its kind. Artists from around the globe submit their work each year to this exclusive competition. The Top 100 images advance on to be displayed in a beautiful gallery event at NAPCP headquarters (Park Studios) in Atlanta, GA where there is LIVE judging. 9 winners are then announced in person and are given awards in an intimate setting where we celebrate them as artists. I met so many inspiring artists and can’t wait to be back next year.

Chicago Family Photo Shoot Olive Park | Award Winning Family Portrait Photographer in Chicago

I am so excited to share a Chicago family photography shoot just north of Navy Pier in Oliver Park. We chose a Monday evening when this beautiful Chicago park was not terribly crowded. We explored the park and got some amazing Chicago skyline family pictures just as the sun was setting. We finished our family photo shoot at Ohio Street Beach. I always love this skyline view of Chicago so up close. Our stylist, Andrea from Styled by Golden Iris, did an amazing job picking out the perfect selection of outfits for a unique family photo shoot in Chicago.

Newborn Photo Shoot In LaGrange IL

This family with a dad from Scotland had many Scottish influences in their home which was so much fun to incorporate in our LaGrange newborn photo shoot. The older sister clearly enjoyed holding and doting on her baby brother. The best part about choosing an in hope experience especially with small children is that the kids are comfortable in their space and that comes through in the images. We also don’t have to contend with the unpredictable Chicago weather which is always a plus with a family portrait session that includes a newborn.

A Downtown Chicago Adventure

I was so happy when this Naperville family wanted to explore my old haunts on the Gold Coast of Chicago. Many have asked me about this favorite location. It is actually Aster Hall food court in the heart of Michigan Avenue. When I am not shooting here I love to enjoy a good Small Cheval burger while watching the city unfold below.

Because it is a food court we had to shoot early so that we would not be in anyone’s way, we also were able to walk down Michigan ave towards the Wrigley Building without the weekend crowds. It also allowed us to get a variety of locations in Chicago.

Our stylist worked hard to help plan the perfect outfits for our shoot and our hair and makeup artists were onsite early to help make this photo shoot a success. It was so much fun to see how this family portrait session came together.

A New Way of Thinking about School Photography | Chicago Children's Photographer

Every year I have the pleasure of photographing roughly 200 of the most adorable children Chicago. I am blessed that I have the opportunity to work at school and I get to put my camera to good use!  It is such a fun way to get to know these students and in turn they become very comfortable in front of my camera, check out the video below if you don't believe me!! I slow the portrait process down and use the other students to get genuine reactions from the student. I just love how they turned out.

Starfish Kids Shoot Naperville and Chicago Commercial Photography

Thrilled for Starfish Kid’s big launch. Starfish Kids has such an adorable and versatile (not to mention durable) clothing line. I loved helping them create images for spring and summer in my Naperville studio space. The models were adorable and so much fun! Here are just a few of the great images we captured from the shoot.

How we get you ready for your newborn family session....

Let's get ready for your newborn session! I get you, as a busy mother I understand how hard it can be to plan a photo session, especially have just having had a baby. That is why all of my sessions include thoughtful planning to make sure that hair, makeup, and stying is taken care of and easy. My Chicago and Naperville team and I are always happy to help you find the perfect outfits for you and your family. We work hard on the details so our clients can be confident about the art we are creating. We start by connecting you with Katie Schuppler our Chicago Fashion Stylist. She can help you choose your clothing based on where we will be shooting in your home. Once Katie has worked with you to choose your outfit we share your style selections with our hair and makeup team so they are ready for the day of your session. I will also set up virtual walkthrough at the same time of day we plan to shoot so that I can see your home and make sure that we have the perfect light. I just love the backdrop of this nursery with the whimsical wallpaper by My Cole and Son, don't you?

Speakeasy in Downtown Naperville

We moved to Naperville in the midst the pandemic and we emerge to learn their is a speakeasy in downtown Naperville. What?!? I was thrilled to photograph Reece at work at Northcott Liquorette for Main & Luxe magazine you can read
more about the Northcott and new fall menu https://mainluxe.com/luxe-life or better yet pay them a visit.

Naperville Studio Session

One of my most favorite moments of my photography sessions is the session reveal. When I switched from online galleries to actually meeting with clients and looking through each image together I'll admit I was a bit terrified. Like all artists we fear how people will perceive our art, our editing decisions etc. But I learned to to face that fear because there is nothing more validating than watching someone view the people they love captured by your lens. Every moment is a learning experience and the reveal sessions are a way to learn more about my clients and what they love (and maybe not love so much), but it also makes future sessions even better because I understand them on a deeper level. Plus, they feel seen and heard, which makes for more meaningful client relationships.
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I was in love with this session studio session with a client family that I just adore. We started inside with a more formal and elegant family session followed by the snow machine out back where we ended with lots of laughs.
Thank you @ksstyleconsulting for your always amazing styling guidance to @monique_bridgewater for your exquisite makeup, and @paigeypockets for the beautiful work you do on hair and @pinmeupchicago for your amazing team.