Oh, baby Cameron! I just cannot get enough of his sweet smiles and handsome face. At seven months old, this little guy has officially mastered the art of charming everyone he meets. And let me tell you—I’m first in line. Thankfully, Brittany and Ryan chose a milestone photography package, meaning I get to see this lovable crew on repeat. I’ve been enjoying each sweet stage of Cameron’s first year. Honestly, family photography is the best gig ever. If you’re in need of a little pick me up or inspiration, this adorable Chicago lakefront family session will keep you smiling.
Celebrating Brittany’s First Mother’s Day (cue happy tears)
This particular session was extra special because Brittany was celebrating her very first Mother’s Day the day after. And oh man, did Cameron show up ready to celebrate his mama. Between his giggles, grins, and snuggles, he was all in.
We chose to take their session outdoors because springtime in Chicago deserves to be celebrated. If you know me, you know I’m obsessed with spring. Cherry blossoms. Tulips. Sunny mornings by the lake. It’s like the city wakes up from a long nap and decides to put on a show just for us. And can we talk about Cameron’s tiny denim jacket? He looked like he was taking Brittany out for a little picnic date, seven-month-old style. My heart practically burst.
Lakeside Strolls & Quiet Moments
Since it was such a gorgeous sunny day, and Cam was so happy, we decided to stretch out our session and head down to the lake. Now, I know what you’re thinking. Midday sun? With a baby? Bold move. But hear me out—sometimes schedules just don’t bend easily to golden hour timing, and that’s okay.
The lakefront proved to be magical. With the water sparkling and the sky impossibly blue, we leaned into that bright, clean aesthetic and found spots that complemented the light instead of competing with it. The lake behind them almost looked like an artist had painted it in gentle stripes of blue, green, and tan. Exactly the palette we were going for. Cameron was loving every second, giggling as Brittany and her husband made faces and tickled his tiny toes.
Moments like these are why I love lifestyle sessions. They’re messy, joyful, and real. It’s not about perfection; it’s about connection. The way Cameron snuggled into Brittany’s chest, the wind gently messing up their hair, the sun sneaking kisses onto their cheeks—that’s the stuff that matters. Those are the photos you’ll reach for again and again, because they feel like home.
Tips for Taking Midday Photos (without weird shadows or squinty eyes)
Of course, I’d love to be the one who steps behind the camera to capture your family’s moments. But let’s face it—not every memory you want to document happens during professional photo shoots. Sometimes you’re just strolling along during your normal routine or family outing. And that midday sun can be unforgiving.
So here’s how to embrace the sunlight and still get gorgeous photos:
Find open shade
Look for overhangs, tree cover, or the shady side of a building. Shade softens the harsh sun without losing brightness altogether.
Embrace backlighting
Position your child so the sun is behind them. It gives photos a lovely glow and prevents squinty eyes. Just tap their face on your phone screen to brighten them up!
Use props
Hats, sunglasses, umbrellas, or picnic blankets not only diffuse harsh light but also add personality to your shots.
Adjust angles
Move your body around instead of forcing your little one to reposition. Changing your angle even slightly can make all the difference.
Reimagine “perfect”
Honestly, messy hair, slobbery kisses, sticky fingers, and windblown outfits make photos real—and that’s what you’ll love most down the road. Embrace the chaos! It tells a better story anyway. (Just check out Cam’s cute windswept hairdo and squishy face at the end of their lakefront family session as proof!)
Celebrate the Simple Magic of Everyday Love
Watching Brittany glow as she experienced her first Mother’s Day…it hit me all over again how incredible these stages truly are. Those early months with your baby feel both endless and fleeting—filled with wonder, exhaustion, and pure love.
Life is busy, messy, and sometimes challenging. But these everyday moments—the quiet cuddles, silly smiles, and sleep-deprived giggles—are the ones that give meaning to all the chaos. I can’t thank the Hopper family enough for trusting me to document these milestones.
Dreaming of a Lakefront Family Session?
If you find yourself wanting to capture your own story, I’m here and ready with camera in hand. Whether it’s a special milestone or a random Tuesday, I’d love to help you celebrate the magic of your family’s everyday love.
Here’s to warm spring days, lakeside strolls, and mamas celebrating their first (or fifth, or fifteenth!) Mother’s Day. You’re doing a beautiful job.
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