Category: Family Business

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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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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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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.

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Growing Up Business-Savvy: Our Family’s Journey of Entrepreneurship and Life

The image is a cheerful family selfie featuring two adults and two children. They are all smiling broadly at the camera. The man, on the left, is bald with a beard and glasses, wearing a black t-shirt with 'PHOTOGRAPHER' repeated in white text. One child is in front of him, partially cropped, with curly hair and a similar themed t-shirt. The woman on the right has curly hair, glasses, and a red headband, wearing the same black 'PHOTOGRAPHER' t-shirt, and is embracing the other child who shares her bright smile. Both children are wearing bandanas with camera icons. The background has a vibrant and colorful mural with the word "LOVE" in large lettering, adding a lively and artistic touch to the photo.
Thomas, Tiana, Griffin and Adair at their first Austin City Limits Festival in Austin Texas

Our home in Chicago is more than just a living space; it’s a hub of creativity, love, and entrepreneurship – the heart of TK Photography. My husband, Thomas, and I have woven a life where our professional dreams and family existence aren’t just coexisting; they’re interdependent. Our children, Griffin and Adair, have been part of this journey from their earliest moments. The studio isn’t just a place of work; for them, it’s where playtime and ‘helping mommy and daddy’ merge into their form of normal.

This life we’ve built is an ongoing story about the seamless fusion of family values, business lessons, and the everyday experiences that shape us. It’s a tale that began with Griffin already a part of our plans, even before his birth, as I stepped into my role at TK Photography full-time. Adair’s entrance into our world came when our business had found its footing, her baby years spent amidst the laughter and clatter that filled our studio.

Our Children’s Early Involvement

The image captures a playful and endearing moment outdoors, where a man is crouched down taking a photograph of a child who is also pretending to take a photo with a blue toy camera. The man is dressed casually in a grey t-shirt and shorts, wearing a grey cap, and has a camera strap over his shoulder. The child, wearing a blue sleeveless top and dark shorts, is aiming the toy camera with serious concentration. The setting appears to be a public outdoor area with trees and pedestrians in the background, suggesting a park or a city walkway. The scene is filled with sunlight, indicating a bright, sunny day.
Thomas and Griffin taking photos of each other in Downtown Chicago
The image depicts a small child lying next to an open laptop on a black lap desk. The child, who seems to be asleep, is dressed in a red shirt with the word "milk" printed on it three times, and black pants with white polka dots. A wireless mouse is on the lap desk near the child's hand. The laptop and mouse are on a textured fabric with a striped pattern, likely a bed or couch, giving the scene a casual and homey atmosphere. The image captures a moment of modern daily life, perhaps illustrating the balance between parenting and working from home.
Day in the Life: Baby Adair taking a snooze in Tiana’s lap while Tiana works.

Our business journey started with Griffin, who was with me in spirit as I embraced my full-time role while pregnant. Adair, arriving four months later, joined a scene rich with established business routines, her early years intermingled with the day-to-day life of our photography studio. They’ve grown up here, learning to walk among tripods and lights, their childhoods framed by the click of the shutter and the backdrop of our shared dreams.

I remember when Griffin, just four years old, worked alongside Thomas on the new studio floor. It was a father-son project that laid down more than tiles; it laid down future expectations, dreams, and a tangible sense of belonging. More recently, they’ve begun contemplating their future roles in our business – Griffin eager to share responsibilities, and Adair, the artist of our family, keen on contributing creatively while also pursuing her passions.

Lessons Learned Together

a young child and a woman sitting together, possibly in a cafe or an indoor space with a casual setting. The child, who appears to be a toddler with curly hair, is looking at the camera with a neutral expression, wearing a light grey top. The woman, wearing glasses and a patterned top, is taking a selfie with the child. She's holding a dark-colored drink with a green straw, likely from Teavana based on the cup's branding, and is playfully sticking out her tongue at the camera. The background has a rustic brick wall and a large white umbrella, possibly a lighting umbrella, suggesting the space may be used for photography or events.
A great business partner: Adair helping Tiana stay caffinated while she works!

Through our family business, Griffin and Adair have learned about resilience and creativity in the face of challenges, like navigating the rough waters of a pandemic. They’ve witnessed what it takes to breathe life into an idea – the planning, the interactions with vendors, and the reality of limitations. These aren’t just business lessons; they’re life lessons that are shaping their young minds to understand the value of hard work and the beauty of seeing a project come to fruition.

This exposure has given them an appreciation for money and the labor behind each dollar earned. They’ve started to dream up their own ventures, understanding that our collaborative family efforts can make almost anything possible. It’s fascinating to see their entrepreneurial spirit take flight, inspired by the world they’ve grown up in.

The Dance of Work and Family

The image shows a man from behind as he stands under a canopy with a white ceiling and a bold yellow wall. He is wearing a brown t-shirt, khaki pants, and a dark cap, and is carrying a sleeping child in a grey baby sling. The child is dressed in black and appears to be resting comfortably against the man’s back. The man is reaching up towards the canopy, possibly adjusting or holding onto the structure. In the background, a festival or public event is hinted at with tents and people visible in the distance, suggesting a day out with the family.
Thomas setting up for a Festival with Adair in a carrier
a young child with curly hair, crawling on a hardwood floor in a brightly lit room. The child is wearing a red T-shirt and dark pants. With an intense and focused expression, the child is reaching out with one hand, possibly playing or exploring. The room has a soft, warm ambiance with sunlight filtering through, creating a cozy and serene setting. There's a partial view of furniture suggesting a domestic interior, such as a home or a daycare.
Day in the Life: Griff helping with some studio set up

Incorporating our children into the business is like a dance, sometimes graceful, other times a bit chaotic. On good days, we find harmony in our work and family life, managing to juggle client calls with field trips. Yet, there are times when this balance is elusive, and we find ourselves prioritizing one over the other. But it’s within this imperfect dance that we find our family’s rhythm, a unique melody that defines our existence.

The rewards of this lifestyle are as rich as they are varied. Our children have been privy to experiences that most only dream of – exclusive events, unique insights into the city’s cultural happenings, and forming bonds with other families who share our lifestyle. These aren’t just perks; they’re the threads that weave the rich tapestry of our lives.

Our Unconventional Rhythm

The notion of ‘balance’ is quite misleading when it comes to our family life. It’s more about a mosaic of work, play, and shared experiences. Communication is the cornerstone of our life, ensuring that every decision, every sacrifice, is made with collective agreement and understanding. We live by a rhythm rather than a routine, a principle that respects the fluid nature of our days.

Our methods might seem unconventional, but they work for us. We share our schedules, our plans, and our dreams through family meetings and shared calendars. As Griffin and Adair grow older, they’ve become active participants in planning our family’s time, learning the importance of commitment and the joy of spontaneity.

Their Future, Their Choice

The image is a collage of various photographs that depict moments of family life and leisure. The pictures show a range of activities such as a child taking a photo with a toy camera, a family at the beach, a group photo with several smiling individuals, a child leaning over a yellow railing, a man crouched taking a photo, and a woman with headphones. There's also a shot of someone filming or photographing a subject, and a close-up of a smiling child with an adult. The images together convey a sense of family bonding, creativity, and everyday joy. The collage has a scrapbook-like feel, with pictures appearing to be taped onto a surface, suggesting these are cherished memories being collectively displayed.
Just a little snippet of our life

As parents, Thomas and I hope to see Griffin and Adair take on more significant roles within TK Photography as they grow, but we hold their freedom of choice sacred. Their aspirations are theirs to shape, and we stand by to support whatever paths they choose to explore. Whether they step into leadership roles within our business or venture into new territories, the lessons they’ve learned here will guide them.

Our life is a living lesson that when a family works together, anything is possible. Griffin and Adair have grown up believing that every dream has a path to realization, a belief we’ve nurtured through exposure to every facet of our business.