Where are you located?

My studio is in Morton Grove, Illinois. I am conveniently located between Chicago and the North Shore suburbs. The lower level of my house has been permanently converted to a studio. Since I work from home by appointment only, I will provide a map once an appointment is scheduled.

My kids won't sit still. What should I do?

In advance of the appointment, do not make a big deal about the photo session. Simply telling them that they are going to go and play sets a great mood for them. Try not to build it up out of proportion -- a simple mention once or twice is enough.

One of the most interesting parts of photographing babies and children is that no two sessions are alike, and I really never know what to expect! A baby can be grumpy one minute and cooing the next. I do a pretty good job of making a fool of myself because very often that's what it takes to make a great portrait.

Do you have some general tips to make my child's portrait session more successful?

Of course!

If by chance your child refuses to put something on or do something you want done related to the session, ignore it until you get to the studio. Many times we can get something done here that simply won't happen at home.

During the session, it is best to follow my lead. I will always ask you for assistance if I feel I need some help, but in most situations it is best to remain silent and allow me to capture your child's attention. If too many people are talking to the child at once, telling him to smile, or otherwise distracting him, he won't know what to do or where to look.

If you or your baby is ill, please reschedule. I am a parent myself and will certainly understand. An ill child will photograph as that child feels.

What about bringing along my older child to my newborn's session?

I love getting the new big brother or big sister into the pictures. They should wear very simple clothing. If the big brother or sister is really still a baby him or herself, matching onsies, or matching bare chests, make a great picture.

What about bringing along my older child to my maternity session?

Yes, yes, absolutely include your older child/children in your maternity portraits! We will do those poses right away when you arrive while your children are still fresh and patient. Please plan to bring along a friend or relative who can then take the kids so that you and your spouse can relax for the remainder of the session. This will allow us to capture the best images.

What if my infant is fussy and needs to eat during the session?

No problem. It is common for infants to eat in the middle of their photo session, but for your baby's comfort please feed them immediately before the session too. A baby with a full tummy is a happy baby. If baby needs a bottle or to nurse, we can take a short break. I nursed 2 babies, so I can relate to the stage where it feels like you never stop nursing. If that is where you are with the nursing thing, I totally understand.

What do you recommend we wear?

I suggest you keep it simple and solid. Avoid bold patterns, as they tend to distract from the subject. Many brands of children's shoes and socks have logos on the bottom, so I often prefer to photograph children with bare feet.

In a family portrait, proper clothing coordination is critical. Choose colors in the same tonal range so that no single individual stands out. I suggest laying out everyone's clothes on a bed and removing any items that stand out from the others. In addition, include socks and shoes and keep them in harmony with the clothing selections.

Regarding baby portraits -- Very young babies look best simply as nature intended. Nothing beats the simple beauty of smooth baby skin. And don't worry because I am prepared for all accidents! Knit hats that fit your baby are great. Also wonderful to photograph with babies are any blankets, quilts, or afghans that have been made for them. Texture is wonderful in black and white; pattern is not good.

For parents participating in a baby's session -- Again, simple is best. You will be a backdrop for some of the pictures, so please wear a solid color. Your hands will be in the pictures-- French manicures look better than dark nail polish. Mom may also wish to bring a tube top or tank top if she would like a bare shoulder pose with her naked baby.

For more detailed information on clothing suggestions for maternity portraits, please click here.

What kind of headshots do you do?

I have professional headshots for real estate agents and mortgage brokers, business people, and actors, as well as more casual headshots for online dating galleries. If there is something special you are looking for, please call to discuss.

What's the deal with your boudoir gallery? Aren't you a family photographer?

The idea for this type of photography came about when a client approached me about it. I had done portraits of her children in the past, and she wanted to do some private and special photos of herself for her husband. We worked together to create fun, sexy, sensual images that she and her husband both loved. This type of photography is indeed a wonderful gift "for the man who has everything", a wedding gift from a bride to her groom, or simply a great way to simply celebrate your femininity.

My reputation as a child and family photographer has actually helped me with this new venture. My goal is to work with you to create images that are classy and tasteful, yet still sensual.

Note that these private photo sessions are not for men (as subjects). Also, these sessions are ABSOLUTELY NOT for pornography or fetish photography. If you are looking for that type of thing, please find yourself another photographer.

How quickly will I see my proofs and have my final prints?

The answer to this depends on the time of year, how busy things are at the studio, and the complexity of the order (example: is it loose prints, or custom framing). I am a "one woman show", so to speak. I conduct the sessions, prepare the proofs, do all of the photo retouching, framing, and pretty much everything else that is needed around here to ensure your satisfaction. At slower times of the year, I may be able to complete an order within 3 weeks or less. During busier times of the year such as Christmas it may take up to 8 weeks to receive your order. But please know that I handle each and every order personally with great attention to detail and quality. Your portraits are an investment and an heirloom that should not be rushed.