Embracing Empathy in Family Photography


Photographed by Thomas | © 2020 TK Photography | www.tkphotographychicago.com

Introduction: Embracing Empathy in Family Photography

Photography is more than just capturing images; it’s about capturing emotions, stories, and the unique dynamics of each family. At TK Photography, we understand that every family comes with its own set of experiences and expectations. Recognizing this, we strive to create an environment where every family feels welcomed and valued, no matter their story. In this blog, we delve into how an empathetic, child-centered approach can transform family photography sessions into memorable experiences.

Understanding and Adapting to Family Dynamics

Every family that steps into our studio brings a unique set of experiences. Some of our most cherished clients include neurodiverse children and those with special needs. These families often tell us they choose TK Photography because we truly see their child and meet them where they are.

Our focus is not on capturing a preconceived image of who a child should be, but on embracing and highlighting who they are. We believe in capturing the authentic spirit and personality of every child, understanding that beauty and joy are found in the genuine moments of connection and expression.

It’s our privilege to create a space where children can be themselves, without the pressure of expectations. We find that when children are comfortable and free to express themselves, the photos capture not just a moment, but the essence of who they are.

Creating a Welcoming Environment for All Families

At TK Photography, we pride ourselves on creating an environment that is not just welcoming but also understanding of each family’s unique journey. We know that the moments leading up to a photography session can be filled with unexpected challenges. Whether it’s sleep deprivation, the stress of planning, or the unpredictability of a child’s mood, we are prepared and empathetic.

Our philosophy is simple: families should feel welcomed exactly as they are. There’s no need for pretense or worry about fitting a certain mold. We celebrate the chaos, the unplanned moments, and the spontaneous laughter that often accompany family sessions. This approach allows us to relieve stress for families, assuring them that we are here to capture their real, unfiltered joy.

Capturing the Unique Joy and Character of Each Family

Our goal in every session is to capture the true joy and character of each family. We understand that these moments do not occur in isolation. The days and hours before the session, the tiny but significant events in a family’s life, all contribute to the story we aim to capture through our lenses.

We are not just photographers; we are storytellers who use our cameras to celebrate the uniqueness of each family. We recognize that the beauty of a family photo lies not in perfection, but in capturing the genuine essence of relationships and individual personalities.

A Special Note on Professionalism and Adaptability

Professionalism in family photography extends beyond technical skill with a camera. It encompasses the ability to adapt to the unique needs and dynamics of each family. This adaptability is especially crucial when working with neurodiverse children or those with special needs.

We approach each session with a flexible mindset, ready to adjust our techniques to suit the comfort and preferences of each child and family. Our team is trained to recognize and respect the individuality of every child, ensuring a positive and enjoyable experience for all.

Photographed by Sam | © 2019 TK Photography | www.tkphotographychicago.com

Conclusion and Call to Action

In conclusion, at TK Photography, we believe in the power of photography to capture the beauty of every family’s story. Our empathetic, child-centered approach has been recognized and appreciated by families and educational institutions alike.

If you are looking for a photographer who sees and appreciates the unique beauty of your child, or if you are a photographer who believes in a child-centered, empathetic approach, we invite you to contact us. Join us in our journey to capture the real, joyful essence of every family.


How We Make School Picture Day Easy for Schools AND Parents (Yes, Both!)

Let’s be real: school picture day could easily turn into chaos, right? You’ve got kids who refuse to smile, parents wondering if they remembered picture day, and teachers juggling it all. But don’t worry—TK Photography has this down to a science. We’re here to make it easy for everyone, whether you’re running the school or just trying to get your kid to brush their hair that morning.”


What We Do for Schools (Spoiler: It’s A LOT):

When we say we’ve got schools covered, we mean it. Here’s the deal:

We Show Up FREE of Charge

For schools that don’t require images for in-school use, we bring our cameras, equipment, and expertise at no cost. Yes, FREE—schools don’t pay a single penny. Our income comes entirely from photo sales to parents.

Tiered Discounts for Schools That Need More

If your school needs additional services like images for yearbooks, IDs, databases, or composite files, we offer a generous tiered discount based on student photo sales:

  • Discounts range from 10% to 100%!
  • These discounts cover essential services such as:
    • ID and database photos
    • Class composite files for school use
    • Yearbook images (we even send formatted files ready for yearbook companies)
    • A Discount for Faculty and staff headshots schedule outside of Picture Day (relaxing photos during an in-service day?)

We Handle the Logistics

Your school sets the picture day schedule and informs parents—we’ll take it from there. From organizing the photoshoot to sending out galleries and reminders to parents, we ensure everything runs smoothly. Stress-free for you? Absolutely.

Minimum Photo Orders (Sometimes)

In rare cases, we may ask for a minimum number of photo orders to cover our costs. But beyond that, our goal is to support schools, make Picture Day effortless, and provide stunning, quality images.


What We Do for Parents (Because We’ve Got You, Too):
Let’s talk about how we make life easier for parents:

  1. We edit EVERY photo we deliver. That means no odd lighting or distracting details—just your kid’s personality shining through. Whether it’s a sweet smile, a silly grin, or that classic “I’m over this” look, we make sure every photo is polished and ready to be treasured.
  2. We give you options. Forget the old “one photo with a cheesy background” situation. We provide multiple unique images so you can pick the ones you love.
  3. We deliver right to your door. No more worrying about photo packets getting smooshed in backpacks or lost along the way. Zenfolio handles direct-to-home shipping, —no hassle, no drama.

Why We Do It:
Here’s the truth: school photos are more than just pictures. They’re snapshots of milestones, moments, and memories that families will look back on for years. That’s why we go the extra mile—for schools, for parents, and for the kids who might not realize how much these photos will mean later.


At the end of the day, we’re here to make school picture day a win for everyone. Schools don’t have to worry, parents get amazing photos, and kids? Well, they just have to show up with their best smile (or at least try). Thanks for letting us be part of your community—we can’t wait to capture even more memories this year!

Free Fun in Chicago: TK Photography’s Picks from Rent.com’s Guide

Chicago is a city full of life, adventure, and stunning sights—and many of them are completely free! If you’re looking to explore the Windy City without breaking the bank, Rent.com has put together an amazing guide on free things to do in Chicago, and we at TK Photography are thrilled to be part of it!

This guide covers everything from iconic landmarks to hidden gems, making it perfect for families, visitors, and locals alike.

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Highlights from the Rent.com Guide

Here are just a few of the top spots you’ll find in the Rent.com blog post:

  • Millennium Park: Famous for The Bean, this park is also home to beautiful gardens, open spaces, and public art installations—ideal for a family day out.
  • Lincoln Park Zoo: As one of the few free zoos left in the U.S., this is a must-visit spot for families, offering incredible animal exhibits and fun learning opportunities.
  • Chicago Cultural Center: Enjoy free art exhibits, concerts, and one of the most stunning interiors in the city, including the world’s largest Tiffany glass dome.
  • Navy Pier: While many attractions at Navy Pier come with a price, the stunning lake views, outdoor spaces, and free seasonal events make it worth a visit.
  • Northerly Island: This nature lover’s paradise offers trails, open spaces, and stunning views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan. It’s a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle and connect with nature—all for free!
  • Free Museum Days: Chicago’s world-class museums, such as the Art Institute and the Field Museum, offer free admission days—perfect for getting your culture fix.

Northerly Island

Northerly Island is one of our favorite hidden gems in Chicago. This nature lover’s paradise offers beautiful walking trails, open spaces for family fun, and breathtaking views of both the city skyline and Lake Michigan. It’s a peaceful escape right in the heart of the city, and best of all, it’s completely free!

Capture Your Adventures with TK Photography

As you explore these free attractions, don’t forget to capture those priceless family moments. Whether you’re snapping a photo in front of The Bean, enjoying a sunny day at Navy Pier, or soaking in the natural beauty of Northerly Island, TK Photography specializes in helping families capture these experiences in a natural, relaxed way.

Curious to discover our favorite spot in the city or want to learn more about our work? Reach out today and let’s create lasting memories together. And don’t forget to check out the full list of free things to do in Chicago in Rent.com’s guide here!

A Day in the Life Photographing a Kids Festival

A Day in the Life Photographing a Kids Festival

Every summer, my family and I gear up for one of our favorite traditions: running the photobooth at some of the biggest music festivals in the country. We’ve just celebrated our 6th year at Kidzapalooza, the lively kids’ area at Lollapalooza, and are diving into our second year at Austin Kiddie Limits, the family-friendly zone at Austin City Limits. This isn’t just a job for us; it’s a chance to immerse ourselves in the vibrant festival atmosphere, enjoy incredible music, and connect with a community of like-minded, kid-loving business owners.

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The Morning Hustle: Setting the Stage

Our festival days start early, as we jump into setting up the photobooth. There’s a lot to prepare—backdrops, cameras, and ensuring everything is perfectly in place. At Kidzapalooza, we’re surrounded by the buzz of excited children and their parents, all ready for a day of music and fun. Over at Austin Kiddie Limits, the Texas sun greets us, and the anticipation builds as we prepare to capture memories that families will cherish for a lifetime.

But it’s not just about the setup. One of the perks of working these festivals is getting to see some of the best artists perform live. From the soulful tunes of Mumford and Sons to the electrifying performances by Labrinth and Childish Gambino, we’ve had the chance to enjoy world-class music while doing what we love. Watching Chance the Rapper light up the stage or grooving to The Q Brothers and The Pop-Ups with our kids is an experience that blends our professional work with personal joy.

Capturing the Magic: Photobooth Fun

Once everything is in place, the photobooth becomes the heart of the kids’ area. At Kidzapalooza, we’ve seen toddlers dressed as mini rock stars and families in full festival-themed costumes. Each photo captures a moment of pure happiness, a snapshot of the festival’s magic that families can take home with them.

In Austin, the vibe is just as energetic, with its own unique flair. Kids pose in cowboy hats, families embrace the eclectic Austin style, and sometimes even pets join in on the fun. The diversity of the people we meet and the creativity they bring to the photobooth make every day a new adventure.

More Than Just Music: A Community of Kid-Loving Vendors

While the music is a major highlight, what makes these festivals truly special is the sense of community. We’re surrounded by other kid-loving businesses and vendors who share our passion for creating a fun, safe, and engaging environment for families. Working alongside these incredible vendors, whether it’s at Kidzapalooza, Austin Kiddie Limits, or local events like Bubblespalooza with Bubbles Academy, is always a pleasure. It’s a supportive network where everyone is dedicated to making the festival experience unforgettable for the little ones.

We’ve also had the chance to collaborate with local businesses at events like the Chicago Baby Shower and the Hippo Social Club’s dog-friendly 5k in Austin. Each event offers a unique opportunity to connect with families and other businesses that prioritize fun and community.

A Family Affair: Working Together, Playing Together

The best part of this journey is that it’s a family affair. My husband and kids are just as involved in the festival fun as I am. Whether they’re helping set up, testing the equipment, or just enjoying the music, it’s a way for us to bond, share experiences, and create memories that we’ll cherish forever.

As we pack up after a long day, there’s a deep sense of satisfaction. We’ve been a part of something bigger—capturing the essence of these festivals, one photo at a time. And as we head home, tired but fulfilled, we know we’ll be back next year, ready to do it all over again.

From the electrifying performances by artists like The Killers and Childish Gambino to the camaraderie of working with amazing vendors, every festival season leaves us inspired and excited for what’s to come. Here’s to many more years of music, memories, and family fun!

Fall Family Photography 2024

Book Now, Thank Us Later!

Autumn is just around the corner, and there’s no better time to capture those golden moments with a stunning Fall Photography Session! We’re thrilled to continue to offer a variety of photography sessions to suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive Full Session that allows up to an hour of shooting at a location of your choice within 30 miles, or the flexibility of a Weekday Flex Mini session that fits into your busy schedule, we’ve got you covered. Our Mini Session Events are also a fantastic option, providing a quick 20-minute session at various picturesque locations.

Why book now? Get it scheduled before all the back-to-school frenzy. September through November slots are filling up fast, and you don’t want to miss the opportunity to capture those beautiful fall moments before the season slips away. Plus, it’s the perfect time to get those stunning photos ready for your Holiday and New Year’s cards!

Ready to book your session? Contact us via email at booking@tkphotographychicago.com or call us at 847.386.1223. Secure your spot today and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Here is what we have lined up for Fall:
Please remember that even if you can’t attend one of these sessions, sharing, liking, or commenting on social media will help our small business a lot and get the word out to others!
We’re excited to announce that we’re transitioning back to using our website for booking mini sessions! One of the perks of this change is the option to use PayPal’s Pay Later feature, making our mini sessions even more affordable and budget-friendly. Now, you can easily spread out your payments while still capturing those special moments. Book your session today and enjoy the flexibility and convenience PayPal has to offer.

Simple Studio Minis with Thomas: 10/17 & 11/2Simple Minis are ideal for those who prefer timeless photos without seasonal themes. Enjoy a 20-minute studio session with classic Grey and Brick backdrops—perfect for updating portraits, celebrating milestones, or capturing special moments without the holiday fuss.For more details on our Mini Sessions, visit our Chicago Mini Sessions page.

Headshot Snapshots with Cameron: 8/20 & 9/26Update your professional look with Cameron’s Headshot Snapshots. Whether it’s for your LinkedIn profile, your website, or just to have a polished image on hand, Cameron knows how to bring out your best. Grab your headshot slot here.For more details on Headshots, visit our Headshots page.

 
Fall Mini Sessions: September-October 2024Embrace the beauty of autumn with our exclusive Fall Mini Sessions! These 20-minute sessions are perfect for capturing the essence of the season—whether it’s for updating your family album, creating images for your Holiday cards, or simply indulging in the splendor of fall. For more details on our Fall Mini Sessions, visit our Chicago Mini Sessions page.

Quirky Tips for a Fun and Memorable
Family Photo Session
Getting ready for a family photo session can be fun and memorable with these quirky tips:

Blast Some Tunes: Get everyone in the mood by playing your favorite music while getting ready. A mini dance party can ease nerves and create a fun atmosphere.
Bring Special Items: Let the kids bring along their favorite toy, book, or even a costume. These special items can add a personal touch to the photos and keep them happy.
Have a Silly Face Contest: Start the session with a silly face contest. It’s a great way to loosen up, get some laughs, and capture those genuine smiles.
Wear Fun Accessories: Throw in some fun hats, scarves, or funky shoes. These accessories can add personality and make the session feel less formal.
Create a Secret Handshake: Teach the kids a secret handshake or funny pose. Use it during the session for some unique and playful shots.
Tell Jokes: Prepare a few family-friendly jokes or riddles to share during the session. Laughter is the best way to capture genuine smiles.
Capture the Chaos: Embrace the chaos and let the kids be themselves. Sometimes the best photos are the unplanned, candid moments.
Pretend to be Models: Have everyone strike their best “model” pose. It’s a fun way to break the ice and can lead to some hilarious and memorable photos.

Capture the essence of your family’s unique personality with these quirky tips for a memorable and enjoyable photo session

.CONTACT US TO BOOK A FAMILY SESSION

ALL OUR USUAL OFFERINGS!!!!!
In-Studio, In-Home, or Outside 
Book Your Own Customized Session
There is still plenty of time to get a full session booked!
Up to 1 hourLocation chosen by you (fees and restrictions may apply)
Easy rescheduling policy
Associate photographer booking fees $375
Principle photographer booking fees $450
CONTACT US TO BOOK YOUR SESSION

WEEKDAY FLEX MINI SESSIONS Available Weekdays
We are continuing to offer Weekday Flex Minis!  We will offer them in-studio OR outside at Winnemac Park. (Both Subject to Photographer and Studio availability)

$300 | 20 min | Booked Mondays-Fridays

TO BOOK:
email: booking@tkphotographychicago.com
Interested in Other Mini Sessions and Events?
 
Birthday Party Event Photography
Have a photographer at your party and leave your camera at home.
https://www.tkphotographychicago.com/birthdays-and-family-events/
See all of our mini sessions!
As we start adding mini sessions back in, keep up as dates are announced.  
https://www.tkphotographychicago.com/chicago-mini-sessions/

Why Simplicity is Key: How We Deliver Great Photos Without the Fuss

 

 

 

Why Simplicity is Key: How We Deliver Great Photos Without the Fuss

Photographed by Thomas | © 2023

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Simple Minis

No Fuss, Just Quality

When you book a session with us, you won’t find any over-the-top gimmicks or complicated processes. Instead, we focus on the essentials—making sure you feel comfortable, confident, and well taken care of. From the moment you reach out to us, we keep everything clear and easy to understand. Whether it’s scheduling your session, discussing your needs, or guiding you through the shoot, our goal is to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Why Simplicity Works

Simplicity in photography doesn’t mean sacrificing quality; in fact, it’s quite the opposite. By focusing on what truly matters—your comfort, the right lighting, and capturing genuine expressions—we’re able to create images that are both authentic and timeless. Without the distractions of unnecessary props or complicated setups, the true essence of the moment shines through.

Our approach allows us to pay attention to the little details that make a big difference: the natural smiles, the candid moments, and the unique personalities that come through in every shot. By keeping things simple, we ensure that your photos reflect who you really are, without any unnecessary frills.

Fall Mini 2022

An Experience 

At TK Photography, we understand that every client is unique, and we want each session to fit your individual needs. Whether we’re working with a family, capturing a corporate headshot, or photographing a special event, we take the time to connect with you, understand your vision, and create an experience that feels comfortable and true to who you are.

Our photographers are friendly, approachable, and skilled at putting even the most camera-shy clients at ease. We know that the best photos come when you’re relaxed and enjoying the moment, so we focus on creating an environment where you can just be yourself.

Bubbles Academy Valentine’s Day Party 2024

The Result? Photos You’ll Love

The end result of our simple, straightforward approach is clean, high-quality photos that you’ll cherish for years to come. We believe that great photography doesn’t need to be complicated. It just needs to be real.

So, if you’re looking for a photography experience that’s free of fuss but full of genuine moments, we’re here to make it happen. At TK Photography, we’re all about capturing the true you—simply, beautifully, and without any unnecessary frills.