Love among the Ruins of Antigua, Guatemala
AnnMarie & Daniel's Engagement Session
Back in April I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Guatemala for a few days. It was an extremely last minute trip; and when I say last minute that means I booked a flight, packed and was on a plane in less than 12 hours.
Let me give you a little back story, while I was working the Shine Bright - Fertility Event the evening hour of Wednesday, April 26th I saw a message from a photographer friend in Florida, Jillian Tree about needing a last minute second shooter for a wedding she was photographing in Antigua. The person that was originally scheduled to travel with her was sick and unable to fly. Jillian and her family were worried about traveling alone and decided to ask around who might be available. I couldn't reply at the time because I was already working, but the thought of taking off to help her out did start to brew. Antigua, Guatemala has been on list of places I'd like to visit for quite a few years now so I figured, why not now.
Before replying to Jillian I wanted to run the idea by my boyfriend Mehul, we didn't have any specific plans for the weekend, but I didn't want to up and disappear for almost week. We talked about it and he was 100% on board with the idea of of me giving it a go and heading to Guatemala for a few days. The next step was finding a plane ticket to Guatemala City, which is the closest airport to Antigua. I couldn't find a direct flight from Chicago to Guatemala City, but around 11:45pm I was able to find a seat on a flight that connected through Dallas. We talked it over one more time and at 12:30am, I booked the flight which was leaving O'Hare at 11:45am; that meant in a little over eleven hours I would be taking off.
The flight to Dallas was smooth sailing, but my connection ended up with multiple delays, sitting on the runway for a few hours and eventually a different plane to get us to Guatemala City. In the end what was supposed to be a seven hour journey turned into fifteen hour trip. I was exhausted and excited at the same time to have made it to Guatemala.
On the first day I explored Antigua. Antigua is famous for its well preserved Spanish Baroque influenced architecture as well as a number of ruins of colonial churches. I couldn't help but be in awe of such a beautiful place and even better is we had we also had an engagement session scheduled with AnnMarie and Daniel. Jillian and I met at AnnMarie and Daniel at La Recoleccion and in the first few moments the connection between the two of them was so obvious. There was no doubt that they are genuinely in love and enjoy their time together. Since AnnMarie is into rock climbing, they had no problem climbing the ruins to get some cool perspectives.
Passion and tenderness in more beautiful moment.
Daniel nailed this jump for joy!
Reya's 2nd Birthday
Oak Brook Park District Family Aquatic Center
One of the best parts of my job is watching families grow. I believe it is an honor to be there as kids change, to document the special moments so that years down the line they can look back and remember the good times. Something I often have the joy of doing is photographing birthdays. I have been lucky enough to photograph a number of events for this family; including their most most recent party, Reya's 2nd birthday.
Back in January I photographed the family celebrating Kavya's 4th birthday, she had no problem reminding me that she is 4 years old and proud of it. Kavya loves to play with her little sister was turning two. Reya can be a bit shy, but eventually she warms up. She is definitely a daddy's girl and finds him whenever possible.
I can't wait to document the next family celebration.
If you are looking for a great place to host a kids birthday party, the Oak Brook Park District Family Aquatic Center is a great place. They have both an indoor and outdoor pool, making it great for year round fun.
Happy First Birthday Mia Skye
Prentice Women's Hospital Chicago - Birth & Fresh 48 Photography
One of my biggest joys in life is documenting births.
Shine Bright
Fertility Event
Greenhouse Loft, Chicago
As a photographer I often receive emails requesting coverage of events and each year I choose one or two special causes that are important to me for a donation of my time. This year I was contacted by Kristen Gottschalk of K&A Events to photograph the 2017 Shine Bright {come to learn, stay to get pampered} event at Greenhouse Loft in Chicago.
As a woman that has faced fertility challenges myself, I believe it is important to support organizations that advocate for women.
It's Not Easy Being Greenery
Denver Same Sex Cannabis Friendly Styled Shoot
Having been part of the wedding business for over 15 years, I have seen a lot of changes. Ever since Colorado legalized recreational marijuana use in 2012, with additional states following soon after, I have wondered how it might affect the wedding business.
The possibilities are endless, including; weed bars, infused meals, edible sweet tables, buds in bouquets and boutonnieres, take home gifts of pre-rolled joints, a shared bong toke before the first kiss, and the possibility of so much more. For those that consume cannabis on a regular basis or even those that only partake ever so often, a wedding could be a great time to express themselves and share with friends. Some say that marijuana as part of weddings is just a trend and that it will ultimately die off. Other's are whole-heartedly embracing the idea of cannabis infused weddings.
During the month of February, I had the opportunity to be a part of Denver's 2nd ever Cannabis Wedding Expo. The incredible team of planners including Philip Wolf of Cultivating Spirits and the fabulous duo from Irie Weddings & Events; Bec Koop and Madlyne Kelly did an incredible job producing this one of a kind wedding extravaganza. Vendors from all over came together to show the couples thinking of adding marijuana into their wedding day.
Before heading off to Denver I decided it would be a good idea to plan a styled shoot that involved some of the create cannabis friendly vendors that were exhibiting at the Cannabis Wedding Expo. During the off season I enjoy putting together personal projects and thinking outside the box to show couples options. I contacted some of the vendors who were part of the Cannabis Wedding Expo and immediately the excitement grew. After some planning and giving each vendor involved the opportunity to create something they were proud to show off as their work, we were able to put together "It's Not Easy Being Greenery", an homage to the struggle to legalize cannabis and a nod to the legalization of same sex marriage less than two short years ago.
The gorgeous fireplace in the common space of Bud + Breakfast makes the perfect background for a sweet & simple elopement.
Stunning floral by Bec Koop of Irie Weddings & Events
One of a kind hair combs incorporating marijuana leaves by Janay A of High Vibe Bride
Handmade silk hemp blend dress by High Vibe Bride
Florals by Irie Weddings & Events and hand dyed ribbon for this bride's bouquet by A Ribbon's Nest
Each dress custom made by Janay A of High Vibe Bride
No better way to celebrate their nuptial than a bud bar, hosted by Irie Weddings & Events and stocked full of the best strains
A unique statement piece comes in the form of her own of My Bud Vase, for the high class glass smoker
It wouldn't be a marijuana friendly wedding without a little cannabis bud in the bouquet, both for decoration and to smoke as the day goes on thanks to Irie Weddings & Events
The Adagio Bud + Breakfast, the perfect place to plan an intimate wedding for these two brides. With a private chef on site, the food scrumptious hors d'oeuvres are great after saying their I Do's on site.
A giant THANK YOU to all of the vendors that came together to make this a possibility.
Vendor List:
Photographer & Concept Idea/Organizer: Carla Stehman | Forever Incredible Photography |773.453.5381 |@4everincredible
Wedding Planner/Florals/Bud Bar/Awesomeness: Bec Koop & Madlyne Kelly | Irie Weddings & Events | 720.460.0633 | @irieweddingsandevents
Venue: Adagio Bud + Breakfast - Denver , CO| 866.200.2837| @budnbreakfast
Dresses:​ Janay A | [email protected] |816.500.0188 | @high_vibe_bride
Cake:​ Wild Mulberry Baking Co. | Daisie Young | [email protected] | @wildmulberrybakingco
Cupcakes: Amber Cronin | The Cupcake Gypsies | [email protected] |@thecupcakegypsies
Hair Design & Makeup:​ Brytanie Dotson | Stay Classy Hair Designs | [email protected] |303.638.0745
Female Model: ​Makenzie Long | Model | |@long.kenzie
Female Model: ​Destiene Monique |Model | [email protected] | @destienemonique
Linen Rentals/Place setting Rentals/Glassware Rentals: ​AllWell Rents | [email protected] | 303.935.7705 | @allwellrentsdenver
Hand Dyed Ribbon: ​ A Ribbon’s Nest | Kim | [email protected] | @aribbonsnest
Jewelry (Engagement Rings & Wedding Bands): Celtic Eternity | Mike
Bud Vase:​ My Bud Vase | [email protected] | 803.924.1363 | @mybudvase
#BelieveinMagic 2016 World Champion Chicago Cubs
Styled Elopement Inspiration
Are you a baseball fan? Who do you stand up and cheer your heart out for? Growing up a Chicago Cubs fan I experienced so many years of heartache. Years of almost there, but not quite and then years of the worst team in the league. I never gave up on my team even when there were years I thought about it. Some of my fondest childhood memories revolved around baseball games at Wrigley Field. Like so many in Chicago and around the world; each and every year I had the hope for "next year". Hey, Eddie Vedder even wrote and recorded "All The Way" about his undying love for and faith in the Chicago Cubs.
From the start of the 2016 season I knew it was something special. Early in the summer my boyfriend and I even blocked out World Series week. With all of the magic in the air I decided not to book a wedding that weekend, just "in case" the Cubs were in it. I have always watched or listened to a lot of baseball, but during the 2016 season I just couldn't get enough of the game. With a very busy wedding season the Cubs and their announcers often kept me company while driving home from weddings were kind of my editing buddies. This was the season, there was just something magical about the mix of players and watching them each game you could tell they were out there having the time of their lives.
The Chicago Cubs ended the regular season with 103 wins and my heart soared, I knew deep down this would be the year. As the playoffs went on, my creative juices were flowing. A bit of a backstory for my inspiration; I have friends that have joked for 15 years now that when the Cubs win the World Series they will finally get married. They have joked for as long as I can remember that they would run off and elope on the day Chicago celebrates the win. This gave me an idea, what would a Chicago Cubs World Series Champion styled wedding inspiration look like. My brain was full of ideas, but being a Cubs fan and not wanting to jinx anything because of "the curse" I let the ideas bounce around in my brain and decided to hold off on acting on the ideas until they officially made all 108 outs needed to clinch the series.
During game 7 my emotions were taken on a rollercoaster ride. The Cubs started out so strong, but that 2 run homer by Rajai Davis in the bottom of the 8th had me hovering over the sink, so nauseated thinking how quickly the game had changed. I couldn't sit still and yet it was the best game I had ever watched in my entire life. Both teams played their hearts out! After the brief rain delay at the bottom of the 10th inning, one of my biggest dreams and a celebration that was 108 years in the making came true when the Chicago Cubs won the World Series.
That night, after celebrating on my balcony and with a drive around the city waving our big W flag, I laid in bed with more ideas bouncing around in my head. It was time to create the perfect Chicago Cubs wedding inspiration. I took to Pinterest to see what was out there. There were some cute ideas, but nothing as elegant and unique as I was imagining, a lot of the inspiration had a major patriotic vibe because of the red, white, and blue. As a Chicago based wedding photographer, I have some great contacts in the industry that I know for a fact are also Cubs fans and so the collaboration began. The incredible win had inspired many people in the Chicago area, I knew we needed to showcase our Cubbie love. I wanted to feature only Chicago vendors and with help from Carrie of Orchid Weddings & Events we were able to do just that.
Holy Cow!! All the hard work paid off. Please enjoy what our dream Chicago Cubs inspired wedding would look like.
Custom Chicago Cubs Colors Wedding Gown
Crystal encrusted belt
Hand tooled rings by MetalheartbyRenee
Stunning Chicago Cubs Inspired Bridal Bouquet
Anemone Creative
Chicago flag jewelry (earrings, necklace & bracelet) by LoveEmilyD
Hair & Makeup by Meghana Prasad
Just because you eloped doesn't mean you don't want to celebrate. Announce your happy news with custom Chicago Cubs baseball inspired Elopement Announcement, Reception Invitation, and RSVP Card.
Paper Suite by Your Happily Ever After
Chicago Cubs Pendant made from an actual baseball by BallHawkNet
Hand lettered bride & groom ball by DelainaJDesigns
Custom suit by ESQ Clothing
Pendant and custom made World Series 2016 cufflinks made from an actual baseball by BallHawkNet
Ivy Pipe & Drape Ceremony Altar Design by Anemone Creative
Show your Cubs love with Hashtag signs by Your Happily Ever After
"Sure as God made green apples, someday, the Chicago Cubs are going to be in the World Series." - Harry Caray
Cocktail time! Have you ever heard of a Cubbie Cooler? It is blue and red, just like the Cubs colors.
Sweetheart tablescape florals by Anemone Creative
Linens thanks to Classic Party Rentals and place setting by Orchid Weddings & Events
Fly the W "I Do" Mug by Double Dee Designs
Thank you to the entire Chicago Cubs Organization. Thank you to the Ricketts family for putting the hearts, time and money into the Cubs organization; Thank you to Theo Epstein for turning around the "loveable losers"; and thank you to the Chicago Cubs players for making it the most entertaining baseball season I have ever seen. Watching the highlights from the year (especially that final catch by Rizzo) still gets me choked up and I am sure it will for years to come.
Hit your wedding photos out of the park
Contact Forever Incredible about your Wedding Story
Thank you to my amazing boyfriend Mehul for listening to my brainstorming and being the most supportive person I have ever had in my life.
I also want to say a big thank you to all of those involved in making this styled inspiration happen. Please make sure to check out all of the creatives involved.
Vendor List:
Photographer & Co-Planning: Carla Stehman | Forever Incredible Photography |773.453.5381 |@4everincredible
Wedding Planner: Carrie Pedregosa | Orchid Weddings & Events | 815.715.0049| @orchidweddingsandevents
Venue: Shapiro Ballroom | 312.842.4798| @theshapiroballroom
Florals/Pipe & Drape: Jessica Petty Smith |Anemone Creative |872.222.7208 | @anemonechicago
Dress: Victoria Sdoukos | Victoria Sdoukos Couture | 312.226.9880 | @victoriasdoukos
Suit: Ge Wang | ESQ Clothing | 312.631.3278 | @esqclothing
Invitations: Mindy Sabo-Cox | Your Happily Ever After |@shopyourhappilyeverafter
Hand Lettering: Delaina Doshi | DelainaJDesigns | @delaina_j
Macarons: Bria Helgerson |Sugar Fixe | @sugarfixe
Cupcakes: Sweet N’ Dainty Cupcakery |@sweet_n_dainty_cupcakery
Makeup: Meghana Prasad | Meghana Prasad | 763.486.7531 | @meghana_rose
Female Model: Willow Star |Willow Star Model |@willowstar26
Male Model: Chris Maher |Chris Maher |@chrisfredmah
Linen Rentals: Classic Party Rentals | @classicparty
Jewelry (Earrings/Bracelet/Necklace): LoveEmilyD | @loveemilyd
Jewelry (Honeymoon Ring): MetalHeartbyRenee | Renee
Jewelry (Cufflinks/Bouquet Charm): BallHawkNet | Dave Davison
Signage + Glassware: Double Dee Designs
Chicago Cubs World Series Baby
Special Offer
Hey Chicago, what do you say, the Cubs are World Champs today!!!
Are you welcoming a new Chicago Cubs fan into the family this summer?
We have all heard of the "Super Bowl Baby" phenomenon. I'm sure you have probably even seen the commercials. The idea is that 9 months after a team wins a world championship; like the Super Bowl or the Word Series, there is a baby boom in the city. There anecdotal reports that Boston experienced a baby boom nine months after the Red Sox finally won the World Series in 2004. Now there hasn't been any true research, but my guess is there are quite a few babies due in the Chicago area right around July 26th.
I am a HUGE Cubs fan myself and even put together special #BelieveinMagic wedding inspiration as my own celebration.
To keep that momentum going I am offering a Birth Story Special. For those moms due around July 26th (4o weeks after the big win) I am offering a free maternity session for any birth or fresh 48 story booked with Forever Incredible. Fill out the form below for more details.
Super Bowl Babies Commercial 2016
Super Bowl Babies Commercial 2017
#Believeinmagic Sneak Peak
Chicago Cubs World Series Elopement
Styled Wedding Inspiration
Valentine's Surprise Proposal
You’ve found the person you want to spend the rest of your life with. You’ve found the perfect ring, and have the perfect plans to pop the biggest question of your life. But you don’t want the most unforgettable moment in your lives to be forgotten.
Capture your special moment and make it last with Forever Incredible.
Forever Incredible is now offering a Valentine's special for surprise proposals between February 3rd - February 14th. For $295 your surprise will be photographed, along with a 15 minute mini engagement session, an app for your phone with all of your photos, a private online gallery and my gift to you an 8x8 album so you can relive the surprise.
Hotel Allegro & Morgan Mfg
Diaries of a Second Shooter - Thank you to Jason Kaczorowski Photography for including on this beautiful day
Forever Incredible wants to hear your engagement story
Did you get something sparkly this holiday season? I want to hear all about it. Forever Incredible would be honored to tell your love story.
Contact Forever Incredible about your Wedding Story
Brandon is going to be a big brother!
Chicago Fall Gender Reveal
Elizabeth and Mike Eloped
Kane County Courthouse - Geneva, IL - Elopement
Forever Incredible has a limited number of Birth Story spots available for mom's due between in January, February and March 2017.
Amanda and her husband Stephen have five beautiful children with a sixth one on the way. When we first met to talk about maternity and birth photography, we hit it off right away. Amanda is one of the sweetest women I have met. She is a mom to two girls and three boys, with a fourth on the way. Talk about a house full of love!
This is what 15 years of true love looks like.
I had the honor of meeting six month old Violet as she was waking up from her Saturday morning nap. She is a curious little lady, with big blue eyes that melted my heart the first time I saw her.
After a quick change out of her pajamas and into her dress and leggings, it was time story time with dad.
Part of Violet's routine is breast feeding after nap time and her mom wanted to document their journey.
Laughter and kisses
The sun was shining and the birds were singing as I made the drive from Chicago to Harvard, IL for Kait & Joseph's Starline Factory wedding. I knew it was going to be a great day! Kait & Joseph are one dynamic couple, so there were definitely surprises in store for myself and the guests.
Wilder Mansion - Elmhurst, Illinois Wedding
Chicago Wedding Photographer
The forecast called for rain on Katie and Nick's wedding day.
Lindsday & Jesse's Brookfield Zoo Wedding
Chicago Wedding Photographer
The sun was shining and the birds were singing, making it a perfect day for a wedding at Brookfield Zoo. I showed up early to take another walk around the zoo. If you have never been to Brookfield Zoo, just a few miles outside city limits, it is a great place for families and for weddings. Working a wedding at Brookfield Zoo is a photographers dream because of the endless photo opportunities.
Lindsay arrived at the Brookfield Zoo Discovery Center to get ready for her big day. She had spent the morning having hair and makeup done at a local salon, so it was time to put on her dress. With the help of her mother and bridesmaids Lindsay was ready for the big reveal, meeting Jesse at the sit of their first look.
Jesse was patiently waiting for Lindsay's arrival. Some grooms are nervous as they wait, but Jesse just wanted to see his beautiful bride.
These two were nothing but smiles as they saw each other for the first time. Love and happiness oozed from these two! Our next step was exploring the zoo and all of its incredible photo opportunities. If felt like everywhere we turned, there was another great spot to capture the fun Lindsay and Jesse were having on their wedding day.
Of course we had to stop by the giraffes!
And the dolphins!
After we explored the zoo it was time for family portraits. We met the family and bridal party just north of Roosevelt Fountain.
Then it was time for the ceremony! Jesse was all smiles as his parents walked him up the aisle in front of family and friends on the south end of the Roosevelt Fountain at Brookfield Zoo. Lindsay glowed as she took her father's arm to meet Jesse to say their vows.
One of Brookfield Zoo's resident peacocks decided to join in and celebrate with the happy couple.
Lindsay and Jesse exchanged vows with and had their hands bound as part of their commitment to spend their lives together.
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After the vows were exchanged they could hardly wait for their first kiss.
We all headed over to the Great Bear Wilderness Trail on the zoo's trams. It was a quick ride, but fun for all of the guests.
The bears decided to show up as guests for Lindsay and Jesse's cocktail hour.
After cocktail hour, the guests made their way back to the Brookfield Zoo Discovery Center where they were greeted by a mariachi band.
The happy couple, Lindsay and Jesse, are big corn hole fans so they started their reception with a one on one game.
Lindsay, Jesse and their family were so fun to work; with constant smiles all day, it makes my job easy!
Wedding photographed with Carlos Ortiz Weddings.
Evanston NorthShore Hospital Birth Photography
Welcome to the world twins Madeline and Eugene
Free Chicago Engagement Session
7 days to enter!
Engagement Session Contest
New Year Wedding Photography Special
Book by January 15th to save $400
Did you get some extra sparkle on your finger this holiday season?
Do you know someone that got engagement during the holiday season?
Congratulations on your engagement and YAY for marriage!
Forever Incredible is now booking 2016 & 2017 weddings in Chicago, Tampa, and destinations worldwide.
Contact Forever Incredible about your Wedding Story
A Day in the Life of a Mother
Grace and Family
Chicago Lifestyle Family Photographer
“Sometimes when you pick up your child you can feel the map of your own bones beneath your hands, or smell the scent of your skin in the nape of his neck. This is the most extraordinary thing about motherhood - finding a piece of yourself separate and apart that all the same you could not live without.”
― Jodi Picoult, Perfect Match
The life of a mom is non-stop. From sun up to sun down, there is always something to do. From laundry, to house work, to cooking dinner and more. The work of a mother is never done. There is also the most important part of being a mom, those daily interactions with her children. The routine of reading books in bed before the day starts, or laying on the floor playing with army men. There is so much beauty in the simple moments, the moments we want to get back once children have grown up.
When I first started talking with Grace about her session, we knew we wanted to document real life. We wanted to capture the moments that will soon be gone forever so that years from now the memories can come flooding back.
Take a moment to scroll down and see what life is like for this beautiful mother.
When you live next door to Leone Beach Park on a beautiful October day, its hard to resist getting out of the house and enjoying the weather.
Erik & Stephanie Engaged!
Chicago Engagement Photographer
Did you see the fun surprise proposal at the Historic Route 66 Sign? After Erik's awesome surprise proposal to Stephanie, we decided to do a mini-engagement session walking down Historic Route 66 and then over to Millennium Park in Chicago.
Historic Route 66 Surprise Proposal
Chicago Wedding Photographer
Have I mentioned how much I love surprise proposals?
When Erik contacted me about his plans to propose to his girlfriend Stephanie, I was all in. Eric had planned to wait till next year to propose, but things just seemed to fall into place including a beautiful ring and a family reunion right after Thanksgiving. So he wanted something memorable to be the start of their new life together. You see the number 66 shows up a few times in their relationship. Their dating anniversary is June 6th (6/6) and they have driven parts of Historic Route 66 as a couple. So Erik had the fantastic idea to propose in front of the Begin Historic Route 66 sign.
The start of Historic Route 66 just happens to be in downtown Chicago at the corner of Michigan Avenue and Adams. We set it up where I would be walking around and taking photos of architecture and just happen to "catch the proposal". Erik made it possible for Stephanie to take the day off and they decided to see some of the Chicago sights. On their way home Erik had it planned for them to stop and take a quick selfie in front of the sign.
As the pulled up. the time had come!! The look on Stephanie's face as Erik drops to one knee and asks for her hand in marriage is priceless. And did you guess her response? Stephanie said yes!!
Happy Third Anniversary Angela and Phil
Siesta Key destination wedding
Why does birth photography cost so much?
Chicago Birth Photographer
This morning I received an inquiry about birth photography. The mom’s first question was cost. I do have my starting price on my website so people can have a beginning gauge, but this mom-to-be was only concerned about the dollar and cents of it. So I decided to deviate from my normal process where I get to know the client and find out why they are considering birth photography, and instead I jumped right into pricing. Her immediate reaction was sticker shock; she spent the next few minutes complaining that most of the professional birth photographers she had researched cost the same as her monthly mortgage payment.
I could tell right away that there was no changing this woman’s mind, she ended the conversation by telling me, “I’ll just buy a fancy camera like you and have my husband do it.” An immediate feeling of sadness washed over me, not because I was not booking her birth, but because I had a feeling she wouldn’t end up with the story of her daughter’s birth told through photographs like she was hoping.
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So the questions remains, what is behind the price of birth photography? Or, as this morning’s inquiry asked, but never let me answer, “Why is birth photography so expensive?”
So let’s talk about it!
When you ask people about the most important day of their lives, they often say that it was the day they got married or the day their child was born.
For many people, the last time they paid for professional photography was for their wedding. People expect to pay money for beautiful, emotional wedding photographs.. They are spending a lot of money on their celebration, and they want it documented to be able to look back and remember the beginning of their lives together. They often want a keepsake album that will be their first family heirloom, and many couples want prints and digital negatives from their big day. People understand that when it comes to weddings, photography is going to cost, and they are willing to pay for quality and experience.
I recently heard a quote by Portland birth and wedding photographer Lexia Frank that really struck me:
“Shooting a birth is like getting an inquiry from a bride saying that she wants you to come photograph her wedding, but isn’t going to set a date. She’ll just call you whenever. and when you ask her how many hours of coverage she would like, she says she’s not sure, probably around 24, but maybe only 2.
And you ask her when she’d like for you to start coverage and she says she won’t know, but probably around 2am. And also, that she doesn’t want any use of flash. So when you ask her if there will be bountiful natural light she says that she’ll be getting married in a dark closet with no light whatsoever. And, she’s going to want the images right away to send out announcements. AND you’re not going to be able to use them anywhere on your website or blog because she wants to keep her privacy intact. We’d all be quoting this bride $50,000.00.”
Of course I don’t charge $50,000 for birth photography, but Lexia Frank’s words do a good job of putting birth photography into perspective.
In the Chicagoland area, birth photography seems to finally be picking up in popularity. Hospitals, birth centers, midwives and doulas are more and more accepting of having births documented, and birth photographers are becoming more welcome in the delivery room.
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Birth photographers must have a technical knowledge of photography and they must know their equipment and have backup equipment. They must understand lighting and be steady and comfortable working in tight spaces. Birth photographers must know how to read a room and be respectful of their clients in some of the most intimate and emotional experiences of their lives. Birth photographers also need to understand the birth process. Of course we aren’t hands on, but we still need to know what is happening each step of the way.
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Being a birth photographer also means being “on call.” Let me explain what that means: when I get the call that one of my clients is in active labor, I have to drop everything to document the birth. Personally, I go on call for my clients at their 38th week of pregnancy (36 weeks for twins), and I stay on call till baby is born. This means that during my on-call period, at any moment I may have to drop whatever I am doing to attend a birth. It also means that I can’t travel too far from where client will be delivering; I have to be careful of what other jobs I book because they may have to be rescheduled; I may miss important events with friends and family; my gear and backup gear has to be with me anywhere I go; I can’t have a glass of wine or a drink with friends because I just don’t know when the call is going to come; I often have to turn down last-minute plans because I am waiting on that “it’s time” phone call from my client. Most of my birth clients book months before their due date, so it means blocking up to a month of time.
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Being on call can be stressful, and it’s not easy on friends and family that love me. They all know that when I have to choose between a special event or one of my clients going into labor, my client is going to come first. My time with each client can be as short as 2 hours or as long as 22 hours. Birth is unique and unpredictable every single time!
Still, I just love it! I love that I am always technically challenged with different lighting situations every time. I love the tender touches as partners support each other through labor. I love documenting the hard work and sheer determination it takes to birth a child. I love capturing the moment baby takes its first breath. I love the raw emotions as a mom sees the little life she created for the first. I love the moment when the dad realizes he is a father and this is his newborn baby. I love documenting the start or addition to this new family that will be treasured, a reminder of the joy they felt on that day as their child grows.
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I can’t help it, but there are often tears of joy streaming down my face behind the camera because I have witnessed a beautiful miracle. There is nothing like it.
Birth is also not like other photography because I can’t book multiple sessions per day or even per week. My personal rule is to accept up to 3 birth clients per month. Just in case one goes into labor late and one goes into labor early, I always have a trusted backup photographer on call with me.
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Birth photography is not for everyone. I often receive crazy looks when I tell people that I am a birth photographer. But those that do “get it” truly value the ability to relive the precious moments of the birth of their child. They understand that to serve them, it may mean a sacrifice on my part. Many see birth photography as a luxury, and I believe it is. Having a professional birth photographer means labor support for the mom is uninterrupted and free from the worry of who is going to capture those memories.
Being a birth photographer will not make me rich in terms of money, but it does enrich my life in so many intangible ways. I appreciate each and every client that values me, my time, and my work.
If you are interested in having your birth story told Contact Forever Incredible about your Birth Story
Chicago Wedding Photographer Now Booking 2016 and 2017 Weddings
Are you newly engaged and planning a wedding for 2016 or 2017? Forever Incredible is now booking!
Isabelle's Baptism
Mary Seat of Wisdom - Park Ridge, Illinois
It was a beautiful fall day for Isabelle's baptism at Mary Seat of Wisdom Catholic Church in Park Ridge, Illinois. Family gathered from near and far to celebrate the new little life and her welcome into the Catholic Church.
Cyber Monday Wedding Photography Deal
Save up to $825 on your Wedding Photography
Now Booking Tampa Bay Area & Orlando Holiday Sessions
Sessions available November 29th & 30th
Forever Incredible is now booking 2016 & 2017 Weddings
Chicago & Destination Wedding Photographer
Surprise Proposal at Chicago Botanic Garden
"Love is a game that two can play and both win." --Eva Gabor
When I received the first call from Oswaldo, I knew I wanted to be be a part of his surprise proposal to his girlfriend Cindy. He had been doing a lot of research and had a location picked at the Chicago Botanic Garden where he planned to get down on one knee and ask the woman he loves to marry him.
Over the next month Oswaldo and I touched base to make sure everything would be perfect. The night before his surprise Chicago experienced a cold front and quite a bit of rain, but I kept checking the radar and had a feeling that the surprise would go off without a hitch.
The original plan was to meet at 10am so that the garden wouldn't be as busy. I was there bright and early, waiting for them!! But Cindy had other plans, like sleeping in and taking it easy. It was right at noon when Cindy and Oswaldo made their appearance at the gardens. I did my best to keep my distance and photograph the flowers so she wouldn't be spooked by some woman with a camera taking photos of them.
Oswaldo wanted his proposal to be on the bridge to the Japanese Garden, so I kept myself hidden behind a tree till it was time. The sun was overhead and the bridge was full of people, but he was ready to profess his love to Cindy.
Of course she said, "YES!!!"
To celebrate Oswaldo and Cindy indulged me with a mini-engagement session around the garden.
Fresh 24 - Evanston Hospital
"A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities." --Eda J Le Shan
Engagement season is upon us! The holidays are filled with surprise proposals while gathered with family and friends.
Forever Incredible is now booking Chicago area and destination wedding for 2016 and 2017.
Inquire today and let your love story be Forever Incredible.
Daxius Jasper
Chicago Lifestyle Newborn Photography
Daxius Jasper couldn't wait to be born!! He decided to make his appearance into this world 5 weeks early on September 21st after his sweet momma endured a 36 hour labor. Born at 10:35pm and weighing in at 4 pounds 6 ounces and 16.5 inches long he was ready to see the world!!
I was hoping to meet Daxius at West Suburban Medical Center where he was born, but he needed a few days in the NICU. So just a week after he was born I met Daxius and his family at their home on the north side of Chicago.
Chicago Area Fall Mini Sessions
What: 30 minutes of shooting time. Since these are smaller sessions, they can only be used for immediate family (or engaged couples). It’s the perfect opportunity to get a family Christmas card photo, maternity announcement, engagement photo, or even a high senior photo. Each session comes with twenty digital files of your choosing and the opportunity to purchase additional prints or files (but no required minimum purchase!).
When: Sessions accepted October 1, 2015 through December 15, 2015.
Where: All mini-sessions will be held at a predetermined location of my choosing that is within the city of between October 1, 2015 through December 15, 2015. The location will be full of beautiful fall foliage, greenery, and convenient parking close by. ***Sessions outside of Chicago will incur a travel fee.***
Happy First Birthday Namya
Yellow Ducky Chicago Home Birthday Party
I love parties!! Especially parties to celebrate birthdays and 1st birthdays are extra special!!
It was so much fun to document the yellow ducky decorations, clown and guests for Namya's 1st birthday at her Chicago home.
Happy First Birthday Zoey James
Windy City Fieldhouse Birthday Party
It is hard to believe that it has been one whole year since I documented Zoey James and her first few hours of life at Swedish Covenant in Chicago.
To celebrate Zoey's first year of life, family and friends from near and far gathered at the Windy City Fieldhouse in Chicago. With space for kids to run, play, hola hoop, and ride tricycles, along with room for tables, chairs and food, Windy City Fieldhouse was the perfect location for this joyous celebration!
Jessi & JonMarke are having a baby!!
Journey to Parenthood - Austin Gardens Park, Oak Park
Chicago Maternity Photographer
It was an absolute joy to meet Jessi and JonMarke as they awaited the arrival of their precious daughter. I've been following Jessi's DIY blog, Practically Functional for a while now and love all of the great ideas she has! So I knew we would have a blast documenting her journey to motherhood.
Carillo family fun along the Manatee River - Downtown Bradenton, FL
One of the hardest things about moving from the Tampa Bay area in Florida to Chicago was leaving my amazing clients behind. I have been a lucky girl to develop real relationships with so many of my clients, whom I consider friends.
Back in 2012 I photographed Tomas and Monica's beautiful wedding at Holy Cross Church in Palmetto and Bradenton Area Convention Center for the reception. Life has changed and they now have the cutest little boy, so while in town it was time for family portraits.
Happy 4th Anniversary Brian and Suzanne!!
Its hard to believe that 4 years have gone by since Brian and Suzanne were married. Their beautiful church ceremony and club house ceremony was full of love and laughter. Here's to many more years of love, laughter, happiness and being together!!
Diana & Haesi's Maternity Session - Buffalo Park Forest Preserve - Algonquin, IL
Diana and I started talking about her maternity session a few weeks before we met on Wednesday evening in early July. We talked about including nature and pretty soft colors, maybe even a flowered headpiece. The fabulous Flowers by Geo in Arlington Heights, IL offered to be a part of our vision and created a stunning floral headpiece with roses and greenery.
Even with all of the planning, our session turned out to be on a rainy evening, but we decided to that we could make some beautiful photographs together in between the rain drops.
TRAVEL ANNOUNCEMENT
I will be in Florida July 26th-July 31st and offering discounted sessions during my stay. If you are interested in setting up a session of any kind, email me at [email protected]! Would love to work together.
****If you know someone in the Tampa or Orlando area that you think may be interested - please share this post!
Chicago Model Katie Coleman - Cafe Brauer & Lincoln Park Zoo
One a clear April evening I met up with Chicago model, Katie Coleman at Cafe Brauer. The goal was make a new headshot for her portfolio. What was supposed to be a quick 30 minute session turned into a full 90 minute session, including a wardrobe change. With a megawatt smile, it was impossible to get a bad photo of Katie.
It is Beach Time!!!
Hey Florida Friends!!!!! I am so excited that in just a few short weeks I will be back to warm weather and beaches. It has been way too long since I put my feet in the sand.
While I am visiting Florida, I would LOVE to photograph you and your families. I'm still working on my schedule for the week long visit, so please send me an e-mail at [email protected] if you are interested in scheduling an engagement, maternity, family, Beloved, or just because session while I am in town.
~~~ Available July 26th - July 31st ~~~
****Please feel free to share with friends and family that may be looking for a photographer.****
LOVE WINS!!
As I heard the news this morning, I couldn't help but cry tears of joy. Tears of joy for those who have waited and fought for so long to have equal rights. Tears of joy because love won!!
Happy 5th Anniversary Corey & Amy
DoubleTree Beach Resort by Hilton Hotel Tampa Bay - North Redington Beach
It was a hot Florida day for Corey & Amy's DoubleTree Beach Resort by Hilton Hotel Tampa Bay - North Redington Beach
These lovebirds flew in with their closest family and friends for a special wedding on North Redington Beach.
Pierre & Jazmin Maternity Session
It is always an honor to be chosen to photograph a momentous occasion in someone's life, but it is extra special when the people I am photographing are lifelong friends.
Pierre and I have been friends as long as I can remember. Back then he preferred to be called Aldrich, which is his middle name. Pierre's grandma brought him to Sabbath school when we were really little and we went to grade school at North Shore Jr. Academy together from first grade on.
Ida & Brynn's Celebration at Bistronomic Chicago
There is nothing more precious than a new life coming into the world. There are times when a birthday is even more special because it is shared. You see little Miss Brynn was born on her great grandma Ida's 99th birthday. Something special like that deserves a celebration. When Brynn's mom, Julia contacted me and told me about what they had planned, I knew it would be a joy to join this family as they celebrated Ida turning 99 years old and Brynn's traditional Jewish baby naming ceremony.
The special joint celebration was planned one of my favorite French restaurants in Chicago, Bistronomic with family coming from near and far to join in on the festivities. It was the first time many of the family were meeting little Brynn, including her grandma, who couldn't get enough of Brynn's sweet face.
The family enjoyed time mingling and catching up over brunch. Everyone wanted to meet little Brynn and wish Ida a Happy 99th Birthday!!
Next it was time for the official ceremony. Brynn was wiped out and slept trough the whole thing.
To see more of the family fun go to their gallery - HERE
Ahmad and Victoria's Alhambra Palace Restaurant Chicago Engagement Party
On a chilly January night in Chicago friends and family gathered to celebrate Ahmad and Victoria's engagement.
At Home with Jacob
Chicago Newborn Lifestyle Photographer
It was very late at night when Javane and Samandra welcomed their precious son Jacob into the world. Weight in at 7lbs, Jacob was born at 11:44pm on October 15, 2014 at Evanston Hospital - North Shore University Healthsystem.
Rust Family Fall Mini-Sessions - Frankfort, IL
It was a bright sunny Saturday morning when I made the forty-five minute drive down to the beautiful Village of Frankfort, IL for the first of our morning mini-sessions. Sometimes it feels good to go for a drive and get out of the city and mini-sessions were a perfect excuse to do just that.
The Rust family had nabbed our earliest spot. When little Miss M arrived with her parents she was a bit shy, so we decided to let her run and play. It wasn't long before she loosened up and had some fun. Here are a few of my favorites that show how much little Miss M is loved by her parents. Enjoy!
Baby Zoey James Birth Story
September 9, 2014 was a warm rainy day in Chicago, but more importantly it was the day Zoey James was born at Swedish Covenant Hospital on the north side of Chicago, Illinois.
What made the birth of this little lady so special is that I have known her Momma Sharon my entire life. Sharon was always one of the older cool kids, but once you grow up, the less that matters.
Bridal Inspiration at Crowne Plaza Chicago Metro Downtown
Our original plan was s pretty tea party in a Chicago park, but things don't always go as planned.
Learn more about the Crowne Plaza Chicago Metro Downtown
Estelle's 70th Birthday Celebration at Da Luciano Pizza Pasta & Catering
When it comes to your mother, only the best will do. So when it came to her 70th birthday, we knew nothing less than surprise party would work for such an amazing woman.
My brother Steven and I began discussing the surprise party idea over a year before her 70th birthday, but it took a good 4 months to plan all of the details. Our first step was nailing down a location. Da Luciano's is one of our favorite places to go as a family. They have absolutely the best Italian food in the Chicagoland area, plus the owners are some of the sweetest people you will ever meet.
I had chosen a pretty mauve floral invitation with a picture of when of when my mom was a child and ordered it from Vista Print.
The next step was decor. I have seen the on going work of an amazing floral designer, Designs by Rosa many times over the years and went directly to her to capture something that matched the feel of the invitation.
Hunter & Heather Tie the Knot
The night before Hunter and Heather's wedding there was a downpour. My fingers were cross all morning that the storms would stay away for their wedding day.
Young love is a beautiful thing.
I love referrals! Suzanne was a referral from a sweet couple Andy and Kate that I photographed just over a year ago in June 2010. It means so much to me when couples love their wedding photos and want to share their experience with friends and family.
When I met with Suzanne and her mom Lorraine to discuss the wedding, both ladies had already seen my work and knew they wanted me to be their to photographer. So after we went over pricing, we took time to chat and talk about the wedding details. You see both Suzanne and her mom Lorraine are both big into scrap booking, which meant there were going to be a LOT of handmade details to her wedding. They were both taking time and care to make this a very special day.
Brian and Suzanne met online, where their love for each other blossomed with chats, phone calls and eventually a visit to where Brian was station in Virginia. Their marriage also means that Suzanne would be moving far away from family and close friends. So the event was filled with loved ones from near and far. What made things even more special is that Suzanne's father, Pastor Rob McKinney was going to walk his daughter down the aisle and then perform the ceremony. It was truly a beautiful day!
Suzanne had her hair done and did her make-up with the help of her bridesmaids.
Steven & Diana's
University of Tampa and Downtown Tampa Engagement Session
Steve & Diana found me through TheKnot.com as they were looking for an engagement photographer. They recently moved to Tampa together for job opportunity, leaving family and friends behind in Wisconsin.
Nick & Kristy's Love Story - Bradenton, FL
The sun was shining without a cloud in the sky, a perfect day for a wedding at The Riverhouse Reef & Grill in Bradenton, FL.
Derek & Mendy's Saddlebrook Resort Tampa Wedding
June 18, 2010
Mendy and Derek are such a sweet couple. When I first met them to talk about their wedding and all the plans they were making, you could tell they just oozed love for each other. They have been together for a while and even work together at the Disney Reservation Center. Mendy's sweet gentle spirit is what caught Derek's eye and the rest is history.
The beautiful Saddlebrook Resort just outside of Tampa, FL was the side of Derek and Mendy's wedding.
To get ready for her big day, Mendy got ready in one of the lovely resort suites and had her flower girl along side as the make-up artist made her look like a goddess.
Vernon & Nadia's University of South Florida Wedding
Marc & Melissa's Don Vincente de Ybor Historic Inn Wedding
April 23, 2010
It was an overcast Friday in April for Marc and Melissa's Don Vincente de Ybor Historic Inn Wedding. Melissa had contacted me just two weeks prior to her wedding when the original photographer they hired fell through. I was happy to help in anyway possible and worked out something special just for them.
As I arrived the beautiful Melissa was getting ready in the bridal suite. Her best friend Mary had just finished helping her with hair and makeup, while her stunning strapless chiffon dresses was delicately laid on the bed, waiting for her to step into it.