Category: Chicago Children’s Photography

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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.

Table of Contents

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!

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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 SessionGetting 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/
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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

Table of Contents

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.

 

 

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Glenview’s Best: Kohl Children’s Museum Family Touch A Truck 2024

TK Photography Chicago: Capturing the Joy at Kohl Children’s Museum’s Touch a Truck Family Festival

Hey there, parents! It’s TK Photography Chicago, your go-to Chicago event photography and Chicago family photography experts. We’re thrilled to announce that we’ll be back photographing the Kohl Children’s Museum’s Touch a Truck Family Festival. As a leading Glenview family photographer, this event is one of our absolute favorites to capture, and we can’t wait to see the excitement and joy on the faces of your little ones.

Vibrant Scene at the Kohl Children's Museum Touch a Truck Event

As many of you know, Kohl Children’s Museum is not only a fantastic place for events like Touch a Truck, but they’re also one of our regular Chicago marketing photography clients. In fact, we had the privilege of photographing all the photos on their community outreach van seen in the image above. It was essential for us to feature kids from the community and have them interact with actual items from the museum. So, we reached out to our client families and held a casting call for those who love the museum. The results were incredible!

Families Engaging with Trucks at Kohl Children's Museum's Touch a Truck Event

Now, let’s talk about the upcoming Touch a Truck Family Festival. This year’s event will be held on Sunday, May 5, 2024, from 10:30 AM to 2 PM, with VIP access starting at 9:30 AM. The festival will take place at the Northeastern Illinois Public Safety Training Academy (NIPSTA) located at 2300 Patriot Blvd, Glenview, IL 60026.

Children Exploring a Fire Truck at Kohl Children's Museum's Touch a Truck Event

At Touch a Truck, children will have the opportunity to learn about trucks, cars, and other vehicles through hands-on experiences. They can look, climb, and play on over 40 different vehicles. Plus, there will be music, train rides, food trucks, and more at this incredible outdoor family festival.

Kids Enjoying a Thomas the Tank Engine Train Car at Kohl Children's Museum's Touch a Truck Event

Ticket prices vary depending on whether you’re a museum member and if you want VIP or general admission. VIP tickets are $50 for members and $60 for non-members. General admission tickets are $25 for members and $35 for non-members. Tickets are required for each adult and child over 12 months of age, and they include access to all activities, including concerts, face painting, and kiddie train rides. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase.

Family Enjoying Food Trucks at Kohl Children's Museum's Touch a Truck Event

It’s important to note that tickets are non-refundable after purchase, and the event will occur rain or shine. You can purchase VIP tickets here and timed entry general admission tickets: 10:30am Entry, 11:00am Entry and, 11:30am Entry. General admission tickets include timed entry windows, so please select your preferred entry time.

Children Running Towards Trucks at Kohl Children's Museum's Touch a Truck Event

We’re also excited to share that there will be a Horn-Free Hour from 1-2 PM. During this time, trucks will not turn on sirens, flashing lights, or beep horns, creating a sensory-friendly environment for children who are sensitive to loud noises and lights.

One of the things we love most about photographing this event is running into so many of the families we’ve had the pleasure of working with for Chicago family photography sessions. It’s always a joy to see familiar faces and watch as the children grow and explore year after year.

By participating in the Touch a Truck Family Festival, you’re not only giving your child an unforgettable experience, but you’re also supporting Kohl Children’s Museum’s mission to provide learning opportunities for kids. We can’t wait to see you there and capture all the magical moments!

If you are looking for event photography you can learn more about our work here.

Families Gathering Around Trucks at Kohl Children's Museum's Touch a Truck Event

Check out some more photos from previous Touch a Truck events:

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Discover the Magic of Bubbles Academy’s Enchanting Bubble Egg Hunt!

This image shows a young child, who appears to be a toddler, crawling on the floor. The child is wearing a long-sleeved blue top and dark pants, with light-colored socks. They are reaching out towards what seems to be a toy egg or ball. In the background, there's a colorful play environment featuring toys, bricks, and a grassy area. The setting looks like it could be a children's indoor play area.\n\nThe image is in portrait orientation and captures a candid moment with soft focus on the child, while the background is slightly blurred but still recognizable as a play area. There are no visible texts on the image.

Egg-citing Fun at Bubbles Academy’s – Bubble Egg Hunt!

At TK Photography Chicago, we always look forward to capturing the joyful moments at Bubbles Academy’s events, and their Bubble Egg Hunt celebrating all things spring was no exception! As one of our longest-running partners, Bubbles Academy consistently puts on fantastic events that bring smiles to children’s faces, and this year’s egg hunt was a perfect example of their dedication to creating memorable experiences for families.

Our talented photographer, Cameron, had a wonderful time photographing the excitement and laughter at the event. The Bubbles Academy team transformed their space into a colorful, festive wonderland filled with hidden eggs, cheerful decorations, and plenty of fun activities for the little ones.

The image depicts a lively indoor scene, likely at an event or gathering. In the foreground, there is a colorful play area with several children engaging in play activities. On the right side of the play area, adults and children are standing and interacting. There is a variety of play elements such as soft seating, a slide, and building blocks.

The children were thrilled as they searched high and low for the colorful eggs, their baskets filling up with their prized findings. It was heartwarming to see the determination and excitement on their faces as they navigated the egg hunt, encouraged by their parents and the supportive Bubbles Academy staff.

This image shows a young child, who appears to be a toddler, crawling on the floor. The child is wearing a long-sleeved blue top and dark pants, with light-colored socks. They are reaching out towards what seems to be a toy egg or ball.

In addition to the egg hunt, the event featured engaging activities that kept the children entertained and smiling from ear to ear. From arts and crafts, and live music performances to fun games, there was no shortage of laughter and joy throughout the day.

This is a color photograph featuring two young children, presumably girls, engaged in an activity. The child on the left appears to be wearing a pair of glasses or goggles that have a paper bunny glued to them, suggesting a craft project. She also has a red and white polka dot patterned bib around her neck. Her sibling on the right is holding a small toy with one hand while the other seems to be touching or adjusting something not clearly visible. Both children are focused on their activities.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the incredible team at Bubbles Academy for organizing yet another unforgettable event. Your dedication to creating magical experiences for children and families is truly inspiring, and we are honored to be your long-term photography partner.

The image shows a group of six individuals standing in front of a colorful display that includes a child's play area and a banner with various themed elements. They are positioned against a vibrant, pastel-colored wall. All six people appear to be posing for the photo; two women are in the foreground on the left side of the frame, smiling towards the camera. The remaining four individuals are slightly behind and to their right, also smiling at the camera.

To all the families who attended the Bubble Egg Hunt, thank you for allowing us to capture these precious moments for you. We hope that the photos we’ve taken will serve as a beautiful reminder of the joy and wonder your children experienced at this special event.

If you’re looking for a talented family event photographer in the Chicago area, we’d love to work with you! Contact TK Photography Chicago today to discuss capturing your own family’s special moments.

Once again, a huge thank you to Bubbles Academy for your partnership and for creating such a memorable celebration of all things spring for the children and families in our community. See you at the next event!

Event Details:

Bubbles Academy

Address:
Bubbles Academy Arts-Integrated Preschool
2184 N Elston Ave
Chicago, IL 60614

Website: https://bubblesacademy.com/

Event Name: Bubbles Egg Hunt!

Event Date: March 23, 2024

Photographer: Cameron

Photography Type: Event Photography

Gallery

Contact Us to Book Your Event

Ready to capture your own special moments? Use the contact form below to get in touch with us and book your event photography today!

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Unveiling the Magic: Designing Unforgettable Smash Cakes

Elevating the Smash Cake Experience: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Our Design Process

Smash Cake Session

At TK Photography Chicago, we’re constantly seeking ways to enhance our clients’ experiences and provide them with the most memorable smash cake sessions possible. We’ve recently created an in-depth guide that delves into the heart of our design process, giving parents a behind-the-scenes look at how we craft these unforgettable moments.

Our new “How We Design Our Smash Cake Mini Sessions” page is a testament to the thought and care we put into every aspect of these sessions. From the initial consultation to the final photograph, we walk you through the steps we take to ensure that your child’s smash cake experience is nothing short of extraordinary.

We believe that every child is unique, and their smash cake session should reflect their individual personality. That’s why we work closely with parents to understand their vision and preferences, tailoring every detail to create a personalized celebration that showcases their little one’s charm.

Our guide explores the art of crafting the perfect backdrop, coordinating decorations for a cohesive look, and collaborating with the acclaimed West Town Bakery to design a smash cake that is both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious. We also discuss how we simplify the outfit selection process by aligning our backdrops to match your chosen outfit, ensuring that every photograph is a perfect blend of style and joy.

Beyond the aesthetics, our new page emphasizes the emotional significance of these sessions. We understand that a child’s first birthday is a precious milestone, and we strive to capture the laughter, delight, and adorable messiness that comes with this special day, creating cherished keepsakes that families will treasure for years to come.

We invite you to explore our “How We Design Our Smash Cake Mini Sessions” page to gain a deeper understanding of the passion and dedication we bring to every smash cake session. This comprehensive guide serves as a powerful companion to our main smash cake page, providing parents with the knowledge and inspiration they need to embark on this unforgettable journey with confidence.

Book your child’s smash cake session today and allow us to create a joyful, stress-free experience that preserves this precious chapter in your family’s story.

To learn more about our smash cake sessions and how we design them, visit: https://www.tkphotographychicago.com/smash-cake-minis/how-we-design-our-smash-cake-mini-sessions/

For more information on our smash cake mini sessions, visit our main page: https://www.tkphotographychicago.com/smash-cake-minis/

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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.