Maggi Family Session | Illinois River

For the Maggi family pictures, we headed up to Granville, Illinois, where we were able to use a piece of property owned by the family. The location was right on the Illinois river and felt absolutely magical. It was like stepping through the wardrobe into a little slice of Narnia where you would least expect it. The water was calm and reflective, and you could tell that the family enjoyed being there together. I love being able to shoot in locations that are unexpected or that transport you to somewhere else.

This family is near and dear to my heart. Mom, Lauren, is also a photographer. Not only does she take incredible birth photos, but she is also a talented doula and is in school to be a midwife. She is absolutely incredible. She works hard at everything she does and is always ready to speak up for what she believes in. Her family means everything to her, and she and her incredibly supportive husband have created a beautiful life for their children. It was truly an honor to be asked to photograph this family.

We started out in the grass by the river, taking standard family portraits like always. However, once we got to the muddy beach, we were able to play. It is incredible when a family can connect in a way that makes you forget that they are being photographed, and that is exactly what happened in this session. We were able to capture so many authentic moments between the five of them (and their two fur babies). The family splashed in the river, and the kids dug around in the mud. It was such a fun and carefree session.

Another thing that I loved about this family session was the outfits. It is a common misconception that everyone needs to be dressed in fancy, uncomfortable clothes that look perfect. I would much rather have clients come in clothes that reflect their personalities and make them feel comfortable. When everyone feels like themselves in their picture outfits, the photos are so much more natural and meaningful to look back on years later. The Maggi girls wore beautiful flowy summer dresses that were so fun to spin around in, and their little brother wore cotton shorts and no shirt. It was the perfect look for these riverside portraits. I loved working with this Illinois family and documenting this special time in their lives.