The Joy of Family Photoshoots

You know what I love more than a lifestyle newborn session full of sleepy snuggles and precious wrinkles? A newborn session with the whole crew! I get it, planning out hair and outfits might have your sleep-deprived head spinning, but hear me out – doing the session together is so worth it.

I’ve got you covered in the planning department, and I’ll even pick out your clothes if you want me to. But I assure you, you will be SO glad you opted for a family session when you see the way you love each other as I do behind the lens. The overflowing joy and warmth simply outshines everything else, even the exhaustion.

This heart-melting family session is the perfect proof. If you know me, you know relationships are everything – that’s a big part of why I became a photographer. I love honoring friendship, family, and life through my lens. So, it probably comes as no surprise that I have some fun history with this particular family too.

Capturing Precious Moments

I played lacrosse with Erika in college at the University of Illinois, so I was ecstatic to catch up with my long-time friend and capture her two beautiful little girls. Amazingly, this baby girl, Kyla, brightened the world on March 15th, almost two years to the day from her big sister Penelope’s birthday on March 16th, 2021. I have a feeling it’s a sign that they’ll be close, although I’m sure there will come a time when they want their own birthday parties.

We did their newborn session at their home in Skokie, Illinois, and I’m a huge fan of lifestyle newborn and family sessions. With a lifestyle newborn session, you have everything you need right at your fingertips – including outfits, props, and special heirlooms like Erika’s grandmother’s gorgeous bassinet, which was featured in both girls’ sessions. Big sister Penelope actually slept in it when she was a newborn, and we’ll see what Baby Kyla thinks of it.

Snuggling the Whole Crew

Kyla is oh-so-cute, from her full head of hair and froggy legs to her deep blue eyes and tiny button nose. It was hard not to keep clicking away for more photos, although a big part of me wanted to scoop her up for a little snuggle. And to make it even sweeter, Penelope is a darling big sister with lots of kisses for little sis and little “shhhs” when we were being too loud. She’s already got the role down pat, and both girls did a fantastic job during the session, even mastering the wardrobe change into their “Big Sis” and “Lil’ Sis” shirts like pros.

I think Penelope is quite fond of her new title – at two years old, she’s already such a kind big helper. While Big Sister loves the limelight and takes an active role in caring for her baby sister, their cat Cora prefers to pop in for a priceless photobomb now and then. Getting beloved pets in your photos is just another perk of doing a lifestyle newborn session.

A New Chapter, Captured

It has been so special to go from teammates on the lacrosse field to “mom-ing” together with Erika. We may spend more time cradling babies than lacrosse sticks, but I’m all the more honored to have captured a new chapter in their family’s story not only once, but twice now.

Snuggling up with your little ones and creating memories that will last a lifetime – that’s what a family photoshoot at Sofa Spectacular is all about. Whether you’re welcoming a new addition or celebrating your growing crew, let’s plan a session that’s as unique and special as your family. Cheers to this beautiful family of four, and to many more snuggle sessions to come!

The Perks of an In-Home Session

One of the biggest advantages of an in-home newborn or family session is the comfort and convenience it provides. Lifestyle sessions allow you to relax in your own space, surrounded by the familiar sights and sounds that make your house a home. There’s no need to worry about packing up the kids, finding the perfect location, or dealing with the hassle of getting everyone ready and out the door.

Instead, I come to you, capturing the natural interactions and genuine moments that unfold organically. Your whole crew, from parents and siblings to furry friends and grandparents, can join in the fun without any added stress. Babies are happiest when held and never forced into uncomfortable positions, so an in-home session is the perfect way to document their first days in a low-pressure, comfortable environment.

Preserving Precious Memories

But the true magic of an in-home session lies in the way it allows me to truly capture the essence of your family. I don’t just shoot what it looks like, I shoot what it feels like – the subtle movements, expressions, sounds, and gestures that can’t be fully conveyed in a single image. These are the moments that will become your most treasured memories, the ones you’ll want to relive again and again.

That’s why I place such a strong emphasis on print products in my collections. All that time and money invested deserve a better return than photos gathering dust on a hard drive somewhere. You’ll never get the same feeling looking at your images on a screen as you will seeing them on your wall or flipping through the pages of an album. That’s why I include a substantial print credit with every session, ensuring you can bring those precious moments to life in a tangible, meaningful way.

Capturing Your Unique Story

Whether you’re welcoming a new baby, celebrating a milestone, or simply wanting to document the everyday magic of your family, an in-home photoshoot is the perfect way to preserve your story. From newborns to multi-generational gatherings, I’ve had the honor of capturing countless families in the comfort of their own homes, and I can’t wait to work with you too.

So, let’s plan a session that’s as unique and special as your crew. We’ll choose outfits that complement your home’s aesthetic, incorporate your favorite family heirlooms, and even sneak in a few furry friends for good measure. The only thing you have to worry about is soaking up all the love – I’ll handle the rest. Get in touch today to reserve your date and start planning your very own snuggle session!