As a newborn photographer, there's nothing quite as fulfilling as being part of a family's journey through significant milestones. Recently, I had the pleasure of working with Sabryna and Ray, documenting their beautiful journey from pregnancy to parenthood. From capturing the radiant glow of Sabryna's maternity to welcoming their precious bundle of joy, Emersyn, every moment was a treasure to behold.
Before diving into the photography session, Sabryna and Ray and I had extensive conversations to ensure we captured their vision perfectly. We discussed their expectations, wishes, and style preferences, laying the foundation for a session that truly reflected their unique story. Sabryna expressed her desire to incorporate elements of violet, representing her middle name, into the session. With their nursery themed around Princesses and a shared love for all things Disney, we knew we had the perfect ingredients for a magical photoshoot.
Throughout the session, we incorporated personal items that held special significance to Sabryna and Ray. From adorable Disney-themed props to delicate violet accents, every detail was carefully chosen to infuse the session with love, meaning, and a touch of whimsy. It was heartwarming to witness the joy and anticipation radiating from the soon-to-be parents as they cradled their precious bump, eagerly awaiting the arrival of their little one.
Finally, the moment had arrived – baby Emersyn was here! Welcoming this tiny bundle of joy into the my studio was an absolute honor, and capturing those first precious moments was a privilege I'll cherish forever. From Emersyn's tiny fingers to her adorable little toes, every photograph was a testament to the overwhelming love that filled the room.
As I look back on Sabryna and Ray's maternity and newborn session, I'm filled with gratitude for being entrusted with the task of preserving these precious memories. It's moments like these that remind me why I fell in love with photography in the first place – the ability to freeze time, capturing fleeting moments of love, joy, and connection for generations to come.
To revisit the magic of Sabryna and Ray's maternity session, be sure to check out their maternity post.
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL newborn photographer, published nationally and internationally.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago, in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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Stepping into the world of Sabryna and Ray was like stepping into a whirlwind of joy and laughter. From the moment we met, it was evident that their maternity session was going to be something truly special.
There was never a dull moment. Ray, being the doting dad-to-be, jumped in with enthusiasm, adding an extra layer of fun to the shoot. Did you know dads can be such pros at creating flying gowns for those epic shots?
But beyond the laughter and the fun, there was something truly magical about witnessing the bond between Sabryna and Ray. Their love for each other and their growing family radiated through every frame, making my job an absolute pleasure.
A shoutout to all the moms out there who put their trust in my professional opinion. When it came to choosing the perfect gown for Sabryna, it wasn't initially her first choice. But oh my goodness, when she slipped into that yellow gown, she transformed into an absolute vision of beauty. It just goes to show that sometimes, stepping out of our comfort zones can lead to the most breathtaking results.
Throughout our time together, we exchanged stories, shared laughter, and created memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. It was truly a privilege to be a part of such a special moment in their lives.
As we bid farewell to 2023, I couldn't think of a better way to end the year than by capturing the love and happiness of Sabryna, Ray, and their growing family. Here's to many more joyful moments in the years to come.
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL maternity photographer, published nationally and internationally.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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I recently had the pleasure of diving into an impromptu maternity session, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of amazing! When Dad casually mentioned that Mom was already 37 weeks pregnant, I couldn't help but think, "Whoa, this is going to be hard on Mom." But you know what? She killed it! Her tiny bump was beyond adorable, and can we take a moment to appreciate just how gorgeous she looked?
As always, I offer a large variety of gowns, and guess what Mom brought with her? A Sari! It was my first time shooting maternity with one, and the results were nothing short of stunning. I love experimenting with different styles and having a blast during post-processing with textures, colors, and designs.
What struck me the most was Mom's innate talent in front of the camera. It was evident that she had some professional modeling experience under her belt. She effortlessly adjusted her angles, fine-tuned her hand positions, and nailed every facial expression. The session turned into a delightful challenge as I tried to keep up with capturing the plethora of fun variations Mom threw my way.
Now, let's talk about timing. While this spontaneous adventure was a blast, I'd be remiss not to mention that being 37 weeks along in a pregnancy isn't something I typically advise for expecting Moms. The further along you are, the more strain it puts on your body, affecting your overall comfort. For me, photography is about creating timeless memories, and when we look at photos, we're transported back to the moments they were taken. In my professional opinion, the process is just as crucial as the result.
So, here's to embracing the unexpected, capturing stunning moments, and ensuring both the journey and the destination are equally memorable!
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL maternity photographer, published nationally and internationally.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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I have deliberated extensively on how best to convey my thoughts and feelings regarding the ongoing events in Israel. It is my sincere hope that this message resonates not only within the Jewish and Israeli communities but also with a broader audience that cares deeply about the world we all live in.
The current situation in Israel is profoundly terrifying and entirely unacceptable. In 2023, it is unfathomable that innocent individuals, especially babies/children, should be subjected to the turmoil and suffering that they are experiencing. As a mother, I can only begin to grasp the paralyzing fear that must grip the hearts of parents in such dire circumstances.
Let us remember that behind the headlines and statistics are real people—families, loved ones, and individuals with dreams and aspirations. I had the privilege of meeting Shira, Israeli-born, along with her remarkable mom, brother, and her future sister-in-law. Their recent visit to Chicago, a long-awaited respite from the challenges posed by the pandemic, has now been overshadowed by current events. Mattan, her brother, was drafted into the IDF reserves, disrupting plans for his impending wedding this very month.
I beg you to understand that none of this is acceptable or justifiable. I have family and friends in Israel myself. Keep your thoughts and prayers with and for Israel, the Jewish community, and humanity. Let us stand together in solidarity and empathy, transcending boundaries and affiliations to advocate for a world where such suffering and uncertainty are no longer tolerated.
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Meet baby Leo – the newest star in town! This session was extra special as Mom and Dad were referred to me, and let me tell you, that's the biggest compliment a photographer can receive. It's like a warm hug for the heart!
Baby Leo decided to surprise everyone by arriving a bit earlier than expected, coming to at 5 weeks old. And let me spill the beans – he was absolute perfection.
Now, let's talk about Leo's nursery – a safari-themed wonderland! I wanted to help his room decor and let me tell you, it was the cutest decision ever. We played around with adorable animal hats, but my absolute favorite. The lion hat! Oh my goodness, Leo in that lion hat while letting out a tiny yawn – cuteness overload alert!
But wait, there's more! Mom and Dad had some special requests too. They asked for a couple of specific props, like a moon and that oh-so-adorable lion hat. Oh, and the cherry on top? They brought along a super special blanket and a Stitch stuffed animal that we incorporated into the session. These are what make each session so unique and special to each family.
As I captured each precious shot, I couldn't help but feel the love that enveloped this sweet family. The way Leo's parents looked at him was pure magic – a mix of awe, wonder, and a love that words can't quite capture.
These moments are what photography is all about – freezing time and preserving the love, joy, and personality of a family in its most beautiful phase. It was an absolute pleasure to be part of baby Leo's journey into this world!
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL newborn photographer, published nationally and internationally.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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Every session is unique and special, but there's something truly magical about capturing the beauty of expecting parents in a studio setting. What a memorable maternity session that highlights the joy and love between an expectant couple. Despite rescheduling due to poor air quality and allergies acting up, studio sessions can be just as fun and stunning as outdoor photos, with the added benefit of playing with light, and silhouettes, and even exploring boudoir photography.
While outdoor sessions have their charm, a studio offers a controlled environment where I can create a variety of artistic shots. We played with different lighting techniques to emphasize the couple's natural beauty. The interplay of shadows and soft light added an artistic touch to the images, creating captivating silhouettes that beautifully framed the expecting mom's baby bump.
Beyond the technical aspects of photography, the magic truly lies in the emotions captured. This expecting couple, radiating happiness and love for each other, made my job even more delightful. It's always a joy to learn about how couples meet and fell in love. Hearing their love story adds depth and meaning to the images I create, making the experience more personal and intimate.
A key aspect of maternity photography is capturing the anticipation and excitement of soon-to-be parents. During the session, we had the opportunity to chat with the expectant mom and dad about their hopes, dreams, and expectations for parenthood. Their enthusiasm was infectious, and it shone through in every shot. These moments serve as a beautiful reminder of the emotions and anticipation they felt during this stage of their journey.
I love witnessing new moms' grace and ease in front of the camera. Like many moms-to-be, she initially felt unsure about posing, but as the session progressed, she embraced her natural beauty and exuded confidence. This is common for many expecting mothers, and I always strive to make them feel comfortable and empowered during the shoot, Dads too!
As fall family sessions season approaches, I want to emphasize the significance of booking your maternity and newborn sessions early. I strive to accommodate all clients but fall newborn due dates are quickly filling up my calendar already. By scheduling your maternity and newborn sessions in advance, you ensure that you secure a spot for your newborn in advance as well.
Cannot wait to snuggle their bundle of joy soon enough and see Mom and Dad shining in a new role together as a family of three!
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL maternity photographer, published nationally and internationally.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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Hello, wonderful families!
As the leaves will soon begin to paint the world with stunning autumn colors, we couldn't be more excited to announce that our Fall Family Session calendar is now officially open for bookings! Don't wait too long, as the dates tend to go fast due to the high demand for capturing those perfect fall moments.
As always, we offer Monday - Friday hours to cater to the many wanting to schedule, and we have something special in store to accommodate even more families. Each date will have two opportunities for sessions as we're introducing sunset sessions with back-to-back time slots. Ie: A 4 pm time slot and a 5 pm time slot just as reference. This means double the chance to secure your ideal day for a memorable family photoshoot!
To book your session, please send us an email with your preferred month/date and whether you'd prefer an earlier or later time slot. Remember, to fully reserve your spot, a signed contract, and paid retainer are required.
For variety and to make the most of the beautiful fall scenery, we'll have two to four locations on rotation based on weather, foliage, and scenery. Rest assured, we'll choose the best spots to make your photos truly stand out.
A few things to keep in mind: Fall sessions start and end earlier than summer sessions, especially as we approach daylight savings time. Additionally, we understand that Mother Nature has her own schedule for when the leaves change, so once your date is chosen, there won't be any adjustments unless due to rain.
Don't miss out on the chance to capture cherished memories against the backdrop of this breathtaking season! Email us your date and time preference slot. Contracts will be sent out promptly, and once the contract and payment are received, your chosen day and time will be locked in. To book your session, use this form.
We can't wait to create magical moments with your family, let's make this fall truly unforgettable.
Warmest wishes,
Alina Renert
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I recently had the pleasure of capturing a beautiful maternity session for a mom who was referred to me through a Facebook group. When we first chatted, she expressed her desire for a studio session, which is not the typical request during the summer months. However, I was thrilled to accommodate her because I absolutely love studio sessions!
The day of the session arrived, and the mom-to-be showed up with excitement in her eyes, ready to capture this wonderful chapter in their lives. As is often the case, I anticipated some reluctance from soon-to-be dads or dads in general when it comes to taking photos. Many times, they agree to it just to please the moms. However, I was determined to find a way to entice the dad to enjoy himself during the session.
With some creative thinking, I managed to make the experience fun for the dad, resulting in incredible images that were intimate and special to mom and dad alone. It's always a joy for me to see dads fully engaged and enjoying themselves during these sessions. It adds a beautiful dynamic to the photos and captures the genuine connection and excitement between the couple.
Throughout the session, I emphasized to the parents-to-be, as well as all my clients, the importance of genuinely enjoying the process and the experience. I firmly believe that the joy and enthusiasm during a photoshoot contribute greatly to the final outcome. It's not just about the poses and smiles; it's about capturing the emotion and creating lasting moments.
The importance of booking maternity and newborn sessions in a timely manner is crucial for moms' comfort and not missing out on the opportunity. Maternity sessions are best done between 26-33 weeks along when the baby bump is beautifully round and glowing. And when it comes to newborn sessions, capturing those precious early moments within the first three weeks after delivery ensures the freshness and innocence of the newborn stage.
So, if you're expecting or know someone who is, I highly encourage you not to wait to book your maternity and newborn sessions. Embrace the experience, celebrate this incredible journey into parenthood, and allow me to capture the love, joy, and anticipation that surrounds this special time in your lives. The resulting photographs will be treasured memories that you can cherish for a lifetime.
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL maternity photographer, published nationally and internationally.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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In the midst of uncertain weather conditions and the smoky air caused by the raging Canadian wildfires, we had an incredible outdoor maternity session, capturing the beauty and radiance of a mother eagerly awaiting the arrival of her little one. The lack of golden hour may not have been what they initially planned, but the love and joy that filled the atmosphere made it a truly memorable experience.
I have a few favorite spots in mind to showcase at this location however, nature had another surprise in store, as an overabundance of geese and their adorable hatchlings had taken over those spots. Despite the change of plans, the session went on, with the geese adding a unique touch of wildlife charm to the portraits. Even though both mom and I were scared they'd attack us!
Amidst the smoky haze, the love and anticipation between the couples shone through every captured moment. The moms-to-be exuded a glowing aura as they embraced their growing baby bumps, their excitement palpable. The raw emotions and the stunning beauty of a mother and father to be, freezing those cherished moments in time.
As the session unfolded, the soon-to-be parents shared their hopes and dreams for their little one. Their eyes sparkled with the anticipation of meeting their sweet bundles of joy, and every click of the camera served as a reminder that the countdown to parenthood was drawing nearer. It was a celebration of new life and the profound connection between parents and their unborn child.
Booking maternity and newborn sessions in advance together has its advantages. While the availability of preferred locations and favorable weather conditions may be uncertain, securing a session early ensures that these precious moments are captured professionally and beautifully if the need to schedule arrives. By avoiding the gamble of availability after a baby is born, expecting parents can enjoy peace of mind and have a keepsake of this special time that they can cherish for years to come. It's an investment in capturing the love, anticipation, and joy that surrounds the journey into parenthood. Inquire about the financial benefit of booking both sessions together.
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL maternity photographer, published nationally and internationally.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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What a joy it was to have this beautiful family back in the studio for a newborn session with their adorable second son, Mason! I still remember photographing their firstborn, Max, back in 2020, right before the world changed. It's incredible to see how their family has grown and how Max has embraced his role as a loving big brother.
During the session, we incorporated special props, including a firetruck and airplane, per Mom's request. It was amazing to see how those props brought out the boys' personalities and created heartwarming moments. Max was simply adorable as he interacted with his baby brother, showering him with love and kisses.
Mason, being a little sweetheart, had his own ideas about the session. He wasn't too keen on being undressed or fully posed, and that was perfectly fine! We followed his lead and focused on capturing his natural charm and genuine expressions. Sometimes, the most beautiful and authentic moments come from embracing a baby's individual preferences and personality.
The session turned out to be a delightful blend of candid interactions, sibling bonds, and the pure love that fills a growing family. It's sessions like these that remind me of the incredible privilege it is to document these precious moments in a family's journey.
Thank you to this amazing family for choosing me once again to be a part of their story. It's the biggest compliment an artist can receive.
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL newborn photographer, published nationally and internationally.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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In the world of maternity photography, every session is an opportunity to celebrate the strength, beauty, and unique journey of an expectant mother. I had the honor of photographing a truly inspiring mom-to-be. This extraordinary woman, a former military mom and aspiring law enforcement officer radiated resilience and grace. What was anticipated to be a scorching hot day turned into a cool 50-degree day with no sun in sight. However, challenges are often the catalysts for creativity. Despite unexpected weather conditions, we had a memorable session that showcased her inner and outer strength.
Throughout the session, the mom-to-be exuded an aura of strength and beauty that was truly awe-inspiring. My goal was to capture not just her physical beauty but also the inner strength that made her journey so remarkable.
Mom-to-be brought along her supportive and hilarious friend. This turned out to be a game-changer. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and joy. Her witty comments and infectious sense of humor created a lighthearted environment, easing any nerves the mom-to-be may have had. The presence of this amazing friend not only helped the mom-to-be to laugh and relax but also added an extra layer of connection and warmth to the photographs, capturing a truly memorable and authentic experience.
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL maternity photographer, published nationally and internationally.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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I had the pleasure of capturing a milestone session for an adorable soon-to-be 5-year-old, Julia. What made this session particularly special was that Julia's mother has been a client since her pregnancy days. Every year, I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to see how much Julia has grown and capture her unique personality and milestones. It's a joyous journey to witness her transformation from a tiny baby into a beautiful and vibrant young girl.
Julia arrived at the session with her hair stylishly done and an array of stunning outfits that perfectly showcased her vibrant personality. As a photographer, I always strive to create a fun and enjoyable atmosphere, encouraging children to be themselves and allowing their true personalities to shine through. Julia was no exception, and her session was filled with both silly and heartwarming moments that perfectly captured her playful and joyful spirit.
What makes these Birthday milestone sessions so special is the ability to freeze their current personality in time, allowing parents to look back and treasure the memories of their child's journey. These milestone sessions serve as a visual reminder of the passing years and the precious moments that make up childhood.
I cherish the opportunity to document these moments, as they allow me to capture the essence of a child's personality and create images that will be treasured for a lifetime. Julia's session was no exception, as we laughed, played, and captured moments that beautifully reflected her unique spirit and the love she shares with her family.
It's truly been a privilege of witnessing Julia's growth and capturing her milestones over the years. It's a heartwarming journey to see how much she has grown and evolved, and I am grateful to be a part of documenting her beautiful personality through these milestone sessions. I look forward to continuing this photographic journey with Julia and her family, capturing more cherished memories as she continues to bloom and thrive.
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL childrens photographer, published nationally and internationally.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL childrens photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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There is nothing quite as precious and heartwarming as a sweet newborn baby. Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting little Charlie and capturing so many adorable moments during a newborn session. What a joy to be a part of this beautiful family's journey and witness the love and excitement that filled the room.
Thanks to Charlie's grandmother, who had thoughtfully gifted the newborn session to Mom and Dad, what an incredible gift. Newborn photography sessions are my most expensive packages. When considering a gift for an expectant mother, a newborn photography session gift certificate is a thoughtful and lasting choice. It goes beyond traditional baby shower gifts and offers an experience that will be cherished for a lifetime. By gifting this special session, you provide parents with the opportunity to capture their baby's unique personality and create a collection of photographs that will forever hold a special place in their hearts.
From the moment Mom & Dad arrived, it was evident that Charlie's parents were overjoyed with their little bundle of joy. We included more personal touches, like with all my sessions. Mom mentioned Dad LOVES Baseball, so they brought in his glove, as well as me having some newborn-size props, and of course when Mom mentioned a little sheep would be adorable, I included that as well!
My goal was to create a relaxed and comfortable environment where we could capture Charlie's early moments of life all while creating lasting memories frozen in time. I try and make each session unique in its own way and personalized towards each family.
I'm always reminded of the profound joy and happiness that newborns bring into our lives.
Don't wait to schedule your newborn session AFTER delivery, the best time to schedule it is in your third trimester to guarantee availability. Next Baby Shower, consider the gift of lasting memories with a gift certificate for the expecting Mom and Dad.
As a professional photographer specializing in maternity sessions, I have had the pleasure of capturing countless moments of radiant expectant mothers. Each session is a celebration of the beauty, strength, and anticipation that comes with pregnancy. One thing I've learned over the years is that while inspirational images can serve as a starting point, they shouldn't dictate the entire session. Let us explore why it's essential to go beyond copying inspiration images and embrace the unique beauty of each couple or mom in front of the camera. I'll highlight the advantages of choosing a studio maternity session.
While inspirational images can be a valuable reference, it's important to remember that they represent someone else's journey and unique features. Every person is different, and it's the diversity of shapes, sizes, and personal styles that make each maternity session so special. As YOUR photographer, my goal is not to create a carbon copy of an inspiration image but to capture the individuality and essence of the couple or mom in front of me. By embracing their unique beauty, we create images that truly reflect their journey and create treasured memories that they will cherish forever.
The first image is the inspirational image Mom brought in. It's beautiful and we loved it...but,
This second image showcases the love, excitement, and adoration soon-to-be Dad has along with showcasing Moms stunning bump. *Mom chose my post vs the image she brought in for me.
Inspiration images can play a valuable role in guiding the creative direction of a session. They provide a starting point for discussions and help me understand the couple's preferences and desires. By considering their inspiration, we can tailor the session to their specific vision while still maintaining the authenticity that makes each session unique. It's about incorporating elements that resonate with the couple or mom.
One of the many advantages of opting for a studio boudoir maternity session is the controlled environment it offers. Unlike outdoor sessions, which can be affected by unpredictable weather, insects, or uncomfortable temperatures, a studio provides a serene and comfortable setting for capturing intimate moments. The focus remains solely on the couple or mom, allowing them to relax, unwind, and embrace the beauty of their pregnancy journey. Moreover, the studio provides backdrops, and lighting techniques, allowing for endless creative possibilities and ensuring a fun and enjoyable experience for all involved.
A studio boudoir maternity session provides a perfect backdrop for celebrating your unique journey into motherhood. Whether it's the soft lighting, elegant drapery, or artistic poses, the studio environment allows me to highlight the natural beauty of expectant mothers while creating a sense of intimacy and elegance. It's a space where you can feel empowered, confident, and truly shine, embracing your journey with grace and style.
So let's embrace your unique beauty, celebrate this extraordinary time, and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
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Meet Miss Ellie!! Sweetest little squish I finally was able to hold, snuggle, and photograph. With this current Pandemic of Covid19, we were afraid we wouldn't even be allowed to do photography yet and miss out on the chance to capture Ellies' newborn photos. She was just a little over a month old, and still very squishy, and posable. She didn't sleep the entire time like a week old might have, but I've had several one-two week old babies who didn't sleep a wink either. I always try to remind parents that as much as many photographers have instilled that newborn sessions HAVE to be done under two weeks old, that's not entirely true though. I've had successful sessions of full-term newborns at 6-8weeks old with having them sleep. It also has happened on more than one occasion where a newborn under 2-3weeks old refused to sleep altogether. Much of newborn photography is personality-based, these tiny little babies have super strong personalities :)
Ellie was a dream to work with!! She didn't sleep the entire time but had amazing eye contact and that's definitely not something that most one-two week old newborns are able to do successfully. She was able to sleep soundly while wrapped and even zonked out at the end of the session and allowed me to pose her in a more traditional studio posed photography matter and ROCKED it!!!
I've been working with Mom Tracy since she was expecting her first, Eden, all through Eden's first birthday and recently for Easter photos this year even. Ellie looks so much like her older sister and both such beautiful girls!
I cannot wait to continue to watch them both grow and blossom <3
Are you looking for a Chicago IL newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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I've been working with this wonderful family since before Emma was born, every session has been fun and beautiful in their own way. When Mark was born, we did our first Lifestyle session which turned out so beautiful and natural. We were able to get adorable photos of Emma and Mark together during Valentine's Day minis too!! Unfortunately, due to current events, we missed Marks actual first birthday session. We opted for a Porch/Neighborhood session and used the family backyard as well.
Emma is such a little model, smiling big and bright and loving posing for the camera now! Mark, OMG!! His sweet curls that everything, the way that curl fall in the front had me swooning <3
These are the types of sessions that are my favorite, of course, I give some direction in terms of posing/interaction but I love to capture the moments that are real reactions, emotions, and love.
Looking for a family photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove, IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
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It was so amazing to work with Sophie, Jess, Lily, and Penny their two Yorkies! When I originally spoke with Sophie and explained my vision of what I wanted to capture, I know that Jess was a tad nervous of my word ''intimate". To me intimacy isn't just physical, it's the emotion you feel around someone and that's what I'm aiming to capture with these couples sessions.
You fell in love for a reason, whether it was a month ago or 20 years ago. You fell in love. Your love is one of a kind, your quirks, humor, and emotion are like no one else's. Let us capture that!! If you're in a new relationship and you still have those butterflies every time you hold hands, kiss or embrace that's amazing! You've been in a long time relationship, you're comfortable with one another, your relationship and your love. You're newly engaged and you're smitten and excited for the new chapter that lays ahead! You're married (whether a year or 20), sometimes the day to day life of work, errands, simply adulting takes a toll on the relationship and we don't get to spend that one on one time with our loved one, especially after littles come. These would be a rekindle our love type session, remembering why you fell in love in the first place, recapturing your special unique relationship. We can be in your home to capture your day to day morning or I'll join you on your favorite activity out and about as you have a great time. These are meant to be documentary style, raw, authentic and to remind you how lucky you are to be with your significant other
During our session, I asked Sophie and Jess to be themselves, they'd ask me for direction and I'd keep telling them to do what's natural to them and their relationship. Of course, I'd give them prompts here and there to evoke a certain emotion, a laugh or a moment.
I'm so utterly in love with how these turned out, I left their home so inspired and happy for genuine love!!
Sophie being an amazing photographer herself it's always somewhat nerve-wracking to do their photos, but it was so much fun working with them both.
Here's a little recap into the session and their love story <3
How they met: Jess and I met at yoga. We both did “yoga for trade” which is where you cleaned the studio for 3 hours a week in exchange for a yoga membership. The first time I saw Jess was when she was coming for a class. I noticed her bright smile and eyes and thought she was just super cool. I got little butterflies every time I saw her but didn’t exactly realize what I was feeling until later. I had thrown a few compliments her way which I guess was me flirting. The story we tell everyone is that as she was leaving the studio one day I said, “I like your shirt!” and she didn’t hear me, so I sarcastically said, “or not…” and she turned around and was like “oh you were talking to me? Thanks.” And she left. I complimented her hair and nice tan as well before. I’m clearly super slick. Anyways, for whatever reason, I decided to be the biggest creep and look for Jess’ name on the yoga for trade sign up sheet so I could add her on facebook like the weirdo I am. She accepted, made a status about wanting tacos, and I took the bait, commented I love tacos, and we got tacos. We always joke how neither of us is the type of person who would go eat tacos with a random person we had just met, just the two of us. I guess it was our first date! Since Jess is the first girl I’d ever been with, my feelings weren’t clear to me until we hung out at her apartment once. The rest is history!
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago, IL couples photographer and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand-picked community of elite businesses nationwide.
Are you looking for a Chicago, IL couples, lifestyle, or baby milestone/family photography? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
I wasn't sure how to phrase this blogpost - Anna is my best friend and my heart still breaks their for loss...what a strange word...loss. I don't think my words can do this session justice, so I asked Anna to write in her own words.
"Pregnancy after loss. It’s hard to put into words the pain, the fear, the hope. I tried to detach myself for so long so that if “it” happened again it might hurt less. After all, wouldn’t it have been easier if we didn’t find out their gender, didn’t name them, didn’t fall in love with them? The truth is, I loved them as soon as I saw the second line on the pregnancy test and it was no different this time. I spent half of this pregnancy withdrawn from the world, a giant ball of anxiety in my stomach. I tried to wrap myself in a bubble. I moved as little as humanly possible. I wouldn’t go in a pool. I could not afford to do anything that I did last time. I held my breath until we reached 24 weeks; random some would say, but in the loss community very well known as “viability day”. This is when I started to breathe again. Feeling baby Benjamin moving inside of me has been such a gift. It has restored a piece of my heart. We recently “celebrated” Noah and Nathan’s first birthday. They are not with us, but they have taught us. Terrible things happen. We survived. We yelled. We grieved. We fell down the deepest pit. And we climbed out together, as a family. Children shouldn’t have to lose their siblings. Children shouldn’t have to question whether this baby will come home with us. But ours do. But they also think of their brothers, say their names, cry for them. If there’s anything I wish people understood, it’s that the scar of their loss is permanent. It won’t be erased by Benny. It won’t be erased by time. Their loss is a defining point of our lives. It has fundamentally changed us. We will miss them forever. We will love them forever. As I write this, at 36 weeks and 3 days, I am huge and uncomfortable and so incredibly grateful. I cannot wait to hold this sweet, little guy in my arms. And I cannot wait for our family to be complete when we become a family of eight, even if you can’t see two of us."
Q&A with Mama to be:
1. Did you have reservations about doing this maternity session?
Absolutely! I felt like anything I did to celebrate this pregnancy would jinx it somehow.
2. What finally prompted you to go forward with the session? Are you happy you did?
I had to wait until we were at a gestation where if something happened, I knew we at least had a chance. Plus some gentle nudging. I am so happy we did. It was a very cathartic experience and I felt such a weight lifted by being able to mourn the twins and celebrate Benny at the same time.
3. What advice do you have for moms struggling with the decision of going through with sessions after a loss?
Do whatever you’re comfortable with. Nobody is on YOUR journey except for you. Do what you need to heal.
4. Having been your first ''real'' maternity session - was it what you expected??
It’s a lot of work! I went in to it very open minded because I trust you 500% and that was perfect. The session and photos exceeded my expectations and I was able to relinquish control and just be there in the moment.
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL maternity photographer and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand-picked community of elite businesses nationwide.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL baby milestone/family photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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It was such a pleasure meeting and working with Rachel and Joe. I was originally contacted by Rachel's mom to arrange their session as a gift, how utterly sweet of Grandma to be so involved and help out during what is a stressful time for most with all the arrangements that go along with expecting.
Just so happened the night before, Rachel MUA had a family emergency to tend to and on short notice, I was able to recommend Makeup by Lauren. She did an amazing job as always and Rachel glowed!
Joe and she were both so easy and wonderful to work with, taking direction with such ease and grace.
Sad we weren't able to step outside for a few as the weather was actually in the high 40's that day, but all the snow was melting into dirty mush :(
Wishing this wonderful growing family the best of luck on with their soon sweet baby boy and to see them again soon!
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL baby photographer and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand-picked community of elite businesses nationwide.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL baby milestone/family photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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I didn't get the email this year but, once again, I'm so honored to be chosen as one of the TOP Chicago Newborn Photographer by Expertise.com. This is now the 4th year at the top and I couldn't be happier and prouder where my work has come!
I'm always learning, adapting and experimenting to give my clients the best possible experience, in a safe, comfortable and enjoyable environment.
The site looked over 998 (WOW) local Chicago Newborn Photographers and selected the TOP 21 based on:
Reputation: A history of delighted customers and outstanding service.
Credibility: Building customer confidence with licensing, accreditations, and awards
Experience: Masters of their craft, based on years of practical experience and education
Availability: Consistently approachable and responsive, so customers never feel ignored
Experience: Providing service with honesty, reliability, and respect
This year is going to be amazing and capturing growing families is where my heart truly is. Schedule your maternity and newborn sessions ahead of time. The year fills up quickly and I'd hate for you to miss your chance.
It's best to have your maternity session booked by 22 weeks and we generally do the session as early as 26-33wks (I prefer to have my moms semi comfortable still and be able to still walk, especially for outdoor sessions).
It's best to have your newborn session booked prior to the arrival of your bundle of joy, once your sweetie is here things get a little hectic and the last thing you want to do is search for a photographer with last minute availability. Newborn sessions typically take place in the first 3 weeks of life, while your baby is still in the sleepy newborn stages, not so susceptible to sound and touch.
I'm looking forward to an amazing snugglefest of newborns this year and I cannot wait to meet and work with new and currently families!
See more from Exptertise.com
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago, IL baby photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. An Internationally Published Photographer.
Are you looking for a Chicago, IL baby photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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I simply cannot get enough of miss Eden!! I've been working with her family since she was still in mama's belly and I adore them all.
When Eden came to me for her newborn session, poor sweetie had a dislocated arm and was in a sling so we had to adjust how we posed, worked, the props we used and outfits that would work to seamlessly adjust to give mommy and daddy as close to newborn posing as possible given the setback.
I saw miss Eden again for her six month sitting milestone and her first birthday cake smash. So when her mommy told me she really wanted to celebrate the milestone of weaning Eden off of breast milk with a milk bath session, I was all for it! Eden simply loved it! she splashed around in the tub, flashed me her adorable contagious smile and won my heart all over once again.
Milk bath session like these are so much fun! I also offer the option of a bubble bath after cake smashes (or any favorite food smash at the first year milestone session).
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago, IL baby photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. An Internationally Published Photographer.
Are you looking for a Chicago, IL baby photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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Hybrid Indoor First Birthday Cake Smash & Outdoor Family Photographer
Karim turned one!! It's been a whirlwind of a year full of adventures, I was so excited when I originally met his mommy and daddy for their maternity session last spring. We had decided to do a hybrid studio cake smash and an outdoor family session later in the summer. Only things kept pushing back and further back and we didn't get to do the family photos until Fall!! :O Needless to say, they turned out gorgeous even though our original plans were for beach photos. Karim's first birthday theme was Mickey Mouse and not only that but, shortly after the session he traveled to World Disney World for the first time to celebrate with mommy and daddy!
Sessions like these, where we're able to capture studio portraits and outdoor family photos is the best of both worlds. Especially during the cold months, since I do not recommend for kids under 2 yrs old to do outdoor photos unless they're themed, ie: sledding as a family activity just as an example. Many don't know, but I do offer Holiday Setups in the studio during the cold months for family/baby sessions. I'll have sneak peeks to show of some different setups soon :)
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL baby photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL baby milestone/family photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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Words cannot express the adoration I have for this family! I'm known mom since High School days and dad since their engagement session (way back in the day!) Mom has also helped me out several times with a fun dance project I took on a few years back and till this day are some of my favorite shots captured. We've done maternity photos, newborn, milestones, family, and now baby Camila joins this beautiful family :)
Of course we chatted for months leading to the session about how to make it special, personal and relative. Mama owns the Rhythmic Gymnastics studio, located in Buffalo Grove, IL so we thought it'd be super cute to incorporate a photo to represent that passion. When we did Nicholas's newborn photos, we did a basketball setup for Daddy's love of the sport and decided to have a similar setup with baby sister as well. I just love how it turned out!
Camila was so perfectly squishy, sweet and posed simply amazingly! I'm so thrilled for mom and dad with their sweet her addition :) Seeing posted videos and photos of how much Nicholas loves his baby sister is so heartwarming, he's such a great big brother already!
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL baby photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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Chicago Studio Newborn Photographer
Meet Miss Sabrina!! A perfect little squish who looks identical to her daddy and big brother Sammy!! I've known Diana for forever, well before I met my husband and realized he was attending their wedding the day after our very first date :) We quickly grew to be great friends, and I was fortunate enough to capture most of Sammy's milestones. I was a much different photographer back then (he'll be 6 this May), but none the less the moments are special for mom and dad! I was soo thrilled when Diana and Alek's announced they were expecting and couldn't wait to meet their princess.
Diana was due on April 11'th and was always teasing how she hoped she wouldn't go into labor early or especially on April Fools day. Ironically enough, that's exactly what happened!! Sabrina couldn't wait any longer to meet her mommy, daddy and big brother. Arriving April 1st at 3:05 am and weighing a whopping 8lbs 1oz and 20.5 inches long!! I came to visit them in the hospital the day she was born and it was so surreal! I typically see newborns in the studio at 6-8lbs around day 6-14 and miss Sabrina was well over that mark on day 1! She was so sleepy and snuggly and I was 100% smitten with her! As we hung out and chatted about Diana's quick delivery, I couldn't help but coo and aww over her (even posing with her with a few snapchat filters) :P As her daddy said, "This is what happens when you let a photographer hold your baby", hehe :)
When it came time for her session, I couldn't get over how squishy and adorable she was! I have to give Sammy some major props, usually older siblings leave the studio after they're done with their part. Sammy on the other hand was soo well behaved and interested in helping and followed directions to the T! He loved snuggling, holding and giving her kisses. She's one lucky little lady to have his love and affection.
The session came and went and all was well, I'm soo pleased with the outcome of the gallery and for having this opportunity to capturing these fleeting moments to our dear friends!
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL baby photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>Chicago Studio Newborn Photographer
My best friend had her baby girl!! She may be 3 months old already but I was finally able to finish her newborn session and write about it. Just in time for Yana's first Mother's Day!!!! I was super excited to be able to capture this wonderful and exciting time for Yana and Matt. Avital or Tali for short is absolutely perfect! I was able to visit her when she arrived home at only 4 days new and we started right away to brainstorm for her newborn session. As always, I let every parent know that their baby will rule the session and will decide what will happen. Tali's personality is strong :) She didn't really allow for me to do 2/3rd of what I wanted to capture for her mommy and daddy. She did do amazing though as long as mom or dad were holding her. Fully awake and looking right into the camera! This is rather rare, but so wonderful!
After some time, we simply realized that Tali didn't want to be a little model and we called it. The session may not have gone as we plan (which is more common than not), but the memories and the images we were able to capture are some of my favorite!
Here's more from when Tali was still in the belly!
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL baby photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>"Today you are you! That is truer than true! There is no one alive who is you-er than you!" - Dr. Seuss
Miss Lennon is a hoot!! I met her mama last year, jus one month shy of Lennon's arrival. We hit it off rather quickly and I couldn't wait to meet this sweetie! When she arrived, I stopped by her home and captured an adorable 7 day old portrait of her with mama and papa (she already had a formal newborn session scheduled), this was very spur of the moment. I start working with Talie, Lennon's mama, and many of you have had the pleasure of meeting her as my assistant during maternity and newborn sessions. I've had the pleasure of capturing her 3 month, 6 months and now one year milestones :)
She's been my little model for new outfits and props and always does such a great job. This time around, I've been wanting to capture and offer Spaghetti Smashes in additional to Cake Smashes for my milestone sessions. Many kids simply don't like cake or sweets, but most kids do have spaghetti by the age of one and typically love it!
Lennon is incredibly adorable, she doesn't sit still for a second and does an amazing Army crawl. She had her mama, myself and my mom working tirelessly the entire session to keep her contained - until she had some food in front of her of course and then she sat still and munched on yummy spaghetti and lemon cake! Yum!
I'm so thrilled with how the gallery turned out - Lennon was absolutely perfect for this session!
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL baby photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. An Internationally Published Photographer.
Are you looking for a Chicago, IL baby photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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Being a photographer makes it hard to be in front of the camera (not for everyone, but for majority I'd say). I wasn't too keen on being photographed, but Mike, of Michael Novo Photography, is pretty good at convincing and also making women in particular super comfortable with posing and the general feeling of being a 'fish out of water'.
He and I planned a few looks, and I completely dropped the ball by only grabbing one of the dresses with me instead of 2-3. True to Mike's nature he just went with the flow :) Something I always recommend for my own client as well is getting their hair and makeup done, the way you feel and carry yourself is a game changer. He scheduled for Anna Banas to come to his studio and she did a great job. I highly recommend her if you're looking for a new Makeup Artist to try.
Since I forgot extra outfits, we did a few starter ''warm up'' shots with my "Newborn Artist" T-shirt from Strawberry Revolution. Mike handed me his Nikon camera (I've always been and always will be a Canon girl though) and he helped ease me into posed, making me laugh and get comfortable.
I didn't realize how much fun it would actually be to not worry about the lights, camera settings or posing. To just relax and feel good while someone else captured the moment.
Mike did a wonderful job and I highly recommend him for your portrait, wedding and boudoir inquiries.
Thanks for making me feel beautiful!
Chicago Studio Pregnancy Photographer
Matthew and Sam reached out to me more or less on short notice for their maternity session. They had seen a co-worker's maternity and newborn sessions from last year that I did, and decided last minute to capture this moment in their lives. I'm always so thrilled to be able to take on last minute session, but sadly I'm not always available as my schedule fills up very quickly. I really hate having to turn away excited moms and dads during such a special time in their lives. I highly suggest booking maternity sessions prior to being 25 weeks along, this leaves us time to find a date. I typically do maternity sessions as early as 28 weeks and try to not schedule later than 33 weeks in case we need to reschedule with weather.
Matthew and Sam were both so much fun to work with. Both so eager to meet their little one, share their love and experience this new chapter. Sam is so gorgeous and her smile lit up the room with light and love. Matthew adoringly giving her kisses!
I love outdoor sessions, but we're able to do boudoir type photos in the studio that we're not really able to do outdoors. I get to be creative with lights, shadows and illusions. Sam was such a sport and posed with ease and grace.
Thank you for choosing me for your special moments!
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Chicago Baby Milestone Photographer
Baby Zuri is a perfect as they come!! She stayed super happy, connected with the camera and a simple joy to work with! As soon as Zuri, mama and grandma arrived at the studio I knew I was done for. All the smiles and little flirts completely stole my heart.
We moved through the session with such ease, quickly changing outfits and sets and Zuri staying perfectly content through the whole process. Many babies get irritated with outfit changes, their attention span is limited at this age still, they get hungry and needs breaks. Not miss Zuri :) While her mommy and I were emailing back and forth planning for her session she had some ideas from my previous sessions she wanted to incorporate and I'm so glad Zuri played along for mama with her all pink girly setup!
I don't think it's a secret that I adore babies of all ages. My favorites though if I had to choose would be newborns, six months and a year. With newborns I get to cuddle and pose them as they are a few days old still. At six months, were able to play and interact and connect with the camera along with some adorable setups. With one year old sessions, most parents choose to do a cake smash in additional to their formal portraits. This year, I'm also offering spaghetti smashes, and in the summer watermelon and bubble bath add-ons!! How much fun is that?!
I'm hoping to see more of Miss Zuri soon!!
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL baby photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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Chicago Studio Newborn Photographer
I do not typically do model calls anymore unless a vendor needs something showcased or I'm looking to try something new. Last month, I was lucky enough to start my marketing/promotional video with, Geoff, whom I've worked with before on a previous session video.
A friend reached out to Michelle to let her know that her sweet Rory might be the perfect little model for what I needed to capture during the session. First of all, can we talk about her name! I cannot get over how adorable and how well it suits her. She posed so wonderfully and her mommy and daddy both so sweet and fun to work with.
I'm a huge fan of all types of art, body art is just another form of expression and is beautiful! Of course I wanted to incorporate daddy's art into the session as well and I think it was just the extra touch of color that made it perfect for their daddy & daughter photos. What made them extra amazing is the fact that Rory not only stayed awake while in daddy's arms, but also looked right into the camera as daddy snuggled her.
I think every photographer has their favorite pose no matter how many times we do them, and every baby's flexibility and ability is different that no matter how often we do the pose it's always different. My favorites happen to be the froggy pose (where the baby holds their head in their hands. ***For safety this is a composite, baby is never holding the weight of their head on their own) and the bum up pose, where they're curved with their little tushy in the air <3
Rory was a dream and I'm so happy with how her little modelling session turned out - I'm eager to see the video and to share it with you all!
Onesie by: Tham Nguyen Photography Props
Koala Hat by: Snug Sparrow Newborn Props
Elephant Hat by: No. 2 Willow Lane
Elephant Lovie by: Buttercup Baby Props
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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Chicago Studio Maternity Photographer
I cannot get over how adorable this soon to be family of four is! I first met Jenny and Paul last year for their maternity session for Kosta. Then again when Kosta was born for his newborn session. Mama is expecting again, and another sweet little boy!! Kosta is going to have a best friend and little brother soon.
At the time of the session, Jenny was 31 weeks along and barely showing still! I think possibility carrying even smaller the second time around. Kosta is already nine months old and such a little ham! He was so flirty and had a good time hanging with his papa while we focused on his mama.
Last year we had done a home lifestyle hybrid maternity session. Their beautiful decor and style was the perfect scenery, but of course we wanted to capture a different look for this year. Since it's still gloomy and the weather has been super inconsistent, we decided on a classic studio maternity session. Jenny is breathtakingly beautiful, with classic elegant and grace. She's a natural in front of the camera, the only difficultly I encountered was making sure her baby bump was visible as she's carrying on the smaller side.
I'm impatiently waiting for their newborn session and cannot wait to see Kosta with his little brother!
Maternity Gown by: Mila Renert
Maternity Gown by: Mila Renert
Maternity Gown by: Mama Bump Rentals
Maternity Gown by: Mila Renert
Maternity Tutu by: Mila Renert
Maternity Gown by: Sew Trendy Accessories
Maternity Gown by: Sew Trendy Accessories
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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Wow, what a power couple!! It was so much fun meeting and working with Angelica and Benny. During the inquiry process and booking, I solely spoke with dad and we discussed and prepped all the ideas together. When we met for their session, I mentioned and gave a huge pat on the back for being the most involved dad to date. His response was so simple and perfect, "She's got enough on her plate, this was the least I could do for her". Swoon!!! Take note husbands and daddy's to be!!
I like to make all my sessions fun, but especially maternity ones. If we're having fun it'll show on the images and it'll be what you'll remember when you look back to this special time. I like to play music to help relax the parents to be and Angelica chose Country Tunes which had her smiling and swaying!
It's so fun knowing the stories behind the love of two people, it's adorable that these two have been together through High School and College with such a strong and deep love for one another. I know their little bundle is going to be loved immensely and unconditionally!
I'm so thrilled with how this session went and the beautiful moments I was able to capture, now I just sit back and wait to snuggle their cutie!
Maternity gown by Sew Trendy
Maternity gown by Sew Trendy
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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Chicago Baby Milestone Photographer
Oh little Jonah!! You're a gem and the apple of mama and papa's eye! I've been friends with his mama since I was roughly nine years old and she's my first and longest friendship since coming to America. During Rita's pregnancy we've only referred to this little guy as, DangerBoy :) It's how mama originally also made their announcement they were expecting. Hence his onesie and cape wearing way!
Jonah flashed a few smiles here and there but he definitely made me work hard to the gallery we captured. How adorable is he in posing!!
Maybe Jonah will be a very talented pianist like his mama and grandma are, for now he simply enjoyed hitting those keys and creating ''music''. I simply adore this little man and can't wait to continue to be a part of his life and to watch him grow.
Sorry mama it took me forever to finish his gallery though :-*
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL baby photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>Chicago Baby Milestone Photographer
I adore little Max!! I haven't seen him since his newborn session and oh boy has be grown and has become such a handsome cutie! His eight month session may have been short but it wasn't lacking in smiles of adorableness. Little Batman is such a flirt and all smiles and happiness. His big blue eyes, chubby cheeks, rolls for days and his captivating smile never gets old!
I love photographing sitter sessions, babies are able to sit (best when they're able to sit unassisted for safety purposes), still do tummy time or are starting to crawl too. Their personality shines through as they're more interactive at this stage of their development. We're able to change out a number of outfits, props and setups.
I have the cutest neighbors ever and I love being able to capture his milestones :)
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL baby photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>Chicago Studio Newborn Photographer
Layla's mama reached out to me after she was already born. I was happy I was able to fit her onto the schedule as more often than not I don't have the availability for last minute newborns. It makes me super sad when I have to turn parents away when I can't fit them into the schedule. Thankfully everything worked out and I was able to meet Layla!! I had met mama many many years ago through a mutual friend, we used to watch American Idol (Season 1) together (should be an indication of how long ago this was...). Doreen has an amazing voice herself and I believe even auditioned back in the day!
Both Doreen and Dan (I was very surprised little one didn't have a D starting name too) were both so sweet and caring towards one another and so very much in love with Layla. Every session I take and every newborn I meet they leave a lasting impression on me and during Layla's sessions it was so cute when she smiled in mama's arms, but more so that she liked to stick her tongue out...the whole time! I find that incredibly cute and endearing, some newborns just prefer it this way :P
I couldn't be happier with how Layla's session turned out and I'm so thrilled to have been able to be apart of her first photo shoot!
Onesie and Skirt by: Tham Nguyen Photography Props
Headband by: Jennley Studio Props
Hammock and Pillow by: Lemon & Pearl Design
Wool Layer by: Buttercup Baby Props
Hood Wrap by: No. 2 Willow Lane
Wool Layer by: Buttercup Baby Props
Outfit by: Lemon & Pearl Design
Wool Layer by: Buttercup Baby Props
Chair by: Posing Pod
Headband by: Tham Nguyen Photography Props
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>Chicago Studio Newborn Photographer
Shailen - you'll move mountains!
I love meeting new families especially from referrals from other mamas! Disha reached out to me after seeing my best friends maternity and newborn sessions. Disha and Akhil were so wonderful to work with and Shailen a complete joy!
I always notify parents prior to sessions that your little ones run the show, they are the boss 100%! They each have their own level of flexibility, comfort and preferences. There are babies who sleep and pose in props great and some that don't at all. There are newborns who pose effortlessly on the beanbag (for those sleepy curly newborn poses) and some who don't allow for any to be captured. It's not that galleries are better or worse, but just different as each baby is individual and they already has their own personality and needs. Shailen, enjoyed being in mommy and daddy's arms along with being snuggled up in the rug the most! We were able to capture some adorable wide awake moments with amazing connection with the camera - daddy's little football player was ready for his closeup! My absolute favorite vendor and moms adore the animals sets I provide are by Snug Sparrow Newborn Props and Knits. Whenever I need a custom order or have a wacky idea (like a knight in shining armor look) she's my go to person!
Thank you for choosing to work with me and my creative vision.
Romper by: AD Fotografia
Pants by: Tham Nguyen Photography Props
Chair by: Posing Pod
Wool Layers by: Buttercup Baby Props
Pants by: Tham Nguyen Photography Props
Scroll Bed by: JD Vintage Props
Wool Layer by: Buttercup Baby Props
Romper by: Tham Nguyen Photography Props
Animal Hats & Lovies by: Snug Sparrow Newborn Props
Globe by: Buttercup Baby Props
Sleepy Night Cap by: Lorna Doone Prop Shop
Hat & Bear Lovie by: Snug Sparrow Newborn Props
Football and Wool Layer by: Buttercup Baby Props
Driftwood Bowl by: Mr. & Mrs. Co
Jersey by: Sweet Pea Knits
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>To new beginnings...
Maternity sessions are so special not only for my expecting mama's, but for me as well. Something about creating and growing life that brings joy and happiness into our lives. The excitement of meeting a perfect little baby two people in love conceived is magical.
Chicago has been finicky with weather as of late - so most of the recent maternity sessions have been done in the studio and allowed for me to play with light, posing and the connection between parents more than when we work outdoors, where the scenery pops more creating a different type of portrait. For some studio sessions are more difficult as there is more camera connection and less distractions. I typically like to start off with mom and dad together so they have one another to lean on and build a level of comfort not only with me, but with the camera as well. I always joke that the beginning of the session is a night and day difference in posing and confidence. By the time we finish, my mama's know exactly how to pose and what photographs best on them. Their confidence is through the roof as they feel beautiful, sexy and vibrant.
I loved working with this sweet couple as they await their bundle's arrival, Emily being a complete natural in front of the camera and having such beautiful pose and grace! I'm impatiently waiting to meet their sweetie soon!!
Maternity gown by Sew Trendy
Maternity gown by Sew Trendy
Maternity gown by Mila Renert
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>I loved working with Prachi and Kaushik when I met them last year for their maternity session. Their gallery then was stunning and we instantly clicked! Such an incredibly sweet couple who couldn't wait to meet their baby boy!
Due to unforeseen circumstances there were complications after birth and we weren't able to schedule Kiyansh until he was 8 weeks old, which is much further along than I ever suggest doing newborn sessions. Despite being much older and having had a bit of a rougher start, he was a perfect little baby! Being older he didn't really want to sleep all that much, but we were able to get some adorable sleepy shots and poses as well as fully alert and full eye contact.
He's a sweet little warrior who's going to go through life having already survived the hardest and the rest is easy breezy from here. We started off with parent photos, and being 8 weeks old he was much larger, and heavier than a typical newborn. He was fully alert and the adorable, his full face yawn totally stole my heart! Mom and dad have been doing an amazing job supporting one another and being there for all of Kiyansh's needs. They're not only so beyond in love with him but their love for one another is just as beautiful.
During Kiyansh's session I started capturing a new favorite moment/pose. While doing the bum up pose (which is the curly tushie pose) I have dads and sometimes moms place their hand on their little bundles. This not only shows the sheer size of how small or big their newborn is, but also creates a deeper connection to the image by being a part of the photo with their cutie.
Mama has been sending me updated video's and photos as Kiyansh has been developing and growing and I absolutely LOVE being a part of your little ones growth journey, please always feel free to update me!!
Thank you for choosing me and trusting me with your most precious gift in life.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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Back in December a had a very eager and excited dad reach out about a maternity session. They had just flown into Chicago the previous weekend and were looking to book something last minute. I was able to squeeze Tosin and Adejoke in for a stunning maternity session. I had such a great time getting to know them and their cutie, learning about their culture, occupations and how they were enjoying the windy city!
When they returned for Zoe's newborn session I was completely smitten with her! Her luscious locks, chubby cheeks and adorable little lips! Not only did the session go amazingly well, she slept so well and posed beautifully! Her big brother was such a champ during all the photos as well.
It's not very difficult to see how very much in love the whole family is with this adorable sweetie. She was due on February 15, but decided to arrive earlier so we did her session on Valentine's Day. Since it was a day of love, I incorporated some adorable V-Day setups with colors and little hearts : )
Be sure to scroll all the way down to view images form mama's maternity session as well!
Here's a look into Zoe's mama's maternity session back in December.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>Soon there will be three...
I've had the pleasure of being friends and now even family with Yana since freshman year of High School where we met by chance. We're been besties ever since that summer she turned sixteen, I don't have many memories that have shaped me without Yana being a part of them.
When Yana and Matt met, it wasn't hard to see how much in love and perfect they were for one another. We stood by one another as we both married our other halves. My husband and I were lucky enough to spend my birthday in London visiting these lovebirds while they lived abroad for an adventure of a lifetime...until last year Yana announced to me they were expecting!! The true adventure of life is now just beginning!
The words: thrilled, ecstatic and happy are simply not strong enough to express my joy as they expected their little ''bananchik". They decided to keep the gender a surprise and referred to their baby as a little growing banana.
When we were brainstorming their maternity session, I knew that Yana and Matt are a more lifestyle approach couple and that's what I had suggested, that we do a combination of lifestyle intimate life moments and some fun outdoor Chicago locations. I couldn't have been happier with the results of their session.
Their love speaks for themselves in the image :) Scroll the bottom to see a preview from their newborn session...did they have a boy or a girl?
Meet sweet baby Avital "Tali"
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>"When I saw you I fell in love, and you smiled because you knew." - William Shakespeare
Nancy and Johnathon are on the fast track to happily ever after, experiencing love at first sight for a second time when they first laid their eyes on tiny Alessandra. I love getting to know my clients, and learning their love stories. Nancy and Johnathon met while they were living in Chicago and New York, but quickly fell in love despite the distance. They quickly picked Chicago as their home together, got married, and welcomed sweet Alessandra into their hearts! Despite all the exhaustion new parenthood brings, you cannot mistake how in love these two are with each other and their new baby girl.
Alessandra was the tiniest baby that I have had the pleasure of photographing, weighing in at a mere 5 pounds of pure perfection. She had the tiniest little details and wispy hair. She also has a natural talent as a newborn model because she would perfectly pose herself with her little hands! Alessandra was so much fun to work with and snuggle. Baby girl didn't want to sleep too much, but when she did we were able to get beautiful images of her, as well as with the whole family.
Congratulations Nancy and Johnathon! Alessandra is just perfect!
Headband/Wool Layer/Nest: Buttercup Baby Props
Mouse Bonnet: Pup & Frank
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago newborn photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
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My best friend is having a baby! Rita and I have been friends since we were about 10 years old. Our moms worked together, and decided to introduce the families. We soon became inseparable, and have been through everything together! Boyfriends, graduations, weddings, and now the next phase of life - mommyhood! Despite being friends forever, I have only ever photographed Rita and her husband Dan one other time, before their official engagement session. It was also before I was a professional photographer. Even so, we captured some great memories that day when they were just babies, and real babies were a distant thought.
I traveled to Wisconsin to do Rita and Dan's maternity session, and was looking forward to working in different landscape and locations. However, while I was there, the weather was unseasonably cold and far too cold for being outside in maternity gowns! Luckily, I always like to be prepared, and I had brought my studio lighting even though the plan had been an all outdoor session. We did go outside in Rita and Dan's backyard quickly, and were able to get some gorgeous images in a short amount of time. For the rest of the session, however, we stayed nice and warm with a cozy lifestyle session!
We had so much fun together, and lots of laughs. The images perfectly capture Rita and Dan's relationship. They are so comfortable with and have such a natural love for one another. Plus, they love to laugh together. They also have the best smiles! I am pretty certain that their little love will also have an amazing smile
I am so excited to be on this journey with Rita and Dan. I know that they will be amazing parents, and I cannot wait to watch it happen!
I am also so excited to be an auntie and can't wait to snuggle their baby!
Maternity gowns by Sew Trendy
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>Perfect Diana recently came to visit me at my studio for her newborn session, along with her mama, Ira, and her mother's cousin, Svitlana, who was helping Ira adjust to mommy-hood. Ira, looked amazing for being just 16 days post-partum. Typically, I like to schedule my newborn sessions before 16 days old but sometimes it just does not work out with scheduling. Diana was a dream regardless of being a few days older than I prefer. At 8 pounds, Diana was just a perfect squishy babe.
When we got started with the setups of Ira and Diana together, Diana was wide awake but she was so happy and content in her mama's arms. The resulting images are absolutely stunning portraits of a mother and her new baby. When it came time to get Diana to sleep, it took a little work but once she was asleep, she was wonderful. Her round cheeks and creamy complexion make her look just like a little baby doll, and I could not get enough of her! We were able to get through so many poses and setups, including one that I was sure we would not be able to do given her age.
The hanging floral wreath prop that I have is gorgeous but a bit more of difficult prop to use during a session. Of course, newborn safety is my top priority, and all images are composites. Hands are on the baby at all times. Even so, it is still a prop that you want to have a baby in a deep sleep to use. Diana did super! With the help of my assistant, and Ira's cousin Svitlana, we were able to capture the sweetest images of Diana in the floral wreath.
Finally, if you are already in the studio to help mama (and me) during the session, then you really need to get in at least a couple of images! It took some convincing but I was able to get Svitlana to agree. I am so happy she did because the moments captured are just beautiful, and ones that I know will always be special to the entire family!
Thank you Ira, Svitlana and Diana for spending part of your day with me!
Gracee Collections
Mouse bonnet: Pup and Frank
Mouse lovie: Just Peri
Cat bonnet/lovie & matching headbands: Snug Sparrow Newborn Props and Knits
Felt nest/Heart/Headband: Buttercup Baby Props
Bonnet/Bump Blanket: ShaeKnits
Floral Wreath: Props by Mila
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago newborn photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
"In a child's eyes, a mother is a goddess." - N.K. Jemison
Gorgeous Jazlynn recently came to my studio with two goddesses, her mother and grandmother. These three generations of beauty were such a pleasure to work with during Jazlynn's newborn session. If you remember Gabriela's maternity session, she was stunning in every maternity gown. I was thrilled when she was eager to put on one of the gowns for some gorgeous images with her new baby.
Gabriela's mother, and Jazlynn's grandmother, was there for Gabriela during her maternity session so I was happy to get her in front of the camera during Jazlynn's newborn session. I love to include grandparents if they are alrady attending a newborn session because their relationship is so special. To be able to document it from the beginning is a true gift. The three generations portraits are always some of my favorites from these sessions.
Jazlynn was so good for me during her session. She is just perfectly squishy with round cheeks and sweet rolls. With a head full of dark hair and delicate features, she is just as stunning as her mama and grandma! I loved snuggling and soothing Jazlynn, and her session reconfirmed for me that newborn photography is the type of photography that I was meant to do. The skill and dedication that goes into learning newborn photography is worth every snuggle with these little miracles. The newborn stage of life is fleeting, and over in the blink of the eye. To be able to capture these moments for my clients is such a gift.
Gown: Props by Mila aka my amazing assistant and mom :)
Headband: Gracelee Collection
Outfits: Tham Nguyen Photography Props
Nest: Buttercup Baby Props
Peach Lace Outfit/Bonnet: Nuage Made
Lamb Bonnet: The Peppered Pear
Mouse Bonnet: Pup and Frank
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago newborn photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>Beautiful little Ayva was the perfect newborn at six days new. She slept like a dream and she eased into every pose effortlessly. Her daddy assisted me with the potato sack pose, and did a great job! I often enlist the help of dads during certain poses (if my assistant isn't available). It helps me, keeps the little love safe, and it gives dads a special hands-on job with their baby. So much of the newborn stage and bonding is in the mama's hands, especially if she is nursing. Including dads during my sessions is always a fun treat for everyone!
Ayva looked absolutely amazing on a purple backdrop! I love how the purple and yellow pastel tones look together. It feels like Spring, and it makes me happy! Ayva loved being all curled up, and was one of the easiest newborns to pose. She has the best back rolls, and her little tushy up pose was perfect! I was even lucky enough to capture a couple of sweet little smiles! She also did great for the Dream Catcher prop, as it's one of the tougher props, it requires a super sleepy newborn for safety (this prop is always done as a composite, baby is never hanging in the air).
I just loved snuggling Ayva. She stole my heart! I am so happy with how her gallery came out, and I hope her family is too! Thank you Sofiya and Leon for bringing in your precious Ayva! Congratulations on becoming a family of three!
Wool nest/Wool Layers by Buttercup Baby Props
Lamb Bonnet by The Peppered Pear
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago newborn photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>Oana, Mihai and Briana are waiting to meet a new member of their family, and they are so excited. We had a beautiful evening the night of Oana's maternity session. The lighting was gorgeous, and it was the perfect time for a session and some fun!
We started the session with some family images. Briana was so sweet with her mama, and is so excited to become a big sister! I love maternity sessions with an older sibling. The images of a pregnant mama with her first baby are always so sweet. After we completed the family portion, Briana had a great time playing and running with her daddy while I focused on Oana. They even met a deer family!
Oana is a gorgeous mama-to-be and is a natural in front of the camera. All the gowns hugged her beautiful baby bump perfectly! As I prepare for a maternity session with my clients, I always let them know that they may be a little sore in their legs and back the day after their maternity session. Many of my maternity clients put away their heels long before their session, so they may work some different muscles than normal after wearing heels during their session!
Oana did amazing during her session in heels, and looked beautiful. We took several breaks to make sure she stayed hydrated! Changing in and out of some of the maternity gowns is no easy feat when you are 7 to 8 months pregnant! The results are so worth it though when you get a gorgeous maternity gallery like Oana's! Thank you for spending a beautiful evening with me Oana, Mihai and Briana!
Maternity gowns by Sew Trendy Accesories
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>As a photographer, I am always learning and always experimenting with new techniques, new poses, or new colors. I am lucky enough to have clients who trust me and my vision, and who take it in stride when I call them up the night before their session to ask them to bring a rather large "prop."
That is exactly what I did the night before sweet Kosta's newborn session. You may remember from Jenny's maternity session the beautiful nursery that she and Paul created for Kosta. It is a nursery fit for a little prince, and is adorned with crowns, elephants and soft tones. I contacted Jenny and Paul the night before and asked them to bring the elephant rocker from Kosta's nursery to the studio the next day - I had an idea.
The day of his session, Kosta was just perfect for me. I started his session with the elephant rocker. It is important to explain how we were able to capture this image. Safety is always my top priority. For any image where baby's head is lifted from the beanbag, or any image where baby is on or in a prop (such as the elephant rocker or soccer ball), there is always a hand gently placed on him to hold him safely in place. These images are composites, and Kosta was always safely held. These are poses that should only be done by a trained newborn photographer.
I love how the image turned out, and I can just picture it being displayed in Kosta's nursery. Kosta was a dream during his solo part of the session. He woke up for the family images, and had a couple of accidents! I always warn my clients that this is completely normal and to be expected during newborn sessions. I take accidents as they come, but many new parents are not expecting it! I always suggest a change of clothes for the parents, just in case! With a newborn and no diaper, you just never know when an accident will happen!
I love how Kosta's gallery turned out, and I hope that Jenny and Paul do as well! Thank you so much for making me a part of your pregnancy and new adventure into parenthood!
Kosta is so sweet! Congratulations!
Grey outfit by Tham Nguyen Photography
Wool nest by Buttercup Baby Props - I cannot say enough about these wool nests! It can be used alone, or under blankets as a posing aid for multiple poses. Hannah is a creative genius and nailed it with these nests! They perfectly nestle baby in and are just perfect! If you are a newborn photographer, go get one NOW!!
Bump blanket by ShaeKnits
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago newborn photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>leaving us memories to treasure and keep."
Varsha contacted me in November to schedule her newborn session for her first baby, due at the end of April. Varsha told me that they were going to wait to find out the gender, and she was so excited to meet her little one and to book a newborn session. As her due date was approaching, Varsha told me that their newborn session was a birthday gift for her 40th birthday! Such a wonderful and thoughtful gift for a new parent!
Varsha and Hersh welcomed a beautiful baby boy, Rushil! We rescheduled from our originally scheduled date so that Varsha and Rushil could work with a lactation consultant because Rushil was having some latching difficulties. I am always try to be flexible with newborn scheduling because nothing is predictable when it comes to brand new babies. Mastering nursing as early as possible is so important for baby and mama. Rushil's session ended up being rescheduled for Varsha's actual birthday, and it was such a great session! Rushil was a little gem, and even flashed me his adorable smile a few times! Hersh was back to work, but joined us during his lunch break so that we could get some family portraits.
Rushil's grandfather came along for the session. I love grandpas, and Rushil's was no exception. He just glowed with love, pride and happiness every time he held Rushil! Of course, I had to get images of Rushil with his grandpa and Varsha with her father and her new baby. I love how they turned out, and am sure that they are images the family will treasure forever!
I am so thrilled with how Rushil's gallery came out. I am also so excited for this new family of three!
Thank you so much Varsha and Hersh for bringing your sweet Rushil in for his newborn session! He is perfect!
Backdrop by Roses and Ruffles
Wool layer and elephant lovie by Buttercup Baby Props
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago newborn photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>"Young boys should never be sent to bed. They always wake up a day older." - J.M. Barrie
I can't believe sweet Nickolas is already one! I have known his mama, Valery, since we were in high school. I captured her engagement session and maternity session. I photographed sweet Nickolas as a newborn, and now as a one year old. I love being a part of their life, and documenting all of their milestones.
I have my clients do a little prep work before a cake smash session. After all, most babies have not yet had the sugary goodness of sweets before their birthday. It is unfamiliar, and can come as a little bit of a shock to them! Valery followed my instructions, and gave Nickolas a little taste of a cupcake the night before! Nickolas seems to have a sweet tooth because he loved it instantly. We knew that cake would be just as good!
I wanted to try and get some portraits of Nicholas before he was covered in cake, but he was not having it! He did not like the bucket, or the bowl, or the basket. But cake? He LOVED cake! He is a very serious cake lover though. Despite Valery's best attempts, we didn't get a lot of smiles. Nickolas was on a mission. A mission to eat cake. I did manage to capture a couple of giggles though, and he is an excellent cake smasher!
I cannot believe how much Nickolas has grown this year, or how fast it went. He is such a sweet boy, who is growing way too fast!
Happy Birthday Nickolas, you are so loved!
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago baby photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>Spring is beautiful, and always a welcome change from Winter. It is also unpredictable, especially for a photographer. Nicole is a busy entrepreneur along with expecting her second baby. We were able to coordinate our schedules for her maternity session, planned on April 1st. However, Mother Nature had different plans for us that day and we were rained out. We were also rained out on our rain date! By the time we were able to do Nicole's session, she was already 37 weeks pregnant.
When I schedule maternity sessions for my clients, I try not to schedule them this late in pregnancy. For starters, as you approach the 37 week mark, you run the chance of the momma-to-be going into labor before we have the session! Another reason is that a maternity session in the very last stretch of pregnancy can be hard on the momma-to-be. It becomes more difficult to stand and walk for longer periods of time as you get closer to the end of your pregnancy. I want maternity sessions to be enjoyable for my clients, so I do try to schedule them before the 37th week.
Nicole, however, was such a trooper. You would never guess that she was 37 weeks pregnant! I am so glad we were rained out the first two evenings because the lighting and sky was amazing the night we had the session! A gorgeous, warm glow poured all over Nicole and her beautiful bump. It was the perfect "accessory" with every one of the gowns, and Nicole was just stunning in every one. It was a wonderful outdoor maternity session that even included a visit (and photobomb) from some deer!
Thank you Nicole for being so great! I am just in love with the images we were able to capture of you as you awaited the arrival of your new love!
**Since the session, her handsome baby boy was already home and how happily enjoying his momma, papa and older brother's love.
Maternity gowns by Sew Trendy Accessories and Roses & Ruffles
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>Karina is a gorgeous mama to three boys now, and she has some amazing friends. Two of her good friends called me and purchased a gift certificate for Karina to use to bring her new baby boy in for a newborn session! They wanted to make sure that Karina would forever have this precious time preserved through the images. I would say that Karina has the best of friends to think of such a meaningful gift!
Karina came to the studio with just her new love, Mark. It was a wonderful, quiet session. Karina was able to sit back and relax, and just watch Mark as I posed him in all the sweet little poses! I am sure moments to sit back and relax are few and far between when you are a mama of three boys, so I am so glad Karina was able to enjoy this time. Mark was just perfect for me. He is such a handsome little man, and I was even able to capture a bit of his tiny little personality when he showed me his eyes! Even though he was awake, he was so calm. Being able to pose him in the potato sack and froggy pose while awake created the sweetest images!
I am so happy with how Mark's gallery turned out. So many beautiful images. I have to say, however, that my favorites are the images of Mark with his beautiful mama. They just make my heart so full! There is nothing like a new mama with her precious newborn.
I offer gift certificates for all occasions, or no occasion at all! If there is someone in your life that you would like to gift a session to, contact me and I will help you pick the best option! Karina, I am so glad you have the most thoughtful of friends and got to be pampered and relax for Mark's session! He is just perfect!
Bonnet by Knit in the Womb Designs
Backdrop by Roses and Ruffles
Romper and bonnet set by Tham Nguyen Photography Props
Heart and Lion stuffies by Buttercup Baby Props
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago newborn photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
- Gerard Way
Baby Sam joins a family of superheroes. His mommy and daddy are both doctors, rescuing their patients from the evil forces of allergies.
Amy and Alex are completely and totally in love with their new little superhero, Sam. I can see why because Sam was an absolute dream to work with during his session. He was perfectly sleepy, and transitioned from pose to pose with ease. I found out that Alex is a huge comic book fan, so of course I showed him my Superman outfit! It was the perfect look for Sam, and I think he looks a lot like his daddy in it!
This new family of three has so much love between them, and I was thrilled they chose me to capture it. Thank you Amy and Alex, Sam is just perfect!
Wolf bonnet and tail by Flaxy Planet
Lion set by Emma Ruth Designs
Felt layer/heart by Buttercup Baby Props
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago newborn photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>There was no shortage of laughs during Ashika and Ari's maternity session. They are a wonderfully fun couple, and their session was a great time for all of us! I first met Ashika and Ari back in March when they visited the studio before booking their maternity and newborn sessions. Ashika loved being able to see the selection of maternity gowns in person, and they both were excited looking through all of my newborn props and accessories.
Ashika and Ari knew that they wanted both outdoor and studio maternity portraits, so my hybrid session was the best choice for them. I love hybrid sessions of any kind because it gives my clients not only the best of two worlds (in this case outdoor and studio), but also a gallery with so much variety. The day of their session, I met Ashika and Ari at a nearby forest preserve. It was a beautiful and sunny day, and even semi-warm for the season we have had this year. Ari was a great assistant to me, and easily brought out Ashika's natural smile.
These two have such a beautiful love for each other. It was heartwarming to watch them together with nothing else to do besides be together in the moment. When we got back to the studio, Ashika was able to relax some because there was no more walking involved! She chose several gorgeous gowns that made her look and feel like a goddess! Ashika also had a couple requests for setups a little outside my normal workflow but I was up for the challenge! I love how they both turned out. Can you spot which images they are?
Ashika and Ari, thank you so much for letting me be a part of the beautiful life you are creating. I cannot wait to see you again with your new little sweet pea in tow!
Maternity gowns by Sew Trendy Accessories and Roses & Ruffles
Tutu by Mila Renert
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>Irina contacted looking for a last minute family session, and was pleased when I offered a hybrid lifestyle session since it can still be cold in April (little did we know!) I was so happy that I was able to make a few adjustments to my schedule to get them in. I love hybrid lifestyle sessions of any type because they incorporate the best of everything. I am able to get more traditional portraits, plus I am able to capture my clients in their own environment. Family hybrid lifestyle sessions are so much fun because we are able to capture your family doing the family activities you love best!
The weather on the day of this session was completely unpredictable. It started sunny and clear though cold (the high was for 30 degrees). As I was driving to the session, it was snowing so hard that I couldn't see more than 5 feet in front of me! Luckily, that was over quickly and we had sunny, clear skies again to get some outdoor portraits of the children and the family. Followed by a sudden temperature drop and blizzard conditions again! Throw in some more sun, hail, sun and thunderstorms, and the whole day was just strange weather wise.
Indoors, however, was toasty warm and Irina made hot cocoa for Oleg, Ryaan and Phillip! Irina and Oleg are amazing parents, and are raising some great kids. There is so much love and fun in their family, and I think their hybrid lifestyle gallery really highlights those two things.
We all had so much fun during the Boyko's session. Hot cocoa, chess, billiards, and jumping on the beds! Can it get any better than that? Thank you for inviting me into your home. I hope you love your gallery as much as I do!
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago family photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>inner security and strong character." - Jane Seymour
Gabriela radiates confidence, grace and beauty. Her mother, Megan, gifted Gabriela with her maternity and newborn sessions so that all the beauty of this time in her life could be captured. I cannot think of a more thoughtful, and wonderful, gift. It is obvious who Gabriela gets her inner and outer beauty from - her mother. Megan came to Gabriela's maternity session and was such an amazing source of support and encouragement for Gabriela. Megan is in absolute awe at the sight of her beautiful daughter as she awaits the arrival of her own daughter. Gabriela is a natural in front of the camera, and is poised with confidence and grace.
Of course, when it is just three women in the studio, we had to have some fun picking and changing gowns for Gabriela. She was just stunning in every gown she put on. Gabriela's smile is a perfect reflection of her sweet nature. She is so in love with and excited to meet her precious baby girl. I am also excited, and cannot wait till I see them again for their newborn session!
Maternity gowns by Sew Trendy Gowns, Gowns by Mila, and Roses and Ruffles
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>- Unknown
Melody and Maya came to visit me at my Wheeling studio for their 6 Month Milestone session. Although these two baby girls couldn't look and be more different, they are twins! Melody has dark hair and beautiful brown eyes. Maya is blond with piercing blue eyes. Melody cannot go more than a moment without flashing her big, bright smile. Maya is more reserved and captivates your with her stare.
Despite only being a quick 45 minute session, we were able to get through so many different setups and outfits. The girls were wonderful to work with and were so much fun. They both did an amazing job for their individual images. Melody let her big personality shine with her contagious smile. Maya pulls her audience in with her blue eyes looking into your soul.
Together, the girls were even better. Melody's smile somehow gets bigger and brighter when it is for her sister. The two of them inched in close to one another, most comfortable in each other's presence. Together, the two of them will take on the world.
I could not be happier with the results of this 6 Month Milestone session. Melody and Maya are beyond perfect, and their gallery is gorgeous.
This is how we knew that the session had come to an end :)
Bunny bonnets by Flaxy Planet
Gold onesie by Simply Sassafrass
Wool layers by Buttercup Baby Props
Lamb bonnets by The Peppered Pear
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL baby photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>they are felt with the heart." - The Little Prince, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
When I first discussed her maternity session with Jenny, she knew what she wanted. She wanted a lifestyle session in her beautiful home. She also wanted the entire session to be in my collection of maternity gowns. In particular, she was set on my beautiful peacock blue gown, a gown I typically only use outdoors as if it is blowing in the wind. Our Hybrid Lifestyle Maternity Session was the perfect option for Jenny and Paul's session.
When preparing for a lifestyle maternity session, I always ask my clients to send me pictures of their home. This allows me to prepare not only in terms of space but picking the maternity gowns that will best match the style of their home. When I saw the pictures of Jenny and Paul's grand entrance to their home, I knew that I had to opportunity to create something breathtaking. I also knew that Jenny's wish to use the peacock blue gown would come true!
The results are stunning. Jenny was a natural in front of the camera. She was just gorgeous in the peacock blue maternity gown. Both of our visions were made a reality as she stood on her staircase with the gown cascading down. Paul was a little less comfortable in front of the camera, but there is no denying his love for Jenny and their new little love, Kosta, who will be here before they know it!
Kosta's nursery is equally grand. His nursery is a regal gray and adorned with elephants and a crown fit for a little prince. It was a gorgeous backdrop for images of Jenny as she waits for her little prince. I am so happy with Jenny and Paul's hybrid lifestyle maternity gallery, and I cannot wait to meet baby Kosta!
Maternity gowns by Sew Trendy Accessories
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago maternity photographer and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>- Author Unknown
Beautiful baby Emma recently came to visit me at the studio for a mini milestone session as one of my model. Emma is a natural in front of the camera, even at a fresh 6 months old. In less than half an hour, I was able to capture the most breathtaking and captivating images of this little beauty. Perhaps even more amazing, we were able to get through 3 outfits and 3 bonnet sets in that short time. With some babies, it can take nearly that long to change one outfit!
Emma stole my heart in the short time I was with her. We didn't get many smiles, but the connection she made with the camera produced images that speak to the soul.
Milestone sessions are meant to capture your baby at the various stages of the first year. They are scheduled based on abilities more than age. These sessions are generally quicker sessions because babies only tolerate so much. The setups are simple, keeping the focus on your baby. The results are pure, gorgeous images of your little one.
It is no doubt that Emma is loved beyond measure. Her soul shines through her eyes, and it is beautiful. Thank you for bringing Emma in to see me! I hope you love the images as much as I do.
I am also so excited to debut my new logo, created by my friend, Yana Leytman! Yana is a talented graphic designer, and I can't wait to start working on my full re-brand. Stay tuned!
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL newborn photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
- John C. Maxwell
I always tell expecting parents that on the day of their newborn session, it is their baby that rules the show. This tiny, little new person is in charge of the entire session and all of the adults present that day.
Every newborn and their session are different. No two sessions are the same. Their little personalities are emerging even at less than 2 weeks old. I think Pranav is destined to be a leader, because boy did he make sure the session went his way! When he wanted to be awake, he made it known that he would not be falling asleep. Pranav may not be able to talk yet but he told me everything he needed to with his facial expressions. I loved all of his little faces!
Despite some protest from Pranav, we were able to get so many great setups and poses. He has the most amazing head of hair ever, and already has his own style! I was also able to get some very special images of Pranav with his aunt. Ramya's sister flew in from India to stay with the new family of three for a couple of months as they transition into their new routine. I love how the image of the sisters with Pranav came out. Pranav is undeniably one very loved baby!
Congratulations Ramya and Rahul! Pranav is perfect. I can't wait to see all of his accomplishments as he grows!
Bear bonnet by The Peppered Pear
Layering blankets by Buttercup Baby Props
Blue bonnet by Knit in the Womb Design
Green posing fabric by Roses and Ruffles
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago IL newborn photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
- Todd Beta
Tere and Eliud have done it again. They have brought another perfect baby into their family. I had the pleasure of meeting this couple when they were expecting their first child, Joaquin. You can see the images from their first maternity session here. We had a second, equally wonderful, maternity session as Tere, Eliud and Joaquin waited on the newest member of the family to arrive. Joaquin was the sweetest thing during his momma's maternity session! It always so great to spend time with a family before a new baby arrives.
Estefania is just beautiful. She has the most amazing full head of hair, perfectly round and rosy cheeks. She was also a photographer's dream because she was just as sleepy as could be. It can be deceiving from the images newborn photographers post, leaving everyone to think that the babies sleep through their sessions, calm and quiet. On the contrary, not every newborn actually sleeps through their session. Estefania, however, was a dream and slept through her entire session! She allowed me to get through so many poses and setups, and she barely stirred.
Big brother Joaquin was not particularly interested in his new baby sister or family photos, this is not uncommon with toddlers. Joaquin had other ideas of what he wanted to do, including playing the piano in the other room. Perhaps that is why his baby sister slept so well! Someday in the near future, I know he will realize that he has a built in best friend in Estefania. They will have so much fun together growing and exploring!
A fun fact about Estefania's session is that she now holds the record for the most "accidents" during a session! As a newborn photographer, accidents are an occupational hazard. Whether they happen on your backdrops, props or on you, they are bound (and expected) to happen when you have sleepy, diaper-less babes. :-P
Thank you Tere and Eliud for once again choosing me to capture your life's precious moments.
Estefania is so sweet, and I loved my snuggle time with her.
Congratulations to the whole family!
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
I had the pleasure of meeting a wonderful family of three - Edita, Jason and baby Julian. Julian is 9 months old, and full of personality. The 6 to 9 month age range is such a fun age to photograph. The babies are full of smiles, laughs and usually cannot run away from me (usually being the keyword)! It is the best of all worlds.
Julian is all of those things! He is also a momma's boy! I did have to ask Edita to hide a few times because Julian loves snuggling her. Once she did, he was all smiles and laughs for me! His little face is absolutely adorable! Edita must want to kiss and squeeze it all day long!
Edita and Jason, thank you so much for bringing Julian in to my studio. He is the sweetest bundle of joy and happiness, and really is as handsome as could be.
Amazing airplane made by my husband and father
Bonnets by Knit in the Womb Design
Wool layering blankets by Buttercup Baby Props
Alina Renert Photography is a Chicago baby photographer, and is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL baby photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>-Johnny Depp
I was so excited to meet baby Ari, and for so many reasons. First and foremost, I am so happy for Zhenya and Sasha and the arrival of their baby boy. I've known both of them for a long time, and I don't know many couples with more love to share than these two. Ari is one lucky little guy to have them as his parents. I was also excited because I loved how Zhenya and Sasha's lifestyle maternity session had turned out. It is one of my favorite lifestyle galleries because it highlights their comfort and love with one another. Of course, we can not forget the regal Max. His presence and love for his family is apparent.
I knew that baby Ari's newborn session would be a great extension to the maternity session (see their maternity blog HERE)so we incorporated an element of lifestyle to this session as well. This is something new I'm offering for my newborn clients. It is the best of both worlds because I am able to capture more traditional, posed newborn images as well as the more relaxed, lifestyle moments in the comfort of your home. Lifestyle sessions capture the pure essence of the first days with your new baby. We all feel more comfortable in our own home and environment, leaving all the focus of the love and awe for your newborn. I bring along a select few props that are needed to create a studio look in your home. The end result is a large variety of images in your gallery to choose from.
Zhenya and Sasha's bright and airy home was the perfect backdrop to capture some beautiful memories during their first days as parents. Max was on guard over his family, and you get the sense that his very proud of his new status of big brother. Max truly loves those around him, but none more than his people - Zhenya , Sasha and, now, Ari.
The studio style images are just gorgeous. Ari is just simply perfect. Perfect skin, perfect lips, and perfectly sleepy. I especially love the family images because Ari is happiest snuggled up close and getting kisses. You can feel the love the three of them have for one another, and there is nothing better than that.
Zenia and Sasha, I am so incredibly happy for you. Ari is the perfect addition to the family. Thank you for letting me get some snuggles in with him (and Max)!
Vendors used in this session:
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago IL newborn photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
They feel safer with each other than with their peers."
-Jeanne Phillips
I so enjoy working with not just Julia of Golden Charm Photography, but also with our precious little twin models. What you often hear about twins is true. The special bond they have can be felt, even when they are fresh newborns. It is beautiful to see in person, and even more amazing to witness how our posing of the two babies comes together so naturally. They seek comfort in the closeness of each other, and almost become one.
Madeline and Eugene already have very distinct personalities. Eugene is the laid back one, and happily slept the entire session. Madeline is the bigger of the two, and definitely the feisty one! She made sure we knew who was in charge, but ultimately she let us do our job. Madeline and Eugene are a perfect pair.
Julia and I work so well together because we both love working with newborns, and strive to get beautiful captures. We are both so pleased with Madeline and Eugene's gallery. The individual images of each little one are so sweet, and the images of them together really capture their bond. Perhaps my favorite images in this gallery, though, are the parent poses.
Stephanie is just absolutely gorgeous and glowing as she holds her twin newborns in her arms. And when Jonas came in for the kiss, I about melted. It was also incredible to see a new father of not one but two newborns so effortlessly and comfortably hold both of his babies in his arms. It's like he has been holding two newborns at the same time all his life! The image is gorgeous, and really captures the newness of Madeline and Eugene.
Stephanie and Jonas, thank you do much for bringing your double bundle of joy in for us. They are absolutely perfect.
The vendors used in this session include: Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
I first met this sweet couple when I photographed their engagement party. It was a fantastic party, and the love Andis and Edisa share could be felt by everyone at their party or anyone who's ever met the two. Their love for each other has only grown since I last saw them, and soon their family will grow by one. Edisa was SO excited for her maternity session, particularly for outdoor winter maternity images. As a concerned husband and soon to be father, Andis was a little worried about the cold outside but there was no stopping the determined Edisa. Luckily, for all of us, it was not one of the bitter cold days we have had this recently this Chicago winter. The images are just amazing, and I am so glad we all decided to go for it!
Of course we also had some fun in the studio. Edisa is simply glowing, and her excitement to meet her new love cannot be contained. Each gown was more stunning than the next on Edisa, and she truly made my job easy.
I am so thankful to have clients who share all of their life's sweetest jots with me. Andis and Edisa, I cannot wait to meet your little one!
Maternity gowns by Sew Trendy Accessories and Ruffles and Roses. The eggplant gown was made by my very talented mom!
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>- Willa Cather
I met Anna and Daniel when they came to my Wheeling in-home studio for their maternity session. Anna contacted me early in her pregnancy to book her session, beyond excited about her first baby. Fast forward to their maternity session, and Anna and Daniel are overflowing with excitement as the time to meet their little one approaches.
Being in front of the camera can be intimidating, especially when you are eight months pregnant, so I usually start my maternity sessions with both mom and dad together. Anna and Daniel are one of the sweetest couples, and had no problem loving each other, and Anna's perfect baby belly, for the camera. When it came time for Daniel to take a seat so we could focus on Anna, he just sat and admired his beautiful wife. Anna was just stunning in all of the different maternity gowns, and Daniel seemed to loved each one more than the previous.
Even sweeter is how much of a support Daniel was for Anna from behind the scenes. If Anna would start to feel uncomfortable and stiffen her body, Daniel would make little faces at her that would instantly relax her and bring out her natural smile. Without a single word, Daniel could show Anna all his love.
Anna and Daniel are dream clients, and put their trust in me during their session. I love having clients who not only trust me, but feel comfortable with me and allow me to capture the most intimate chapters of life. Anna and Daniel, thank you for trusting me to capture your love for each other and the greatest miracle that will soon be in your arms.
Maternity gowns by Sew Trendy Accessories
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>Recently, my friend Julia of Golden Charm Photography and I put out a model call for newborn twins. Right away, we got a response from Alana who just recently had twin boys. We were able to work out our schedules and get Mateo and Christian into the studio the very next week. These two boys were just perfect, squishy little angels for us. At about a month old, Mateo and Christian were a little bit older than when we typically like to photograph newborns so they were a little more sensitive to touch and sounds but we were still able to get some variety of setups and poses.
The best part about photographing twins is that you get twice the snuggles. Julia and I loved being able to cuddle these two handsome babes. They were so sweet nuzzled together in the potato sack pose! I think that Mateo and Christian quite possibly have the best cheeks ever, and this particular pose really highlighted them! This pose is also the perfect example of why the hands of two trained, professional photographers is a must when working with newborns/multiples. Together, Julia and I were able to safely get this pose, and I just love how it turned out!
Alana, thank you for bringing your handsome boys in for a session, and congratulations on your double bundle of love!
Julia and I are still looking for more twins as a part of our model call! If you or someone you know has just had or is expecting twins in the near future, please contact us.
Wraps by Dolly Priss
Bonnets by Knit in the Womb Designs
Driftwood bowl by Mr. & Mrs. and Co.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
Tanya, Dima and big brother Alex came to see me at my studio for Tanya's maternity session while they awaited the arrival of a precious baby girl. Tanya was absolutely glowing with love and excitement for her future daughter. Alex is going to be a wonderful big brother. It can sometimes be difficult with older siblings, especially boys, to feel comfortable enough in front of the camera to love and kiss mama's belly, but not for Alex. He is so loving and tender with his mama and her belly, and I know he will be the same with his baby sister. All while Dima is already very protective of his baby girl. She is already such a lucky lady to have her daddy and big brother looking out for her.
Once we were finished with the family portion of the session, Dima and Alex went on their own adventure so that Tanya and I could have some fun. By fun, of course I mean dressing up in beautiful maternity gowns! I have built up a wonderful collection of maternity gowns that flatter every beautiful belly. More importantly, though, is that I have yet to meet a mama that hasn't felt beautiful when she put on a gorgeous, flowing gown. And that inner beauty, and confidence, always shines through in the images. Tanya, of course, was no exception. She was stunning in every color, and the gowns highlighted her perfect bump.
To capture the miracle and wonder of pregnancy is one of the many joys of being a maternity photographer. I am so thankful that my clients trust me to be a part of this miracle. Tanya and Dima, I am so happy for you as you welcome the baby girl that is going to make your family complete. Thank you for allowing me to capture the wonder and excitement in your last days as a family of three.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
"Winter, a lingering season, is a time to gather golden moments,
embark upon a sentimental journey, and enjoy every idle hour." - John Boswell
My husband recently received a call from an old friend, Michael, who had heard that I was a maternity & newborn photographer. Michael was in search of a photographer as he and his wife are expecting their first little one very soon. Luckily, I was able to get them in right away for a maternity session. It was so nice to meet one of my husband's friends who knew him before I did, and to get to know his wife, Natasha.
Natasha is a natural in front of the camera. Her sweet nature, and all around beauty is so easily captured. We were able to fit in several wardrobe changes, and Natasha was stunning in every one of the maternity gowns she chose. Michael is absolutely smitten with his beautiful wife. Like many soon-to-be fathers, Michael was a little shy in front of the camera but there was no avoiding capturing his love for his wife and their baby. One of the many joys of this job is witnessing and capturing the tenderness of a man with the mother of his baby.
We also decided to take advantage of the freshly fallen snow despite it being very COLD!! We did not last long out in the elements, but we were able to capture some gorgeous winter wonderland images. The snow, ice and Natasha just sparkled in the perfect light! I am so glad we braved it, even if just for a few minutes!
Michael and Natasha, I know this pregnancy has been filled with golden moments as you await the arrival of your baby and embark on the greatest journey of all. Thank you for choosing me to be a part of your journey!
Maternity dresses by Sew Trendy Accessories
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a Chicago maternity photographer? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I also service surrounding areas, including, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and other surrounding Chicago suburbs. To book your session, use this form.
]]>
We made a wish - two came true.
I absolutely adore this family! I have had the privilege of photographing Brigita, Yuri, and their sweet daughter, Chloe, several times over the past couple of year. Our first session together was to celebrate Chloe’s second birthday and just a few months ago we did another family session after Chloe turned four.
I was so excited when Brigita told me she was expecting again. When we originally spoke, she had mentioned how much she wanted to have her maternity photos taken in gorgeous gowns and I am so thrilled I was able to help bring that dream come to life. We photographed her beautiful maternity photos both in and out of the studio. Brigita is such a natural in front of the camera! We also photographed a few more family moments since Chloe was sick on the day of her four-year-old session.
Brigita and Yuri, wishing you all the best as your family grows!
As always, thank you for choosing me to document your precious memories.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a newborn photographer in the Chicago area? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL and in surrounding areas including: Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
"Ill love you forever,
I'll like you for always,
As long as I'm living,
my baby you'll be.
Just look how precious this in-home maternity session is! This was a very special maternity session for me to photograph since I have known Yevgenia since Jr. High throughout High School and I met her husband, Alex, when we all traveled together to Israel on Birthright. They had only been dating for a few years when we went on the trip, but now they have been together for roughly 12 years now and are expecting their first baby!
During the session we were accompanied by their first “fur” born, Max, a one-year-old Doberman pup. Max definitely stole the show with his cuteness and we had fun capturing a sweet family portrait with the three of them snuggled together. He is going to be the best big fur-brother.
Yevgenia and Alex’s entire home is beautifully decorated and furnished, but I just absolutely fell in love with their nursery. The nursery is so elegant, classic, and yet carries a touch of simplicity.
This session was so much fun—we laughed the entire time. Yevgenia has an amazing quality to keep smiling and go with the flow. Even though she and Alex have been together for such a long time, their love is so fresh, undeniable, and beyond endearing. The way Alex touches Yevgenia’s belly and looks into her eyes with so much love is heartwarming. I cannot wait to meet their sweet baby soon!
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy, a hand picked community of elite businesses nationwide. She is also a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Women.
Are you looking for a newborn photographer in the Chicago area? I would love to work with you! I offer a fun and unique experience in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL and in surrounding areas including: Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Vernon Hills, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Glenview, Des Plaines, and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
for they are little for only a little while"
Chloe returned for her 4th birthday portrait and family pictures!! She's such a sweetheart and I adore her family. She wasn't feeling all to well for her session but none the less was such a trooper and adorable as ever. She has so much personality and spunk and loves mama snuggles and daddy's fun games.
We were hoping to take some family pictures outside in the snow, luckily it was snowing on the day of the session but it was more of a blizzard than simple pretty flurries. The snow was coming down so hard in Chicago that you couldn't really see more than 10 feet in front of you clearly.
We had mom's maternity session planned for the following month so we decided that we'd take some family pictures outside at that session to make up for the family ones not being able to be outdoor.
As always, I love working with this family and thank them for using me yet again to create more family moments. Can't wait to see them for their maternity next month!
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a newborn photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Buffalo Grove IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
]]>This sweetie visited me in the studio for her puppy newborn pictures in mid November. She was full of kisses, snuggles and melted my heart!
Puppy photographer isn't something I specialize in or do too frequently, but every now and then it's a nice change of pace for a new challenge.
What we learn with pleasure - we never forget. ~Alfred Mercier
I’m beyond blessed to have met and collaborated with so many wonderful photographers this year. Most recently I had the pleasure of working with Kayla (of Little Lashes Photography), a phenomenal, highly sought-after newborn photographer based in California.
Kayla and I met through mutual photography friends and have been in contact for quite some time now, but never had the pleasure of meeting in person. When I brought up the idea of visiting Chicago she was thrilled to visit, I realized this was a fantastic chance for us to get to know each other better, but also would give me an opportunity to learn and work alongside such a talented photographer. Prior to her arrival, we sent out a model call for newborns ranging from five days to 18 days old - and the four little models that came in that weekend were simply, perfect.
Kayla helped to arrange my new studio space for a better workflow, explained how to have better time management by walking me through her methods of preparing for a session, and gave me wonderful pointers on working with newborns who are over the 14 day old mark - which we try to hit with newborn sessions. There are various poses that we newborn photographers have in our workflow for sessions ie: froggy, taco, sideline and etc. Kayla helped by demonstrating how to work through a fussier little one and to modify for each individual newborns flexibility.
Working with Kayla and our little models was an absolute blast! In 2016, Kayla is starting mentoring sessions for photographers in the California area, as well as the continental U.S. Reach out and inquire about her services at Facebook.com/LittleLashesPhotography - I promise you won’t regret it!
Vendors and special props used during the session:
Thank you
Dolly Priss (Wraps)
Mr. & Mrs. Co (Props)
Buttercup Baby Props (Headbands/layering felt)
Roses & Ruffles (Backdrop fabric)
Gracee Collection (Headbands)
Rock N Wool (Wolf Bonnet)
Knit from the Womb Design (Bunny Bonnet)
The Peppered Pear (Lamb Bonnet)
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a newborn photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Buffalo Grove IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
Meet Mia
Meet Myles
Meet Mia
Meet Liam
(noun)
a little bit of heaven
sent down to earth
I was sooo happy to finally meet Carlos Jr. his arrival was a bit delayed and very much awaited. His mama was originally due on Oct. 30th but didn't have him until mid November! Due to mama getting sick we had to reschedule his appointment from end of November to early December making him much older than we had planned. I had the pleasure of meeting Michelle and Carlos earlier this summer at their maternity session and couldn't wait to meet their little man.
Carlos Jr. made me work for it! Showing me the cutest little facial expressions and giving me perfectly timed smiles and eye contact. Daddy's an engineer for Amtrak and I happened to have a large train laying around not being used :P which happened to be the perfect prop for Carlos Jr's session!
Thank you for choosing me for such a special time for your family.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a newborn photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Buffalo Grove IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
When I first spoke to David and Jenna I could hear their excitement and love as they were expecting little Brandon to make his arrival. As our session approached we were in contact and their love was overflowing.
As the session started, he preferred to be perfectly awake as mama and papa held him in their arms. Flashing us the cutest little grin as his cheeks were kissed. It's not hard to tell how incredibly smitten Jenna and David are with Brandon, but not only so but with one another. There is nothing sweeter for me to see than when I'm working with a newborn how parents interact with one another. Jenna and David's love for one another is one of a kind, as they sat cuddled up to one another sharing a gentle kiss every now and then as they lovingly looked at their son simply melted my heart and stayed with me. I truly hope that as the days and years pass you two only fall deeper and deeper in love with one another!!
Here are a few words that David and Jenna shared with me about their session and their love story:
Brandon was born on November 24th at 7:36 pm weighing in at 6lbs, 14oz and 19.75 in. long!!
How did you meet?
We met at Holmes Jr High in Wheeling, IL, 1992. Jenna was the tall beautiful blue eyed blonde that David immediately was infatuated with. Although he had no chance in ever dating her, we became friends and stayed friends even after she went to Buffalo Grove High School, and he went to Wheeling High School. We lost touch after going to the Sophomore year Homecoming dance in 1995 together. Fourteen years later we randomly reconnected at the gym, went to dinner, and quickly realized we found what we each had been looking for.
What's the first thing that ran through your mind when you both found out you were pregnant?
Jenna – I thought I was dreaming.
David – I wanted to tell everyone. We were finally pregnant! I’m was so happy for my wife, who had wished and hoped and dreamt of that moment for so long.
What was the first thing you thought when you saw your baby for the first time?
Jenna – That’s our little miracle!
David – Our baby is here!
Did you want to know the gender of your little one before birth? Why?
Did you have a gender reveal party?
We did not want to know the gender and didn’t find out until our little one joined us. There are so few true amazing surprises in life, we wanted this to be one.
What is your pregnancy story?
It’s truly too long to write it all out, but it took us a long time to become pregnant after losing our first pregnancy. It was a long road after, but we kept each other strong, we never stopped dreaming and hoping, and when we finally were pregnant, we cherished every single second.
What was your favorite part about our session together?
We loved the variety of props and being able to see the sneak peeks on the camera.
How did you prepare the baby for our photo shoot?
We had a decent drive out from the city so the baby was comfy in the car seat and mommy nursed him to try and get him ready.
How was your experience having your newborn photographed? Were you nervous or worried before? How did it turn out?
We weren’t nervous, but we were hoping that Brandon would cooperate. We think that the pictures turned out great and enjoy sharing them with our friends.
What would be your advice to someone getting newborn photographs taken?
We think babies definitely feed off of parents energy and emotions, so go in happy, calm, and hope for the best. Make sure the baby is warm and well fed, and trust your photographer. Also, if there are certain personal props you really want to use, let the photographer know.
What kinds of things did you worry about before and during the session?
Not many worries aside from whether or not the baby would be comfy, and if the baby was warm enough.
What was your favorite part of the session and why?
When we got to hold and kiss our baby during the pictures.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a newborn photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Buffalo Grove IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
that it cannot leave
an imprint in this world"
Oh, sweet Owen - you were a complete joy!! Leah and Charles brought little Owen in and I was smitten beyond words. Perfect little cheeks, tiny little fingers and toes. Owen happened to be my very first little newborn in my new studio in Wheeling, IL. We had just moved into our new home the previous night and it's been a whirlwind ever since.
Owen's mama and papa are both doctors and we had intended on doing a special setup for him. The plan was to use their stethoscope and a little plushy heart by Buttercup Baby Props. We ended up just using the little plush heart though.
When mom and dad entered my prop room and took a moment to look through some photos and album, the dad noticed the little desk setup that I have and requested that Owen have it as well. I'm so happy to say that little Owen was the quickest in and out of that particular setup which does tend to take a little longer for little ones to settle into. He was a champ and rocked it - I adore how it turned out too!
The session went so smoothly with no hiccups and the gallery is absolutely one of my favorites - again, thank you for choosing me for your special family moments.
**Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a newborn photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Buffalo Grove IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
50% Mommy
50% Daddy and a
100% Perfection!
I was so excited to meet little Alexander! I've come to love three month milestone sessions and was even more excited for a boy! He was sooo adorable with this big blue eyes and round chubby cheeks I wanted to keep him :) With my new studio, I have parents to walk into my large stocked prop room and pick out extra props for their sessions (on top of what I already have planned from speaking to them earlier).
Mom and dad decided on the airplane prop and aviator hat/scarf and I adore how it came out. Little Alexander wasn't a huge fan of tummy time so as always, the little one runs the show so we kept him on his back and got some adorable smiles in the process.
He truly was the sweetest little guy and I loved capturing his smiles! Thank you for choosing me for his milestone and hope to see you again soon!
**Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a baby milestone photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Buffalo Grove IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
You can live as if
Nothing is a miracle;
You can live as if
EVERYTHING is a miracle" - Albert Einstein
I was honored to be a part of Tere and Eliud's miracle when they were expecting little Joaquin and equally as excited when Tere reached out to let me know they were expecting yet another miracle baby! See their last maternity session here.
As the session was approaching Tere reached out to me worried her belly wasn't going to be big enough for their maternity photo shoot and I reminded her that her belly wasn't that big with her first pregnancy either! The day was gorgeous! The sun shining and the weather warm for November in Chicago.
Joaquin was a little handsome guy who stole my heart! So well behaved, quite and full of smiles - this is actually very rare for his age to be so well behaved and calm as his mama took pictures.
Tere simply glowed with beauty, love and happiness. I couldn't be more happy for her and Eliud as they are about to become parents again for the second time.
I adore how the gallery turned out and hope they do too!
Thank you for choosing me again for your special family milestones.
**Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a maternity photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Buffalo Grove IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
Looking for a family photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Buffalo Grove IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
What can I say, Laura is an absolute gem!! Smiles, giggles, and I mean the full belly giggles that make me put my camera down and enjoy laughing with her! She was a gem and did superb for her session! We managed to do 5 different outfits and 7 different setups! Whoa!!
Not much to my surprise, she wasn't too keen on the cake smashing though :P Most little ones aren't and I'm prepped for it, which is why I hope to be offering a substitute type of a session for those kiddos!!
I adore Laura's gallery and hoping to see her along with mama and papa again soon!! Thank you for trusting me with all your families special moments!
**Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a milestone baby photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Buffalo Grove IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
Side by side comparison with the same prop :)
When Kaili contacted me for Claire's three month milestone pictures she mentioned something about 100 days old. I wasn't sure what it meant, but recently had another family who also had a 100 day old milestone session for their baby girl. When Claire and her family arrived I had to inquire why 100 days, not newborn or not six months. I was given the explanation but here it is as taken from Wikipedia, "Baek-il is celebrated on the 100th day after a child’s birth. Long ago in Korea, childhood diseases were common and the survival rate for children was very low. To protect their children, parents refrained from taking the baby outdoors until the 100th day after his or her birth. It is not until baek-il that the baby was introduced to neighbors, friends and relatives. One of the baek-il’s special events is the parents providing rice cakes, called baekseolgi, to at least 100 people. They believe this event helps to protect the child’s life. They also pray for the child’s continued good health". I find it so interesting that every culture and religion has so many of it's own customs and traditions going back to long ago when they made perfect sense in their time frame.
Claire's session was not without hiccups, I didn't know but the scheduled time had been her nap time. Not something I generally recommend as they tend to be cranky, over tired and over all hysterical. Needless to say, Claire wasn't having it after the first 10 minutes or so. We were afraid that we'd have to call it a bust and reschedule during another time if her parents didn't have enough images to choose for their final gallery, but in the end...a little classical music, mommy/daddy snuggles and the oh so amazing Baby Shusher did their trick in calming her down and even giving us some adorable smiles and tongue captures.
I adore this milestone age, they are so unpredictable (like any age group really) but they are just starting to express themselves and their facial expressions are to die for!!
Thank you for choosing me for your very special milestone session, I hope to see you again for future ones.
**Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a milestone baby photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Buffalo Grove IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
Finally getting around to blogging this fun late fall session with this cutie!! Our original scheduled date for the session was supposed to be in November but we were afraid that the leaves wouldn't be as vibrant or the weather wouldn't be as warm so we moved the session to late October for a during the week session. I love being able to take clients during the week now! The day was nothing short of stunning, the weather was sooo warm, Chicago definitely lucked out with an Indian Summer this fall. The leaves were burning with red and orange as the sun shined on them.
Little Christina is so beautiful, her piercing blue eyes, rosy cheeks and her little pout was too much for me to handle. She was full of smiles and laughs - I can without a doubt say she loves her apples :D
I love sessions that you never know how they'll go since the age is so unpredictable and end up being so smooth and easy! Christina was a doll and I hope to get to see and work with her family again.
Thank you for choosing me for your special family moments.
**Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a family photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Buffalo Grove IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
The two were set up in the old fashioned way of something like a matchmaker. They have set the date to April of 2016 with many details still needing finalizing but Anya's words of advice to future brides planning a wedding, "Relax and don't think about it too much". I couldn't agree more on this, planning a wedding yes can be stressful and not the easiest at time. Don't forget to remember why you're getting married in the first place, two people fell in love and what to build a life together. The small details of the hall, flowers or seating chart are just that...the details. They aren't what make up your marriage or what breaks it if the wedding isn't the perfect vision you've had since you were a little girl.
Thank you for choosing me for this special new chapter in your lives, wishing you two endless amounts of happiness, love, passion and lots of little baby feet running around the house :)
**Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a engagement photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Wheeling, IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Buffalo Grove IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
when two people fall in LOVE"
Sweetest family ever!! I was lucky enough to meet Ryan, his fiance Katie and their sweet and adorable Violet last month. She instantly stole my heart and was by far one of the easiest little ones I've had the pleasure of working with. The day was gorgeous, the light pure perfection and the moments some of my favorites! Thankfully Chicago went easy on us photographers this Fall and gave us so many beautiful sunny/warm days for shooting, the day of this session was no exception!
Violet is so adorable! Her piercing blue eyes, rosy cheeks and she loved to stick out her tongue and show me goofy faces. Overall the session was so much fun and I love how the gallery turned out. Thank you for choosing to work with me for your family's special memories.
**Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a family photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove, IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
Thank you for choosing to work with Alina Renert Photography Chicago's Family Photographer
]]>We laugh.
We love.
We care.
We are family"
I was anxiously anticipating this family session, lately, I've been capturing families with little ones and I was excited to capture an older five-year-old too. With the ability to take great direction, ear to ear grins and the freedom to run around and be a kid is amazing! The day of the session happened to be a rare 70+ degree day in mid-October in Chicago - so it was a fun treat to have the warmth of the sun, the beautiful shimmering colors of the changing leaves peeking through.
Fall is an absolutely stunning time of year and there's a reason it is the most requested time of year for family portraits. Chicago is never short of stunning scenery during any season, but I really feel it comes alive in the fall, which may seem odd.
The entire session was spent laughing, running around, and having a great time. Thank you very much for choosing me for your precious family moments!
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a family photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove, IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
]]>when every leaf is a flower"
We live in a very small world. I learned this when Penni reached out to me and we soon came to realize that we used to be neighbors. Her parents still live only a few doors down from me. Very small world!! I was very excited to capture their fall family photo's and we decided that they'd include their very hyper and adorable pup, Pipsqueak, at this session. Usually the kids are the boss and run the show but not this time. Little Paul was nothing short of a dream baby, looking right at the camera, smiling and totally calm as a cucumber! Pipsqueak on the other hand had a blast attempting to rip limbs off and forgetting to sit next to her mama or papa.
None the less, the light was stunning, the weather was perfectly warm for a mid October Chicago day and we had a blast. Fall is such an amazing time for portraits. The leaves are changing, it's not longer hot and humid, the light is nothing short of amazing.
I'm so in love how this session turned out - the colors and the happy memories made! Thank you for choosing me for your family.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a milestone or family photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove, IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
]]>
You snuggled right into my heart"
I loved meeting and working with Claire and her family! How adorable and squishy is she?!? Her stunning brown eyes, her perfectly round cheeks, her HAIR, and rolls for days! What's not to love and adore?
Our session flowed smoothly and we were able to get through all the outfit changes, setups, along with siblings and parents shots. Even grabbed a big family portrait with grandma!
Big brother was such a sweetheart, super helpful, full of smiles and ready for his closeup! I love how this session turned and and really enjoying this milestone age group. The three-fourth month milestone are so much fun, little ones are super expressive, they are doing much better at tummy time, explore their toes and hands. Everything is so fun and new to them.
Thank you for choosing me for your special family moments.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a baby milestone or family photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
]]>Another year and another amazing session with my favorite superhero family. I'm speechless as to how much this amazing family has been through the last three years and yet is so positive, strong, fun and lighthearted. In a span of a year I've not done this family's photo's four times and I enjoy each session more than the last. Here's is recap of their family session from last year. Bennett has an amazing spirit about him, this carefree fun attitude to just have fun and explore the world. Jonah now recently turned three wasn't too interested in having his photos taken, unless that is he was up high on a tree. Boys will be boys they say, and I always say during sessions the kids are the boss and they run the show for the session.
This was the first session where I collaborated with AgencyPPC to do some lifestyle video work of the behind the scenes of a session. The video turned out amazing and can be viewed here. Bennett also known as Superboy for his Superman wearing cape days of last year. So this year we added a Superman dad, Superwoman mom and Superboy baby brother for his picture collection. I had seen a post from Enna a few weeks before our scheduled session of both Bennett and Jonah holding hands and wearing their capes. So I asked if mom and dad would also be willing to put on some capes and have some fun with their kiddos. Not much to my surprise the family was into it.
When everyone donned their capes, only Jonah was apprehensive about it, none the less we were able to capture fun and unique images for the family. I'm beyond thrilled at the outcome of yet another great gallery for my favorite superhero family.
I'm so grateful that I have the pleasure of not only knowing this family but for the opportunity to see their boys grow, develop and lead healthy and happy lives.
Thank you for letting me be a part of your family's cherished memories.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a family portrait photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
]]>When Joanna contacted me for her special day I was excited, I love doing engagement sessions and only book a limited amount per year. She explained to me that they would have a courthouse wedding and wanted portraits afterwards as husband and wife.
Everything about the day was perfect and beautiful. Visilii at first wasn't nervous to see his bride for the first look and was calm. As Joanna arrived, we had discussed I would capture their first look in your bridal wear, hair and makeup. She looked absolutely radiant and glowing with happiness! As Visilii turned around to look at his stunning bride, he wasn't able to hold is happiness, love and adoration even if he tried.
The ceremony may have moved quickly, but as Joanna and Visilii stood holding hands in front of family and friends they looked smitten with one another with ear to ear grins for the future.
We arrived at our beautiful nature location for bride and groom portraits and Joanna's two handsome sons joined us for a few family portraits as well. They sure do love their mama!
I couldn't be happier with how these images turned out and how stunning and in love these two are.
Wishing you a forever happily ever - may you two be as happy and in love as you were on this day you decided to become one.
Thank you for choosing to work with me.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a couples portrait photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
]]>
I couldn't wait to meet sweet Sophia! I knew her session would be just as amazing her mama's maternity. There aren't enough words to describe how much I loved working with Aliona and Igor, here's a recap of their maternity session earlier in the summer. Sophia was an absolute angel, perfect peachy skin, gorgeous eyes and ever so squishy and snugly! In a long streak of boy newborn sessions lately, it's a so much fun with baby girls as there are more dainty props and outfits to play around with.
Aliona and Igor being first time parents were so natural and calm with Sophia, it's not a common site and it was extremely endearing to see how smitten Igor is with his little princess already.
I can't wait to see Sophia grow and hope to be a part of many more shared memories for this wonderful family! Thank you for choosing me for such an amazing time in your lives.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a newborn photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
]]>I was so excited to meet little Vincent and his mama and papa. Turns out that his mom and I attended high school together but since our class was soooo large we didn't really cross paths. I'm so glad she found me though, it was such a fun session! The day of our session it was Vincent's actual 1'st birthday!! He made me work for the few smiles that I was able to get but it was worth it. His piercing blue eyes and his curiosity to explore his surrounding and environment. He was crawling all over the place and very intrigued with the fallen leaves. I loved getting to know Vincent and his family.
October is the busiest month of the year for photographers, kind of like April is crunch time for accountants. It's a gorgeous time to take family pictures and to be outside and enjoy the vibrant colors. It's absolutely stunning and makes my own heart sing with joy :)
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a family photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
]]>"One more baby boy, to fill our hearts and lives with joy"
I couldn't wait to meet Carlos!! When I got the text from Martha that she had delivered I was so excited when I saw pictures of him, a full head of hair, perfect skin and a few rolls to boot!! The session went so smoothly, little Carlos was an absolute dream! We were able to capture moments with mom, dad, big brother and even grandma and grandpa for a wonderful generation picture to have forever.
My favorite picture from the whole session still is the one where not only Carlos opened his eyes and look right into the camera, but where he cracked a full ear to ear grin! Such a sweet and handsome little guy.
Martha, a vision of beauty and grace!! Only twelve days after giving birth and looking breathtakingly beautiful, rocking a Sew Trendy Accessories gown that she wore for her maternity session which was her absolute favorite.
Check out the last image from the session - my favorite blooper to date too :D
Here's look back on Martha's maternity session from this summer.
Thank you again for choosing me for your maternity and newborn sessions - I adore your family and can't wait to see your boys grow!!
**UPDATE** - Carlos's newborn session has been featured on the Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy Magazine. Read more of what Martha had to say here.
This is how we know the session has come to an end :)
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a portrait photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
]]>"You don't love someone because they are perfect,
you love them despite that they are not" - Jodi Picoult
Such a beautiful couple, they are expecting their first little one soon!! The session moved so smoothly as both took direction so well, complete naturals in front of the camera. Maternity sessions are my second most favorite sessions to newborn photography. Something so amazing about capturing these special moments between a mom and dad to be. It's not just the first pregnancy that's special, each is so different and unique. The first is the most exciting because it's all new. The second is exciting seeing your first childs wonder about becoming an older sibling and if you make it to more than two you have a heart of pure gold and have so much love to give!!
This is the first time the navy tutu skirt made it's appearance, Margarita had mentioned she loved the color blue (if you haven't noticed) and I was just about to start making a new tutu so decided to make a navy one for her session particularly. We were lucky enough that it was still warm enough (last time for the summer) to get into the water still.
The only sad part about the session is that later on I found out Margarita has lost her shoes in the process :(
Hoping the experience and the memories created will outweigh the loss of a good pair of heels.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a maternity photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun and unique maternity experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
]]>Together our strength can't be broken.
I sadly do not get to do engagement/couples sessions too often and that's a shame because I really truly enjoy them so much. I love getting to know couples, their love story and seeing their love sparkle as they look into each others eyes. Atulya and Preethika are newlyweds and the joy / sparkle in their eyes as they looked at one another makes every image that much more special to me. Their love story is a short engagement and like they always say, "when you know, you know!".
Our original scheduled session date was moved due to super high winds and possible rain but I think it worked out for the best. The day of our session the light was nothing short of breathtaking and the weather was pure perfection.
I am beyond thrilled with the gallery outcome for this beautiful couples session and hoping to see and work with them again in the future.
Thank you for choosing me for your family photography needs - Alina
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide. Along with being a VIP Member of the National Association of Professional Woman.
Looking for a portrait photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun and unique experience in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
]]>Oh this sweet baby girl was a dream for her newborn session!! Mommy and daddy are so smitten with her and I can totally see why. Dan had expressed the want for daddy & daughter images and a few specific posses and Juliette was perfect for those moments giving her daddy the exact images he had hoped for. She even let me try some new props/ideas I had been looking forward to doing for some time but have been having a boy streak (don't get me wrong, these little men steal my heart, but you can't beat headbands and girly props). Although she did sleep rather well, there were moments where she was wide awake, perfectly calm and staring into the camera! I love how the session turned out and I was so thrilled to work with this wonderful family!!
Thank you for choosing me for such a special time in your family!
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide.
Looking for a newborn photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun and unique newborn session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
]]>
But when they are born, no one can image life without them" - Unknown
I adore Sasha and Johnathon! Their love for one another is so pure and strong it's a joy to watch them interact. I loved working with them for their lifestyle maternity session before Miles arrived and I was even more thrilled to meet Miles this time around!
Miles decided to stay awake for the entire duration of his session, which is perfectly okay and safe being that we had a lifestyle session vs a posed studio session. I think both types of session are beautiful and each have their perks. Sasha is a natural! I still can't get over her birth story...she went and worked a full 8 hour shift after having started contractions in the middle of the night, for a first time mama this is very rare to have remained calm.
Having seen how much love they have for one another, I have no doubts that little Miles will be surrounded with more love, adoration, respect and tender care! Bogey, his big furry brother will be his little protector.
Chicago, IL - Lifestyle Newborn Baby Boy Session with Alina Renert Photography
Looking for a lifestyle photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun, unique newborn lifestyle session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide.
]]>To be loved is something...
To love and be loved in return is everything!"
Michelle and Carlos were wonderful! They drove quite a distance for their session with me and I'm so honored they chose me for such a special time in their lives. They were both absolute naturals in front of the camera. So comfortable and in love with one another. Michelle is absolutely stunning, and was glowing with happiness and love.
A wonderful session with two very much in love people is the best combination for a perfect gallery! There wasn't an image I didn't personally love. Hoping to be able to meet this little man soon when he comes into the world!
Thank you for choosing Alina Renert Photography.
Chicago, IL - Outdoor Sunset Maternity Session with Alina Renert Photography
Looking for a maternity photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun, unique maternity session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide.
]]>is just to love and be loved in return" - Unknown
I'm thrilled to have worked with this family again this year! Last year we did a late fall session and the kiddos were quite cold :(
Here's a recap of their fall session from last year. This year we decided to go for warmer weather and at the very last minute switched form a regular scenic location to a lifestyle urban session, I particularly love this location because it's so versatile. I love seeing families yearly as their kids grow and change. It's such an honor to be a part of memories for a family year after year.
It definitely wasn't cold this year, the kids were more cooperative and having a great time running around and being themselves.
Chicago, IL - Urban Lifestyle Family Session with Alina Renert Photography
Looking for a lifestyle photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun, unique lifestyle family session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide.
]]>It's the only feeling we have which is infinite...” ― Christina Westover
I've had the pleasure of knowing Olga since 2008 when we went on a group trip to Israel. I remember the first time I met Dan when they started dating, and today they still look at each other with the same love and adoration. I was fortunate enough to be there when Olga was expecting Sofia and captured her maternity then. Sofia has brought so much joy to their family of three, and I know they cannot wait to be a family of four very soon! This little one is going to have one amazing big sister and the love of two incredible parents, one lucky little one!!
The day of our session it just so happened to be a 90+ degree day, very humid and sticky. Anyone who know's me, this doesn't stop me though. Olga and Dan were wonderful with taking direction and Sofia was a gem!! By the end of the session holding hands and showing me her lip gloss and toys.
I was able to capture some of my favorite in water peaceful images. I love when mommies fully trust in my vision and sit back and enjoy the process.
Thank you for choosing to work with me again, I loved every minute of it!!
I absolutely LOVED shooting Lisa's family session!! I've had the pleasure of meeting Lisa back in the day when I was only 17, she happened to be the manager of a bank where my friends worked. Through out the years our paths crossed and we had been connected through Facebook through out the whole time. As my business grew, Lisa has followed and been a fan of my work from the start and that's amazing!! We all start somewhere and she stayed a fan through my growth. Earlier this year, she had contacted me about doing a family session with her two gown kids and sons high school sweetheart girlfriend. We had narrowed down a date, half days were taken off of work, all the outfits were picked out and I was given a fair warning that this is a family that liked to goof off and have a good time!! Nothing I like hearing more than that!! :) I gave a fair warning back that, if smiles aren't big or genuine enough there could be barking and meowing involved. The session flowed amazingly, and everyone was up for anything all while having a great time. I haven't laughed quite so much or so hard in a while during a session. I deal with little kids and babies all the time, so when an adult plays a smarty pants with me (keeping it PG13) I'll not only take it, but I'll dish it right back :) The entire family are HUGE Blackhawks fans, so we incorporated their love for the team with everyone wearing their jerseys.
I loved working with Lisa and her entire family, their gallery turned out beautiful and everything I'm hoping she's hoped for! This just so happened to be her own birthday present to herself. Oh, and happy early wedding anniversary!!!
Thank you so much for choosing and entrusting your beautiful family with me.
Chicago, IL - Fun Outdoor Family Session with Alina Renert Photography
Looking for a family photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun, unique baby session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide.
]]>Having someone to love is family.
Having both is a blessing" - Unkown
When I was contacted by Min and Suzzie I was super excited that I had the availability to fit them into my schedule on short notice, the perks of being a full time photographer is the ability of making your own hours and schedule. When we spoke on the phone, I learned that they also had an older son, Troy, who's a total sweetheart! As the session started, he was a bit shy and not too excited to join in on the family pictures. Both Min and Suzzie's expectations of Troy having a photo with Kai were low. I'm so glad we were able to super exceed them by having a ton of cute moments with flirty Troy with his baby brother!! By the end of the session, Troy was giving me hugs and high fives like we've been friends forever! Never the less, Kai, stole my heart and I can't get over it. He was perfect in every way! Slept absolutely wonderfully, was a dream to pose and photograph. Every newborn photographers dream newborn session!!
I'm so thankful that you two have found me and allowed me to be a part of such an amazing time in your growing family's life! I do hope to see more of you and see your sweet boys grow!
Chicago, IL - Newborn Baby Boy Session with Alina Renert Photography
Looking for a newborn photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun and unique newborn session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide.
]]>is undeniably the strongest emotion in the human soul"
Such a sweet family!! Martha is simply gorgeous, and isn't missing her ever so talked about maternity glow. Carrying another little prince to add on to her older son she's going to have her hands full with two wonderful boys. For our session, the light and sunset were both beautiful and allowed us for some wonderful moments to be captured. It was beyond hot and humid on the day of our session and poor Martha was being bitten up by mosquito's pretty bad, even causing some swelling from the bite reaction. None the less, she was wonderfully easy to pose, work with and photographed beautifully! I simply cannot wait to meet your little man soon!!!
Thank you for choosing to work with me! - Alina
Chicago, IL - Outdoor Maternity Sunset Session with Alina Renert Photography
Looking for a maternity photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun, unique naternity session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide.
]]>" The love of a family, makes life beautiful"
What a fun and effortless maternity session this was! Olena and Igor are absolutely to die for adorable, their love radiates and shines so bright. I work with many mommy and daddy's to be and every daddy is attentive, sweet and caring, Igor, he stepped it up a notch! Not only was he super attentive, caring, loving and adoring towards Olena, but he was also super helpful to me and my mom, my assistant. Even though he, like most dads, do not like to take pictures of be in them, he did did wonderfully. By looking at the images of how relaxed and happy he is you would never know. Olena, stunning on camera and off. A complete natural at posing, reading my mind and flowing through the session.
When we arrived at our location, I was saddened to see that the city had butchered the location with a giant fence across a stunning field of flowers. Thinking on my feet, we worked around the issue and were still able to capture everything and much more than planned. We were able to capture four of my gowns, the red that Olena arrived in, bikini in the water and topless!!! That's an amazing session if you ask me! :)
Thank you so much for choosing to work with me, I cannot wait to meet your sweet princess!!
Chicago, IL - Outdoor Maternity Sunset Session with Alina Renert Photography
Looking for a maternity photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun, unique naternity session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide.
]]>and all together make this world a beautiful garden" - Unknown
I loved working with this family for their maternity session and couldn't be happier they chose me for their newborn session with little Nate. Isabella, was such a sweet big sister, making sure Nate was happy and ''shushing'' him back to sleep in between watching Frozen and eating cookies and milk. Nate was pure joy!! Perfect little ten fingers and toes, amazing soft baby skin and complexion. The session moved along smoothly and we were able to accomplish all the desired props and poses. He slept beautifully throughout all of them. The little setup with the desk was the 'difficult' one, not because it's a small prop but little Nate was hungry. After a full top off, he fell asleep and snuggled in to day dream of future classes :)
I love everything about this newborn gallery and this family is so easy to work with. On the day of the session it was little Nate's daddy's Birthday too!!
Chicago, IL - Newborn Baby Boy Session with Alina Renert Photography
Looking for a newborn photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun and unique newborn session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide.
]]>
FAMILY - Where life begins and love never ends.
When Kira contacted me through a Facebook group for your family photo's it was last minute but I was glad I had an opening, because her family and boys were simply adorable! With kids I always expect to work much harder than any other session. They are the boss and their mood is never predictable, but I always assume they'll make me work for the smiles and it'll take them a while to warm up to the idea of having a camera pointed towards them. The boys are simply too cute for words! Keaton had a rough time waking up from his nap and REALLY made me work for the smiles but thanks to the introduction of bubbles it was hard to have him sit still and NOT smile. Lately, the Chicago weather has been either nothing but rain and tornado warning or super hot with a heat index of 100+. So of course we I arrived it was raining outside, although we were lucky enough that the rain passed through quickly and we were able to enjoy a bit of the outdoor deck and even the gorgeous views of the skyline on the rooftop deck.
Thank you for choosing me for your lifestyle family session!
Chicago, IL - Lifestyle Family Session with Alina Renert Photography
Looking for a lifestyle photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun, unique lifestyle session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide.
]]>it's wanting what you got" - Unknown
I don't have enough words in the English language to describe how much fun and how much I adore these four!! When Alena called me for a last minute family session I was thrilled to work with her family before I even met them. Later that day I drove up to meet them to discuss all the details for the following week. After an hour or so of laughs and story telling I left super excited for their session. I was told that this would be their first professional family portrait session, to which I always feel more pressure to do an amazing job. We arrived on location and the girls were full of smiles and eager to start. Doesn't matter that we lathered ourselves with bug spray, we were still eaten alive!! Poor mom and dad were also heading on a mini vacation to celebrate their 10'th anniversary the following morning. The session moved effortlessly and super quick without being rushed. We were able to have family portraits, individuals with each daughter and a full setup of each daughter alone all in under one hour and 15 minutes!! Not only did we manage to have a full gallery in a short amount of time, but I fell in love with every single image!! The girls are beautiful and photograph effortlessly, while mom and dad were able to just enjoy their girls and time together (minus being eaten alive...). I so very much hope to see and work with these four again in the future, it was nothing but joy!
Thank you for choosing to work with me!!
Buffalo Grove, IL - Outdoor Family Sunset Session with Alina Renert Photography
Looking for a family milestone photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun, unique baby session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide.
]]>
Chicago, IL - Newborn Baby Girl Session with Alina Renert Photography
Looking for a newborn photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun and unique newborn session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide.
]]>you don't even know existed
until you love a child" - Unknown
I probably say this too often, but I LOVE my clients!! Each has their unique story of how they met, how their journey to parenthood starts and the love I witness between them. These lovebirds were scheduled for a sunset maternity session in mid May!! Thanks to the 'wonderful'' spring/summer that Chicago has been having we weren't able to do their session until late June. The scheduled day of our session, yet again rain was predicted. We decided that we would take our changes with some outdoor moments captured with Daddy and could always do Mommy alone on another day if it down poured on us. The lack of sun, wasn't an issue by any means as the sky was painted with beautiful moody clouds. Much to my happiness their puppy, Mia, was brought along for the fun. When working with dogs and little kids, we tend to 'meow', bark and make overall odd random noises. This brings the attention of the dog/kids to the camera or more or less to the location where the sound is coming from. More times than not, this always works wonders on the parents ;) Causing lots of laughs and genuine moments to captured. So be it if I'm known as the barking/meowing photographer! Whatever it takes to get that laugh, smile or fun moments from my clients I'm happy to do.
Thank you for choosing me, hope you had as much of a blast we I did!
Chicago, IL - Maternity Lifestyle Photography
Looking for a maternity photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun, unique maternity session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide
]]>
a grin spreads to the eyes,
a chuckle comes from the belly;
but a good laugh bursts forth from the soul,
overflows, and bubbles all around" — Carolyn Birmingham
There were no shortage of laughs and good times at this lifestyle maternity session. In my line of work, it's not rare to see a couple in love and happy about their pregnancy. It IS rare to see a couple so absolutely smitten with one another, a gentle caress, a loving look, genuine smiles and love radiating in everything they do for one another. This kind of love is a great one and one that was an absolute joy to capture.
I'm a huge animal love and adore nothing more when furry babies are included in sessions. Bogey was awesome, and did steal a portion of the session with his cuteness. He's going to make a great protector to his baby brother soon.
I cannot wait to meet your little man!! There is no doubt that he'll be surrounded with love, devotion and two amazing parents (and a big brother). :)
This blog session has been featured on Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy Magazine, seen here.
Interview with Sasha:
Blmommy: Due Date?
Sasha: August 17th, 2015
Blmommy: How did you find out your were expecting?
Sasha: We planned a trip with friends to Mexico, made sure to take a pregnancy test prior as to allow us to party hard on vacation, test was negative. The entire vacation I was super sick, nauseous, etc “Montezuma’s Revenge” thinking it was the water in Mexico. Upon our return, alas I was actually pregnant!
Blmommy: How did you tell the father?
Sasha: The father of the baby was with me when I took the pregnancy test upon our arrival from vacation.
Blmommy: Did you find out the gender of your baby?
Sash: Yes, we had both of our families out to dinner and did a cake filling color reveal!
Blmommy: Is there a name picked out yet?
Sasha: Yes, his name is Miles Moe! Middle name will be decided upon once he is born.
Blmommy: How has pregnancy changed you as a woman?
Sasha: As we are expecting, we purchased a home in the suburbs moving from the city to be closer to my family. It has been a complete change of pace and attitude to which I was anxious about as my husband and I are “city people” but now I absolutely love being even more family oriented as we expect baby Miles!
Blmommy: What advice do you wish you had known before getting pregnant?
Sasha: Throughout my pregnancy, I have had many friends pregnant and have their babies, all of which have given me tips and advise and stories of gross and non gross situations. I feel like I have been getting prepared all along!
Blmommy: What are your 3 must have pregnancy items?
Sash: Watermelon (every week), My husband and our dog who have been so supportive, maternity pants!
Blmommy: What is one thing you find beautiful about being pregnant?
Sasha: Feeling the baby move inside my belly. It makes me feel that I am the one who is giving him strength to kick me which makes me confident that my husband and I will be great at giving him strength to grow up to be a strong little boy!
Blmommy:What would you tell someone who just found out they were pregnant?
Sasha: would tell them to expect the unexpected and roll with the punches because everyone’s pregnancy is different despite the stories friends share amongst each other. Being flexible with situations while pregnant will prepare you to be very flexible once the baby arrives because then its all about just doing what needs to be done!
What are your beauty must haves while pregnant? Cocoa butter to avoid stretch marks, regular lotion for the rest of your body because as you stretch and hands and feet swell, the skin doesn’t accommodate as you may anticipate!
Blmommy: Words about your photographer?
Sasha: Alina Renert was wonderful! She was able to get a great sense of my husband, myself and our puppy and tailor our photo session to us at our home! We wanted to depict the love our family shares and our new home and Alina did just that! We are very pleased with the outcome of the photos and look forward to having our new born session!
Chicago, IL - Maternity Lifestyle Photography
Looking for a maternity photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun, unique maternity session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide
]]>throw all the paint on it you can"
— Danny Kaye
I was simply over the moon ecstatic when Urszula contacted me that the twins were turning one and it was time to update their photo's. Last time I saw these two cuties was when I did their Family Lifestyle Session around their six month mark, you can see that session here. These beautiful girls took some amazing features from each of their parents. I cannot get over their gorgeous skin complexion and those stunning vibrant blue eyes!
Although it didn't rain on the day of our session it was horribly muggy and damp. The light was great but heat did cause us to be eaten alive by mosquitoes. Despite all the odds, there was no shortage of smiles! This time around both cuties were grinning, giggling and ear to ear smiling for me!
Can't wait to see them grow!!
Lincolnshire, IL - Twin Sisters First Birthday Milestone Session with Alina Renert Photography
Looking for a baby milestone photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun, unique baby session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs. *Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide*
]]>to have life growing inside of you.
There is no bigger gift"
By far one of my favorite locations for a morning session versus an evening sunset session. Emily Oaks Nature Center in Skokie, IL is a beautiful location filled with lots of nooks and crannies of beautiful spots for all types of sessions. In the morning the light shines through the trees and leaving the leaves glistening in the light.
This was such a fun maternity session - this mama came fully prepped with ideas and and even made her own flower halo which she looked beautiful in. The love and affection between this soon to be mom and soon to be dad was undeniable. He was absolutely smitten with her and she was simply glowing with love and affection for their baby boy.
Sometimes I can't tell which colors I prefer...so I play around with options.
Chicago, IL - Outdoor Maternity Photography with Alina Renert Photography
Looking for a maternity photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun, unique maternity session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs. *Alina Renert is a member of The Bump Society by Beauty & Lifestyle Mommy. A handpicked community of elite businesses nationwide*
]]>I couldn't wait to photograph this mama! When we first spoke over the phone I could sense I'd absolutely love working with her and I loved this session!!
When we had spoken about the session we had talked about the beach and getting in the water, not everyone is brave enough but it's truly stunning when it happens.
As I arrived at our location it was 83 degrees, sunny and with a slight cool breeze. I was concerned I had dressed too warm actually, as I walked scoping for the perfect spots to start the session the sky turned dark, the wind picked up and the temp dropped enough to make my knuckles turn white! As Lindy and Matt arrived with their sweet pup I was very concerned about it storming right then and there. You could see the storm/fog at the beach line and we weren't too far way. They had driven over an hour in traffic to their session so we decided to make the best of what light we had and continue until it either stormed or there was no more available light. Lindy had mentioned to me her favorite color was yellow and I had spent the previous night hand making a gorgeous full tutu skirt just for her session! Take a guess how many people it takes to make a full tutu skirt...four!! I'm lucky enough to have the more supportive husband and family to entangle themselves in tulle and subject themselves to 600 yards of TULLE! Yes, the skirt has 600 yards of tulle! It turned out perfect and all the hard work was totally worth it as Lindy looked beyond spectacular in it.
As we came to the beach the wind only picked up more but the water was calmer and the storm was no longer at the horizon threatening us. Lindy changed into lace Siri Gown by the one and only Sew Trendy Accessories and with her blonde curls, sandy beach and wispy sky she looked like a real mermaid standing there perfectly poised with her belly bump.
I adore every image from this session - thank you for being such troopers.
Chicago, IL - Outdoor Maternity Photography with Alina Renert Photography
Looking for a maternity photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun, unique maternity session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
]]>"I'm in love with a child I haven't met, yet"
Having had to postpone our session due to weather advisory promising dangerous winds, hail and flooding we were happy to see that it wasn't supposed to rain the following day. We arrived and the skies were beautiful, the air was crisp. As we walked 20 feet to our first location choice, the skies opened up and the rain POURED on us. I have to hand it to this mama, she didn't flinch or frown. We continued on as if the rain wasn't pouring down. The site of me and my assistant standing under a giant reflector on our heads to keep my gear from getting soaked must have been an interesting one. I honestly wish someone had taken our picture too!
Thankfully the storm didn't last long and we were able to continue with our session (without having to hide under umbrellas). Such a sweet couple and you could really see how strong their love for one another is and their soon to be little one. We had a blast with the Coral Sew Trendy Accessories gown portion and me teaching the dad how to throw it up for those gorgeous puffy waves.
We sensed another storm coming our way as the wind picked up, the clouds become darker and moodier. Giving me the opportunity to capture some dramatic images of a proud, confident and stunning mama!
Chicago, IL - Maternity Photographer, Alina Renert Photography
Looking for a maternity photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun, unique maternity session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
]]>Oh, how long I've waited to meet this handsome little boy!! He was perfection!! Mommy and daddy love him so much already and it was so wonderful to see how involved his daddy is. During the session, daddy was there to help the entire time, whether it was spotting during prop shots, changing, cleaning, soothing and holding. Although most moms prefer to catch up on some much needed zzzz's, this little tykes mama was full of energy and excitement! We were able to have a few different setups as he was such a calm little guy, I think his daddy really wants him to be a future NBA player and mommy just loves her little lion cub.
I can't wait to watch him grow and become a little pack leader of his own :)
Looking for a newborn photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun, unique newborn session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
]]>It has little to do with the things you see
and everything to do with the way you see them" Elliott Erwitt
I adore this family!! Over the past year Vicky and I have become close not simply because of our common interest and passion for photography and art but also because she's one of the sweetest people I've come across. Vicky of vzmodaphotography.com is also a very talented photographer in the Schaumburg area. We worked together last year when she took amazing photo's of my family for us. I've admired and looked up to her creativity since before venturing into my own craft.
We had decided to try something a little different from the normal forest preserve/field locations and opted for an urban lifestyle feel. I'm so in love with the results! I'm a huge fan of lifestyle photography in general but loving it even more outdoors. The ability to allow a family to be relaxed and themselves is an amazing concept.
Lia who's a doll was a perfect little model, knowing perfectly well how to pose (helps having a mommy who's a photographer). Lily being much younger had a plan of her own, so we worked with her personality and allowed her to explore.
As the sun was setting we were welcomed with the most stunning light - photographers dream light really. Creating beautiful hazy warm hues.
I'm so honored that Vicky and Mark chose me to capture these fun/free spirited moments for their family.
I accidentally captured this perfectly timed moment
Looking for a family photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun, unique family session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
]]>I can't get over how much I love maternity sessions. Mothers simply glow with love, beauty and anticipation and Yana was no exception. Yana, Peter and big sister Isabella were super sweet, much like with most 4 year olds it took Isabella a little warming up - but you'd never know because when she did have her turn in front of the camera she was a rock star. At least she won't be having to share her toys with her soon to be little brother :)
Yana was beyond gorgeous with each wardrobe change. She wore a lace blue dress that complimented her skin tone perfectly and when she slipped into the Sew Trendy Accessories black mermaid gown she was radiating beauty! A maternity session wouldn't be finished without the iconic flowing dress flying in in the air and Yana is carrying so well that it's hard to tell she's expecting from far away and we have to position her so you could really see her little growing bundle.
The sunset was beautiful, pastel colors covering the sky and the sun peaked through the trees. Cannot wait to meet your little man Yana!
Looking for a maternity photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun, unique maternity session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
]]>that it cannot leave an
imprint in this world"
I was impatiently waiting for handsome Ari's arrival. Having met his mommy and daddy during their lifestyle maternity session, I instantly knew what an amazing pair of parents he'd have. I adore, from the bottom of my heart Noe and Matt. Two genuine souls who were able to find one another and make a little handsome guy like Ari. Ari Wayne was named after his great-grandpa and his grandpa, Ari for his great-grandpa who was a WWII Fighter Pilot - so we of course had to incorporate his many medals (there was a box to choose from). The big medal with the blue ribbon is the Distinguished Flying Cross which was for his Heroism and Extraordinary Achievement while Participating in Aerial Flight. Along with Wayne for his grandpa who was a Radio Intercept Analysis in the air force and had graduated top of his class (we weren't able to get his medals in time for the session, but he too was very decorated). Ari, was a perfect little newborn. I couldn't get over how much hair and how it had little natural highlights. He most certainly loved being in the coca cola crate snuggling a teddy bear.
I cannot wait to see him grow, change and adapt a personality of his own. I have no doubts he'll make his mommy and daddy very proud.
Looking for a newborn photographer in the Chicago area? I'd love to work with you! I am based out of the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove,IL. I offer a fun, unique newborn session in the surrounding areas not limited to: Wheeling IL, Deerfield IL, Northbrook IL, Vernon Hills IL, Mount Prospect IL, Mundelein IL, Lincolnshire IL, Libertyville IL, Glenview IL, Des Plaines IL and surrounding Chicago suburbs.
]]>beginning of all things - wonder,
hope, a dream of possibilities" - Eda J. LeShan
Every moment should be cherished and remembered with little ones. When Mai and Ken contacted me about photographing their little two month old Yui, I was hesitant because I usually advise waiting until the three month milestone as they are less sleepy, more expressive at this age already. I wasn't prepared what a little angle Yui would be! The session flowed so smoothly she was a perfect little model. Mai's mother came to the session as well and it was a pleasant surprise to be able to capture three generations of their growing family. Although, I do not think grandma anticipated to be in the photos and I'm only assuming this because as soon as she took her place next to Mai - she was overwhelmed with happiness and tears of joy streamed down her face...which in turn had Mai crying and even Ken. Myself...I tried to keep it together for as long as I could and managed to only let one lonely tear slip by. It was a beautiful moment to witness and capture, I'm so happy I was able to be a part of it. This is the reason I have a passion for photography, I'm amazed and awed at every session. *Photo session was done in-studio at Alina Renert Photography located in Buffalo Grove, IL.
"If your baby is...
beautiful and perfect, never cries or fusses,
sleeps on schedule and burps on demand, an angel all the time...
You're the grandma!" - Theresa Bloomingdale
Buffalo Grove, IL - Baby Milestone with Alina Renert Photography
"Life without Ballet would be Pointeless"
How gorgeous this this expecting ballerina mama?! I absolutely love working with Lera, it started when she and her hubby had gotten engaged and hired me for an engagement session (which was so much fun!) Then we moved towards an outdoor ballerina session at Evanston University Campus. Now she's expecting a sweet little bundle and how could I not take the moment to capture her glowing beauty? Session taken place in my in-home studio located in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago in Buffalo Grove, IL.
Cannot wait to meet your little one, thank you for being so easy and fun to work with!
Alina Renert Photography - Life on Pointe Maternity
]]>Life is about creating yourself" - George Bernard Shaw
I was fortunate enough to be able to mentor with Brittney Shey Photography. I had met Brittney in a photographer group where we help one another, build each other up and provide support.
I had been talking with Brittney months prior to actually mentoring with her and I already knew I had made a friend not just met a wonderful teacher. I strongly believe those that are selfless and giving go a lot further in life than those to are selfish and cut throat. This is who Brittney is, an amazing teacher, supporter, guidance counselor of sorts and a vault of knowledge.
As I arrived in Nashville, Brittney picked me up and we went to grab a very late dinner. We weren't even able to really talk 'shop' as we had so many similarities in our personal lives despite being worlds apart. I happened to arrive during Easter weekend and we had many conversations surrounding religion and cultures as I'm a Russian Jewish immigrant to Chicago. Despite any differences we had bonded and learned from one another our customs and cultural differences and had a blast throughout the process. She even allowed me to snuggle with her dog Max since I was homesick for my pup. It's the little things in life I tell ya ;)
On the day of the mentoring, we had two newborn models lined up and it just so happened that one of the model's moms fell ill that very morning. Brittney instantly was able to arrange for another model to come in that same day so I would have the experience of working with both a boy and a girl newborn while mentoring.
Everyone has their talents and strengths and that's very true of Brittney's passion and love for working with newborns, people and it comes as second nature to her. The ease in which she rocks and coocoo's a little one while posing them gently is a gift! Every step of the way she was there to explain, show and guide me through the process. I didn't feel overwhelmed or confused because she was there to explain it perfectly the first time around.
She encouraged me and helped me feel confident in myself. I'm forever grateful for everything I was able to learn, her support since I've arrived back home but also in gaining another trustful friend who simply 'gets' it.
I highly recommend mentoring with Brittney if the means are available - this is an experience worth every penny and moment.
Thanks a million Britt!!
Here are a some images from our mentoring weekend!
was quite a surprise -
you're changing
right before our eyes!
First you rolled,
then you crawled,
now you're standing
straight and tall.
With hands outstretched
your little feet
will walk into the arms
you'll meet.
You must have felt
some trepidation
but your face
was jubilation!
Step by step, day by day
you're growing up
in every way!
]]>
I'm wiggling for you.
I can hear you say you love me,
Mum, I love you too.
~
Very soon you'll meet me,
And kiss my little face.
And I will feel your warm skin,
And admire you for your grace.
~
Mummy, are you ready,
My life is just about to start.
I will hold your little finger,
But you will hold my heart" - Unknown
Alina Renert Photography - Lifestyle Maternity, Downers Grove, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Lifestyle Maternity, Downers Grove, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Lifestyle Maternity, Downers Grove, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Lifestyle Maternity, Downers Grove, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Lifestyle Maternity, Downers Grove, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Lifestyle Maternity, Downers Grove, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Lifestyle Maternity, Downers Grove, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Lifestyle Maternity, Downers Grove, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Lifestyle Maternity, Downers Grove, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Lifestyle Maternity, Downers Grove, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Lifestyle Maternity, Downers Grove, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Lifestyle Maternity, Downers Grove, IL
Dance is the conversation
between body and soul - Unknown
I love everything about golden light (two hours before sunset) but this delicious light is even better when paired with the changing leaves of the season. Love nothing more than the hues of orange, yellow and green mixed together with beautiful little models in front of me. Having said that, photographing your own niece and nephew isn't easy. My niece wants to play and show off her goofy faces while a almost two year old (at the time) can be tricked with leaves producing some amazing giggles.
I chose one of my favorite spots near in Evanston, IL being the Lighthouse. It's stunning foliage, structure and near by beach are the perfect combination for any time of year for a stunning background.As we move into middle of February I'm starting to see that 2015 is going to be a year filled with maternity, newborns and many many baby girls!!! Dates are now filling up super fast and I'm already booking sessions into July!
Alina Renert Photography - Portraits
Alina Renert Photography - Portraits
Alina Renert Photography - Portraits
Alina Renert Photography - Portraits
Alina Renert Photography - Portraits
Alina Renert Photography - Portraits
Alina Renert Photography - Portraits
]]>I absolutely adore this quote! Urszula and Remi are going to raise their little princesses to love unconditionally and fully, there is no other way - their love is so evident it would simply be impossible for these two blue eyes beauties to be capable of anything less.
They have a beautiful home, furnished with their individual cultural touches. I had a hard time telling the girls apart, both beautiful, with captivating eyes I couldn't stop gazing into. I was clearly told that one is the ''happy'' one and one is the ''calm'' one. Apparently they decided to play the twin switch game on the day of their session and switch roles. It was adorable to catch both of their smiles and their giggle, it was too cute!
We breezed through our session effortlessly and both girls did marvelously!
Alina Renert Photography / Twin Girls - Lifestyle Family Session in Des Plaines, IL
Alina Renert Photography / Twin Girls - Lifestyle Family Session in Des Plaines, IL
Alina Renert Photography / Twin Girls - Lifestyle Family Session in Des Plaines, IL
Alina Renert Photography / Twin Girls - Lifestyle Family Session in Des Plaines, IL
Alina Renert Photography / Twin Girls - Lifestyle Family Session in Des Plaines, IL
Alina Renert Photography / Twin Girls - Lifestyle Family Session in Des Plaines, IL
Alina Renert Photography / Twin Girls - Lifestyle Family Session in Des Plaines, IL
Alina Renert Photography / Twin Girls - Lifestyle Family Session in Des Plaines, IL
Alina Renert Photography / Twin Girls - Lifestyle Family Session in Des Plaines, IL
Alina Renert Photography / Twin Girls - Lifestyle Family Session in Des Plaines, IL
you must raise children yourself.” – Chinese proverb
Family is the most amazing gift anyone could ask for or be privileged to have. From small boo-boo's, tickles and giggles to helping make life altering decisions. Family is the one aspect in most peoples lives that is constant, solid and hearty.
I was able to photograph this family session before Hanukkah/Christmas and it was amazing to see them interact with one another. It was wonderful to see that even with such a large age gap between siblings, their love for one another was so clearly visible. Their pup Gosha was a sweetheart and like with most kids/pets they both react to squeaky dog toys. I love when families include their furry babies into session, after all they are a part of the family too!
Masha had decorated the entire house in the most beautiful winter/holiday decor. No detail was left unplanned. The gifts were beautifully wrapped under the tree and festive white decor placed around the fireplaces in the family room.
Family is a beautiful thing and this particular one is blessed with two amazing kids!
Alina Renert Photography - Family Lifestyle Session, Northbrook, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Family Lifestyle Session, Northbrook, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Family Lifestyle Session, Northbrook, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Family Lifestyle Session, Northbrook, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Family Lifestyle Session, Northbrook, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Family Lifestyle Session, Northbrook, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Family Lifestyle Session, Northbrook, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Family Lifestyle Session, Northbrook, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Family Lifestyle Session, Northbrook, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Family Lifestyle Session, Northbrook, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Family Lifestyle Session, Northbrook, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Family Lifestyle Session, Northbrook, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Family Lifestyle Session, Northbrook, IL
]]>I've said it a million times and I'll say it again, I absolutely LOVE lifestyle sessions. Lifestyle sessions allow for new parents to be comfortable in the own environment, to possibly sleep in a little bit even (if their little angels allow them to), and to not rush to pack everything they'll need, along with prepping their precious baby. By opting out of traditional posed sessions you aren't losing any of the connection or beauty. If anything I think there is something more special about candid moments, dads being comfortable in their home, moms less stressed with timelines and being able to just relax and feel at home :)
I'm overjoyed this family did want a lifestyle session as their home was the perfect background for lifestyle photography. Little Oliver wasn't much into sleeping and still not getting the hang of it too much either but during our session he did wonderfully. Just like with a regular session with a newborn we took breaks to feed, change and sooth him when he wasn't happy. Since he was 1 month old at the time of the session I wasn't holding my breath for him to sleep at all but he did as long as mommy or daddy were holding him. This also meant I had the opportunity to have his handsome eyes gazing straight into my camera! I adore awake newborn/baby captures just as much as the beautiful posed sleepy ones.
Thank you for allowing me to be apart of this great to adventure for your family.
Alina Renert Photography l Newborn Lifestyle in Mount Prospect, IL
Alina Renert Photography l Newborn Lifestyle in Mount Prospect, IL
Alina Renert Photography l Newborn Lifestyle in Mount Prospect, IL
Alina Renert Photography l Newborn Lifestyle in Mount Prospect, IL
Alina Renert Photography l Newborn Lifestyle in Mount Prospect, IL
Alina Renert Photography l Newborn Lifestyle in Mount Prospect, IL
Alina Renert Photography l Newborn Lifestyle in Mount Prospect, IL
Alina Renert Photography l Newborn Lifestyle in Mount Prospect, IL
Alina Renert Photography l Newborn Lifestyle in Mount Prospect, IL
Alina Renert Photography l Newborn Lifestyle in Mount Prospect, IL
Alina Renert Photography l Newborn Lifestyle in Mount Prospect, IL
Alina Renert Photography l Newborn Lifestyle in Mount Prospect, IL
Alina Renert Photography l Newborn Lifestyle in Mount Prospect, IL
Alina Renert Photography l Newborn Lifestyle in Mount Prospect, IL
Alina Renert Photography l Newborn Lifestyle in Mount Prospect, IL
]]>
I love working with families and kids, this is the biggest reason why I fell in love with photography in the first place. These precious moments frozen in time to cherish for generations to come. This wonderful family joined me for Chloe's second birthday pictures and some family portrait updates. The weather was rather dreadful but we managed to have fun and even Chloe smiled for a few frames outside. I always stress to my clients how important it is to be in the images with your children. The portraits we take of our kids are for us, but the family pictures we take are for them, maybe not today or tomorrow but in another 15-20 years when they'll really appreciate them. When they sit down with their own children and look through family albums on these moments.
Chloe was an absolute sweetie! Her mommy was worried we wouldn't catch any real smiles and within minutes in the suburbs of cold and rainy Chicago, Chloe was smiling up a storm!
With a toasty fire and some marshmallows were enjoyed with a little bit of story time.
Thank you for choosing Alina Renert Photography - Happy Holiday's and to a very joyful New Year!
Alina Renert Photography - Family
Alina Renert Photography - Family
Alina Renert Photography - Family
Alina Renert Photography - Family
Alina Renert Photography - Family
Alina Renert Photography - Kids
Alina Renert Photography - Kids
Alina Renert Photography - Kids
Alina Renert Photography - Family
Alina Renert Photography - Family
Alina Renert Photography - Kids
Alina Renert Photography - Kids
Alina Renert Photography - Kids
Alina Renert Photography - Kids
Alina Renert Photography - Kids
]]>Doubt that the sun dove move,
Doubt truth to be a liar,
But never doubt I love" - Shakespeare
I'm going to start off by saying that Maternity Sessions are by far my most favorite. It's such an exciting time for expecting parents, everything is new and exciting as this new chapter develops. But a soon as I have a newborn baby in my hands...then that's my favorite session. What can I say about this particular maternity shoot, what an amazing pair! I have known Luba for many many years now; we were even on a group Colorado trip years ago where she chatted up to my best friend to introduce her to her cousin, now happily married to my best friend! Luba is a free spirit and so fun loving. When we originally talked on the phone about what type of maternity session she wanted it was, "I’m up and willing for anything! I want it to be snowing and I’m okay with being in a thin maternity gown". Of course I’m always happy to hear my clients trust me and are up for anything but safety for mama and soon to be baby are still my number one concerns over any great shot. So prepped with lots of blankets, pregnancy hormones and a very nervous Andrey we were ready.
The session moved smoothly and Luba a downright natural in front of the camera. Wearing purple, blue and red complimented her ivory skin and her beautiful red hair. Thank you for trusting my vision to make you feel as beautiful as you look!
Andrey, you're so blessed. You have an amazingly beautiful wife and soon to be mama of your little 'first mate'. Luba, it's absolutely undeniable how in love Andrey is with you. With how gentle and caring he was to the simple way he looks at you with such affection and admiration!
Thank you for choosing me to be a part of such an amazing time in your lives.
Alina Renert Photography - Maternity
Alina Renert Photography - Maternity
Alina Renert Photography - Maternity
Alina Renert Photography - Maternity
Alina Renert Photography - Maternity
Alina Renert Photography - Maternity
Alina Renert Photography - Maternity
Alina Renert Photography - Maternity
Alina Renert Photography - Maternity
Alina Renert Photography - Maternity
Alina Renert Photography - Maternity
Alina Renert Photography - Maternity
Alina Renert Photography - Maternity
Alina Renert Photography - Maternity
Alina Renert Photography - Maternity
Alina Renert Photography - Maternity
Alina Renert Photography - Maternity
]]>
Paul and Renee's engagement session was filled with nothing but love, joy and lots of laughter with all parties involved. Their happiness is simply contagious! Had they not told me they had only met earlier this year around New Years I would have never guessed it. It's not just puppy love or lust, you can clearly see it's the bottom of your heart, fully invested love beyond words that they share. The way Renee simply melted in Paul's arms and couldn't stop smiling without even realizing it. Paul, is simply smitten...there is no other way to explain it if you haven't witnessed it.
Wishing these two love birds endless love, happiness, to never lose site of how beautiful their connection truly is! I'm thrilled to have been a part of this new chapter for them as they become husband and wife!
Congratulations and all the best in the years to come!
Alina Renert Photography - Engagement, Skokie, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Engagement, Skokie, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Engagement, Skokie, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Engagement, Skokie, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Engagement, Skokie, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Engagement, Skokie, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Engagement, Skokie, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Engagement, Skokie, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Engagement, Skokie, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Engagement, Skokie, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Engagement, Skokie, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Engagement, Skokie, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Engagement, Skokie, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Engagement, Skokie, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Engagement, Skokie, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Engagement, Skokie, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Engagement, Skokie, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Engagement, Skokie, IL
Alina Renert Photography - Engagement, Skokie, IL
]]>I strongly believe that we are all destined for something. Whether it's something big that affects a lot of people or something smaller that affects a few but makes an impact on them. I trust that everyone we meet and who comes into our lives are there for a reason to teach us something about life or ourselves.
I had casually known Enna on Facebook through mutual friends since earlier this year; we even were FitBit friends encouraging one another to take more steps towards a healthier us. It wasn't until Enna reached out to me about Bennett, her oldest being sick that I realized what impact she and her family would have on me.
What can I say about this family without getting overly emotional, they are simply incredible. Not only are Enna and Vitaliy loving, supportive parents but they are also huge supporters of those that also need help and support, hearts of gold and strength of 100 lions.
In a span of a month I had seen and worked with this family three times. Each time seeing the interaction melted my heart.
There are people who walk into our lives and leave a mark on our hearts and this is how I feel about this remarkable family.
Thank you for allowing me to be a part of these special moments for you.
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
For those that don't know...Bennett is Superman!
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
]]>Jonah is one of those kids that draws you in, that makes you simply fall in love with him hopelessly.
We had hoped to have had Jonah smashing his early birthday cake with his big brother Bennett by his side, but the day we had planned simply didn't work out. So Jonah, was the star of the show, and had EVERYONE’s attention all to himself and he was so happy about it. Not only was his Mommy jumping around but so was his grandma and my assistant (aka mom) and even my husband (who doesn't come often). All monkey'ing around to make sure Jonah was having the time of his life!
The day we had scheduled it was supposed to thunderstorm and we simply lucked out with Jonah being as happy as ever and being able to finish in time before the storm.
There are babies who hate cake, are indifferent, love it, or in Jonah's case who not only love it but make themselves giggle by flinging it in every direction possible by smashing it repeatedly without even trying an ounce :)
Jonah, may you grow up to be healthy, happy, strong, kindhearted and never forget to keep smiling!!
Happy Birthday Jonah!!
Alina Renert Photography / Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography / Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography / Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography / Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography / Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography / Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography / Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography / Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography / Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography / Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography / Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography / Cake Smash
]]>How will you be?
Will you look like Daddy or me?
Ten little fingers and ten little toes,
A wrinkled up forehead and a cute button nose.
You will be crying with that first cold touch,
And so will I because I love you so much".
~ Wendy Dahlke
Working with Alla and Michael was so much fun!
Alla has this amazing ability to read my mind, something that any photographer knows is hard to do because half the time we can’t find the right words for what we envision. She knew exactly, which look,and just how gently and elegantly to place her hands on her beautiful growing belly.
The weather was amazing, we had come prepared with boots for fall and were able to pull off a summer session with 75 degrees!! Even the sand ended up being warm enough to implement some beach shots.
I had a great time getting to know these wonderful expecting parents; they showed so much love for one another and their little growing bundle of joy.
I’m impatiently waiting to meet their little one!!!
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
]]>"There is no friendship, no love, like that of a mother for her child".
~ Henry Ward Beecher
I loved everything about this session. Lena is so elegant and poised. As we arrived and started we were bombarded by bees and bugs (which should have warned us how the rest of the session would go as well). As the session continued, Lena was absolutely amazing despite being eaten alive by mosquito's she never complained or asked to stop.
We were able to have three gown changes, first the Tutu Mama Skirt XTra Full by TAoPaN: The Art of Pregnancy and Newborn along with pink tulle wrapped around and tied in a bow, then the Jessica, Siri, and Rachel gowns by Sew Trendy Accessories.
While Lena stood in a beautiful white lace see-through gown, a man happened to walk past us with "Hercules", a fitting name for his giant black Great Dane. On the off chance he wouldn’t mind, we asked him if we could simply borrow his dog for a few minutes for a photo opt. Sadly, these images just didn't turn out as planned. Hopefully I'll find Hercules again on another shoot and show off his handsome look.
Since the sun sets earlier now and the mosquito's were eating us alive, we decided to come back again the following week to finish up some of the locations we didn't get a chance to use. The weather being unpredictable as it has been all summer, we were lucky to have had an odd warm day, Lena was even willing and able to walk into the water as the sun was setting.
I couldn’t be happier with the outcome and how easy Lena was to work with. She did her own makeup and hair and executed the look I asked her for perfectly.
Cannot wait to see how handsome your little one will be!
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
Alina Renert Photography / Maternity
]]>out pour of support, donations and prayers which were tremendously uplifting for his family.
Let's not forget to keep sharing the donation link, this family can use ALL the support they can get at this difficult time. Bennett's parents are simply amazing, when I met them and watched their interaction with one another and Bennett it was heartwarming. There was so much love in the room. The way each of them kissed, hugged, read and tickled him was unbelievably touching.
Most of the people I know gladly took the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, by dumping ice over their heads AND donating. I'm not asking anyone to dump more ice on your head...I am asking that you help spread the message to help this family and their sweet little boy.
I challenge everyone to donate AND share with all their family, friends, co-workers, any forums you may be a part of. The more who know and are aware the more this family can rest easier and focus on bringing Bennett home to be with his little brother again.
Here is the link: http://www.youcaring.com/medical-fundraiser/for-bennett-s-health-/229836#sthash.ogqkn6Py.dpuf
If you are local you can also help this way:
1. SHOW UP for a Registry Drive THIS MONTH, September 25th. There are two locations (cannot request to get tested specifically for Bennett, need to register with the national match)
CITY of CHICAGO -- September 25th, Thursday, at 2245 W. Ogden, Chicago, 9 am – 3:30 pm. There is also a blood drive same place, same time. Blood donations are important as people often require multiple transfusions during cancer treatments. For questions about this drive, contact Jennifer Vaughn at [email protected] or call her at (773)793-3990.
SUBURBS --
Swab a Cheek – Save a Life! Join the Gift of Life Bone Marrow Drive
Thursday, September 25, Rosh Hashanah
8:30 am – 2:00 pm, Rebecca K. Crown Social Hall of the North Shore Congregation Israel in Glencoe, 1185 Sheridan Rd, Glencoe, IL.
The congregation has partnered with Gift of Life Bone Marrow Foundation and the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism to bring an exciting and unique opportunity to help save lives through a donor recruitment drive. Potential donors will be entered into the bone marrow registry. Registration is simple, it requires a quick cheek swab and completion of a consent form. Potential donors must be between the ages of 18 and 60 and in general good health. The only way to know if you can help save a life is to take the first step and get tested! The entire process takes less than 10 minutes... No need to pre-register, just walk in. For general questions contact Rabbi Lisa Greene, [email protected], or call her, (847) 835-0724.
2. Cannot make it in person, then go to "Join the marrow registry" to begin the process of joining the National Registry by answering a few questions, they will send you a test-at-home kit. Only takes a few minutes with a huge potential to SAVE A LIFE!
Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Get better soon Bennett!
Again, the link to donate is: http://www.youcaring.com/medical-fundraiser/for-bennett-s-health-/229836#sthash.ogqkn6Py.dpuf
]]>Nicole was the perfect little model, taking great direction and showing how much she loved her little sister. Whether it was kisses or hugs, Nicole was showing Alice love.
We learned that Alice simply loved playing the keys of the piano, but I can't blame her it matched her outfit perfectly too. Both girls being simply too sweet!!
Cant' wait to see Alice again for her 1'st Birthday!!
Alina Renert Photography - Sibling Portraits
Alina Renert Photography - Portraits
Alina Renert Photography - Portraits
Alina Renert Photography - Sibling Portraits
Alina Renert Photography - Sibling Portraits
Alina Renert Photography - Portraits
Alina Renert Photography - Portraits
Alina Renert Photography - Portraits
]]>Dressing him up in a cute little biker outfit had me in giggles, but having Liam pose perfectly with a sly smile was too much for me to handle. He simply stole my heart!!
If all that wasn't enough, when it came time to enjoy cake Liam wasn't about tasting the delicious treat in front of him but rather demolishing it entirely in under 5 minutes! A new record!!
I love working with Liam and hope to see him and Rex soon.
Alina Renert Photography - Cake Smash
I had started talking to Julia about this session back in June and I was super excited to work with boys and two brothers! It seems like everyone is always having girls so I loved the idea of working with some handsome men!
I had been told upfront that Ben, the older brother didn't like having his picture taken so I figured it would be a challenge. Turned out quite differently, Ben didn't mind at all! Much like any child he needed to be a little engaged and ''entertained'' and it's a good thing I have a great assistant for these moments! As Ben sat there eagerly listening to the animals that are in zoo's I was able to capture some candid's of him. The two loved the little tepee tent. Sam found it super amusing to keep flipping the cover over himself in turn playing "peek-a-boo" with me. They loved the little red wagon, Ben being the great big brother and pulling Sam around.
We had discussed including Ben in the cake smash...but we didn't realize that Ben would have WAY more fun with the cake than Sam. Both parents jumped in for a few frames and even joined in on the smashing fun, but we can't forget the family dog!! Who also joined in on seamed to have really enjoyed his 5 minutes of freedom.
Overall a wonderful family and such a fun session!!
Alina Renert Photography l Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography l Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography l Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography l Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography l Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography l Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography l Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography l Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography l Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography l Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography l Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography l Cake Smash
Alina Renert Photography l Cake Smash
]]>
I have personally met the Gutin family on multiple occasions prior out our session. I had already known that these two sisters were beautiful AND well behaved. Although, I already knew of this prior it was still a pleasant surprise to have some great little models. They showed so much love and affection towards one another and their parents, took amazing direction!
The day was perfect, beautiful weather, location and fun for all. We even managed some ''out takes" of the girls and goofy faces. I love letting kids be kids and goof off for a few minutes to get that restless energy out of them.
I simply love how the session turned out and hope to work with this family again soon!
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
Alina Renert Photography / Family
]]>"Family - like branches on a tree;
we all grow in different directions;
yet our roots remain as one." - Unknown
I had been contacted to do this session back in April, yes April! These two amazing sisters started planning this surprise for their mom and dad that far in advance. When we spoke on the phone we had discussed how Rachel was going to be graduating college and her parents were about to celebrate 25 years of marriage along with both turning a milestone age (I'll keep it a secret...no one needs to know you both just turned 21)!
The original plan was to have two sessions in one. One was to have Mark and Gail show up at the predetermined location without knowing why and I was to greet and surprise them with an anniversary shoot to rekindle their love (not that it was needing rekindling, their flame is still burning VERY strong). The second part of the session was to be a family session, filled with goofy moments, millions of laughs and endless memories to be made.
As the days leading up to the session crept up, we narrowed down our outfits...well sort of. The night before at midnight we were still going over clothing options when Mark and Gail returned home to find half of the closet laid out on the floor/bed and wanted to know why and what was awaiting them the following morning. Even though the surprise was no longer a surprise everything still worked out beautifully! Everyone was up for anything, took amazing direction, and kept me laughing the entire time all while I was doing my usual, "Photo-yoga". :)
An amazing family through and through, I'm so unbelievably honored to have done this session for them for these great occasions!
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
I had asked the girls to leave so that I could focus on mom and dad for their Anniversary pictures, then we caught them sneaking peeks :)
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
25 years...and the love is still strong!
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
This family knows how to have fun!!
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
We even witnessed this adorable bird bath :P
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
The fun never stopped for a second the ENTIRE session!
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
Alina Renert Photography l Family & Anniversary
]]>"A mother's joy begins when new life is stirring inside... when a tiny heartbeat is heard for the very first time, and a playful kick reminds her that she is never alone." - Author Unknown
Alina Renert Photography l Maternity
Alina Renert Photography l Maternity
Alina Renert Photography l Maternity
Alina Renert Photography l Maternity
Alina Renert Photography l Maternity
Alina Renert Photography l Maternity
Alina Renert Photography l Maternity
]]>"A baby makes love stronger, the days shorter, the nights longer, savings
smaller, and a home happier" - Unknown
I loved working with Shalya! Perfect squishy baby soft skin, ten perfect fingers and toes, beautiful eyes (when
she allowed me to gaze into them) and the best little sleeper! While I worked to capture this cutie, mommy and
daddy were able to take some time and relax. Even though I insisted they both get some shut eye, they enjoyed
just sitting back and relaxing for the first time in a week. Oh, while in the studio, Shalya turned exactly one
week old. Celebrating first milestones already!
There was no crying or fussing, just a sweet baby girl. Shalya's mommy and daddy are huge Blackhawks
fans, so we decided to incorporate their love of hockey with their new love for their beautiful little girl. There is
no denying how smitten her daddy was with her. It's hard to miss how he couldn't stop smiling with her in
his arms.
Overall a beautiful family and I'm so happy to have been able to capture these special moment for them.
Congratulations again on your little princess!
Alina Renert Photography - Newborn
Alina Renert Photography - Newborn
Alina Renert Photography l Teen Portraits
Alina Renert Photography l Teen Portraits
Alina Renert Photography l Teen Portraits
Alina Renert Photography l Teen Portraits
Alina Renert Photography l Teen Portraits
Alina Renert Photography l Teen Portraits
Alina Renert Photography l Teen Portraits
Alina Renert Photography l Teen Portraits
Alina Renert Photography l Teen Portraits
Alina Renert Photography l Teen Portraits
Alina Renert Photography l Teen Portraits
Alina Renert Photography l Teen Portraits
Now a few outtakes from the session....
Alina Renert Photography l Teen Portraits
Alina Renert Photography l Teen Portraits
Alina Renert Photography l Teen Portraits
]]>These are the worlds I can't get out of my head when I think of this maternity session. Vicky just a beautiful, glowing mom who makes pregnancy look so darn easy! We decided on a sunset beach session at Gillson Beach in Wilmette. Totally comfortable in her skin, sporting a perfect tiny little belly with ZERO stretchmarks (mind you this is her second pregnancy).
As we settled on the beach, Vicky was simply carefree standing there half naked (good thing we were at the beach) with onlookers trying to see what this long dress was all about. She simply just smiled and basked in the moment.
As we moved onto the theater stage, little to our knowledge a theater company was running rehearsals of "Annie Get Your Gun". Their jaws simply dropped as they watched us make Vicky into a fairy butterfly princess of sorts with the gown. We also benefited as we worked on the session we had a full musical performance :)
As the sun was setting, we returned to the beach for some of my favorite silhouettes!!
Alina Renert Photography l Maternity
Alina Renert Photography l Maternity
Alina Renert Photography l Maternity
Alina Renert Photography l Maternity
Alina Renert Photography l Maternity
Alina Renert Photography l Maternity
Alina Renert Photography l Maternity
Alina Renert Photography l Maternity
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Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
I teamed up with Yuliya Ryvkina Photography and the very talented make-up artist Gianna of Gianna Mia Make Up to capture some modeling head-shots for our model, Anastasia.
The week leading up to our session, horrible thunderstorms had been predicted. We carefully monitored the weather and were lucky enough to have a great 75 degree day, only by the time we arrived on location within an hour the temperature had dropped a good 10-15 degrees and a we were welcomed with a wall of fog. Anastasia was such a trooper, wearing only a light summer dress and never complaining about the cold.
Yuliya and I decided to take one location, one model, similar settings and see the how differently we view subjects, locations, framing and of course editing. The results are exactly what we imaged and we each love our sessions and each others.
Head on over to Yuliya Ryvkina Photography blog to see her version of this session :)
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
]]>The day before our scheduled cake smash, I received a message and a picture of Tori's cake, which had melted and lopsided!!! This is why I always recommend Mariano's for cakes, because without questions, they re-did the cake and had it ready for thing in the morning! Tori is a serious baby, but seriously adorable none the less! She REALLY made us work for smiles :)
I know for a fact that Tori really really likes balloons and anything shiny, for example the weight for the balloons was Tori's favorite. Also a fan of pearls and jewelry, but can you blame a girl for liking her accessories?
The cake was delicious and we were off to start our bubble bath, only Tori wasn't having it. Poor little one really didn't enjoy the water so we didn't push it, but we did manage the most adorable crying face NEXT to the tub ever. It's an outtake I don't usually share, but even when crying she's still so very very cute.
Happy 1'st Birthday Tori!!!
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
The cutest outtake ever!
Rose, is an absolute sweetheart! A total natural in front of the camera, full of smiles and laughs. When it was time for cake, she drove straight into it, but she wasn't the only one. Her daddy kept sneaking pieces too, so it must have been good cake! Rose had been getting over a cold, and we were worried about doing the bubble bath, first and foremost safety and well being is always my priority. In the end, we heated the water as best as we could and Rose loved it! So happy we decided to go through with the bubble bath as they turned out so cute!!
Happy 1'st Birthday Rose!
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
I honestly do not think there was a single person who didn't enjoy themselves. There was dancing, games and delicious food. DJ Johnny had the kids, jumping, dancing and screaming with joy. The fog machine and blaster were a neat touch and allowed for some fun creative photos.
A great party over all and a wonderful family!
Mazol Tov Elan!
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
]]>There are times, when people come into your life to teach you something, to open your eyes and to show you
strength. I honestly, believe that I was meant to meet Amita and her beautiful growing family. Having
children isn't easy for everyone, and the one who struggle a little, are more blessed and appreciative of their
miracles.
Amita and Ramesh are truly blessed with Arushi and Ariana. Born premature on January 17, 2014 instead of
their due date of April 2nd, these miracle girls fought their way to their mommy and daddy.
Usually when you work with first time parents, they are nervous and a little frantic during sessions,
especially with twins. But Amita and Ramesh, were completely calm and simply enjoying the moment with
their beautiful little girls.
I am beyond happy and honored to have been able to capture these precious family moments. I cannot wait to
see them grow and change into amazing little mama mini me's!! :)
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
A few outtakes from the end of the session...this is how you know the session is over :)
Alina Renert Photography
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Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
]]>Back in December, I had donated a session to NLVS (New Life Volunteering Society) during a charity event. They are a Free Clinic that provides health services to thousands of patients. It was a silent auction, and Carolyne won!!
The setting was Meson Sabika in Naperville. Very pretty venue with an outdoor garden and pond that I made sure to take advantage of on a beautiful Saturday.
I had asked Carolyne how she and Jerry had met and was told a cute story of how 5 1/2 years ago he approached her offering her chocolate during a social event in LA, of course she couldn't resist and the two ended up chatting. The rest, is history.
You could feel the love in the room as Carolyne was being showered with love and attention.
Congratulations again and the best to you and Jerry!
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
MAZOL TOV!
]]>Shane loved running around and picking up dandelions to blow in the wind. Unknowingly to me when I asked him to have fun and run around with no reservations he ran into a GIANT pond like puddle we couldn't have seen! Poor little guy started to cry and get upset. But like a real little man he shook it off and gave me more smiles at the family's home.
I had such a great time capturing this family's precious moments!
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
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Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
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Alina Renert Photography
Alina Renert Photography
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Alina Renert Photography
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One child is engrossed in Micky Mouse Clubhouse, guess which one? The other enjoyed building and a domino trail to knock down.
All while my ''munchkin'' watched and ''guarded'' me from the kiddos. She's one jealous pup.
Lifestyle - Alina Renert Photography
Lifestyle - Alina Renert Photography
]]>Maria is glowing with happiness and excitement to start her new chapter with Alex. You can tell just how head over heels in love these two are by simply being in the same room with them.
Wishing them both all the happiness and a beautiful Wedding Day to come.
Alina Renert Event Photography
Alina Renert Event Photography
Alina Renert Event Photography
Alina Renert Event Photography
Alina Renert Event Photography
Alina Renert Event Photography
Alina Renert Event Photography
Alina Renert Event Photography
Alina Renert Event Photography
Alina Renert Event Photography
Alina Renert Event Photography
Alina Renert Event Photography
Alina Renert Event Photography
Alina Renert Event Photography
Alina Renert Event Photography
Joni is an accomplished, actress, playwright, a published author, motivational speaker and even a superb painter! She is a jack of all trades and a true master of all :)
Come see her new play "Stoop Time" at the Greenhouse Theater, in Chicago. Opening night is July 19, 2014 at 7:30 pm!! Explore some of her work and get to know her better at: http://joniarredia.com/
I wish you the best of luck in ALL your many endeavors and I do hope I'll have a chance to catch your play on opening night!
Chicago Portrait Photographer l Alina Renert Photography
Chicago Portrait Photographer l Alina Renert Photography
Chicago Portrait Photographer l Alina Renert Photography
Chicago Portrait Photographer l Alina Renert Photography
Check out those shoes!
Chicago Portrait Photographer l Alina Renert Photography
"Stoop Time" By Joni Arredia & Jacqueline Stone
Chicago Portrait Photographer l Alina Renert Photography
Opening Night: July 19, 2014 at Greenhouse Theater, Chicago at 7:30 pm! Don't be late :)
Chicago Portrait Photographer l Alina Renert Photography
Chicago Portrait Photographer l Alina Renert Photography
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Chicago Maternity Photographer l Alina Renert Photography
Chicago Maternity Photographer l Alina Renert Photography
Chicago Maternity Photographer l Alina Renert Photography
Chicago Maternity Photographer l Alina Renert Photography
Chicago Maternity Photographer l Alina Renert Photography
Chicago Maternity Photographer l Alina Renert Photography
Chicago Maternity Photographer l Alina Renert Photography
Chicago Maternity Photographer l Alina Renert Photography
Chicago Maternity Photographer l Alina Renert Photography
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Sassy Locks did a wonderful job on Vivian's personalized onesie, diaper cover and headband!
Leave Vivian some <3!
You are simply too cute for words!
What a beautiful family!
Love Love Love :)
It was a perfect day for outdoor pictures and their pup was a superb little model too! We were able to utilize the clubhouse in their subdivision along with some of its amenities. I loved the idea of doing a family shoot together before the all move abroad, with so many new adventures ahead of them they'll have something to remember Chicago and the US by.
It was a pleasure and I wish you the best of luck in all your new adventures!
Sometimes baby tricks that I use on little kids work on adults too :)
Absolutely gorgeous!
Stunning young lady!
She must get it from her beautiful mother!
It took a few minutes to get some true smiles, but once she warmed up she was full of smiles and expressions! My little blue chair was a brand new purchase and she adored it! Didn't want to come off of it and we actually have to ''sneak'' it away when she wasn't looking. :P
When it came time to the Cake Smash - I'm always a little fearful that some kids just don't like cake or better yet do not like getting messy. SHOCKER! Sassy Locks made the adorable personalized onesie with Delilah and the #1 for her 1'st birthday complete with pink ruffles on her little behind :) She rocked all her outfits!
Enjoy and don't forget to leave some love for this adorable Birthday Girl!
One child...so much personality!
Cutest cake smasher ever!
was given plenty of little smiles, had the occasional tongue sticking out and even some fully awake smiles too!
They slept and were absolutely wonderful, every photographers dream. Erica, you're an amazing woman,
mother. I absolutely admire you for everything that you're doing and setting to accomplish. Alex is one lucky
man to have you.
All these little details just melt my heart! Those lashes, little lips, ten perfect fingers and toes!
She was a little sneaky :) Whenever I thought she was sleeping, she'd open her eyes and stick out her tongue for me.
But these beautiful eyes....I'm so glad she allowed me to capture them.
Nothing sweeter than the bond between sisters.
Sleep little princesses :)
Who loves mommy's kisses!?!
These girls will grow up surrounded with so much love!
Sweet dreams Leah & Naomi - I cannot wait to see you again!
Not much has changed a year later accept that they are still adorable, handsome and beautiful and when you earn their smiles you yourself light up with joy.
Happy Birthday Josh & Emily! I look forward to seeing you grow...but no rush, really :)
Happy Birthday Isaac, grow big and strong, healthy and happy.
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- Email a funny/sweet/cute/ picture of your family to [email protected] with the subject: FAMILY PHOTO CONTEST.
- ALL voters MUST like Alina Renert Photography page in order for their 'likes' to count.
Rules:
- You must "like" and share Alina Renert Photography.
- "Like" Sassy Locks.
- Like and Comment on the original post that you have liked and shared.
- Your baby must be least 3 months old at the time of the session. (Does not apply to already booked sessions).
- Must sign a model release.
You will receive TWO 8x10 prints, a personalized outfit made by Sassy Locks to keep!
"Like" and share this contest with your friends for a chance to win. I will be choosing TWO winners randomly on 2/22. Contest ends on 11:59pm on 2/21.
Good luck everyone
I'm always so excited when I'm contacted for maternity photos, they are my favorite sessions. The bond between a mother to be and her growing belly is a beautiful site to witness. I was instantly drawn to Erica as we chatted on the phone of all the possibilities for her session. She's one incredible woman, just as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside. Erica expressed the importance of wanting outdoor snow images at Humboldt Park and I had prayed for snow for two weeks...as the days approached and the snow started back up unfortunately Erica was placed on bed rest. Walking around Humboldt Park was now out of the question as her and her babies safety always comes first. We decided to stay indoors at her mother’s house and I was welcomed with beautiful large windows and amazing bookcase full of colorful books! The confidence that Erica exudes and her contagious smile made me want to never put my camera down. We were lucky enough that the snow was fluffy and it wasn't horribly freezing out, so we took advantage and went outside to the backyard to capture those few special snow images that Erica wanted so much! The ground was uneven and thankfully ONLY I fell 3 times while Erica maintained upright on both feet the entire time :)
I cannot wait to meet these two sweet little girls who I hope are just as beautiful and vibrant as their mama.
How does one see this beautiful in home library and not want to capture it?
Perfect reading material for the mama to be.
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There is so much love and joy between these four it's contagious! Not a single image was taken without a laugh and an ab workout.
This image sums it up - the comedian in the family!
Photo credit: Claudiu Voichin Photography
1. I was born on April 21, 1986…only five days prior to the Chernobyl Power plant eruption in Chernobyl, Ukraine. I was born in Odessa, which is 331 miles away but none the less acid rains, especially in April took a toll on my dad’s hair shortly after I was born. My dad’s too sexy for his hair…that’s why it’s no longer there. (Sorry daddy).
2. I moved to Chicago when I was 7 ½ years old, I didn’t see my mom and brother for 4 months since they left for America before my dad and did.
3. I hated English! I wanted nothing to do with it. (Hanging head in embarrassment)…I learned most of my conversational English skills from watching Barney. Yes…Barney as in the giant purple dinosaur.
4. I’m deathly afraid of spiders and clowns….both thanks to my older brother.
5. When I was little I wanted to be a model and an actress. My parents let me go through everything while spending thousands of dollars on workshops/agencies/photographs...etc. Went through the whole process to be invited by an agent to move out to L.A. to pursue things further…to only decide it wasn’t my path in life.
6. I’m a huge animal lover, the longest I’ve been without a pet is 4 months when my dog in Odessa ran away by accident.
7. I graduated High School a semester early and enjoyed life to the fullest until starting college.
8. I worked full time throughout college
9. I have been tied-up and held at gun-point during a bank robber in 2008.
10. I quit work and almost dropped out of college to take care of my sick grandfather.
11. I went to Israel two summers in a row and cannot wait to go back again.
12. I ran away from life in 2010 to study Photography in Florence, Italy. Best decision ever!
13. I met my husband on Facebook…even though we knew most of each other’s friends and have been to several group gatherings together with no knowledge of one another.
14. My husband proposed after 13 months of dating and we were married 13 months after that.
15. I hated the process of planning a wedding! I didn’t even cry when I found my dress… (Which I loved!)
16. My goal is to be a full-time photographer; I have a 5 year plan.
17. I’m a step-mom to a wonderful 8 year old.
18. I cannot wait to have more kids and be a mommy. (Even though it scares me!)
19. I’m OBSESSED with the color lime green. I’m not sure when the obsession began but my room is lime green, cell phone, iPad…I’m dying to get the lime green Jeep.
20. I want to travel the world and take at least one image to make a collage of every place I’ve ever visited.
21. I love dance, all forms of it. Sadly I’m not very coordinated though. Therefore, I began a Dance Photography Project. Currently on the ballet stage and hoping to move into more genres eventually. My end goal for the project is to show case the images for auction and to donate the proceeds to a children’s research hospital. Check out the project as it stands so far at, Life on Pointe - http://www.alinarenert.com/dance
Photo credit: Claudiu Voichin Photography
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Preparations for the Day of:
Have baby fully fed for 6 hours leading up to the session. Keep baby awake and alert for an hour before, this will make sure they are ready to sleep and better your chances of getting the sleepy poses.
Time Management:
Keep in mind that babies in their first few weeks of life feed constantly, especially if you are breast feeding. Allow enough time to feed, change, and provide plenty of snuggles. A happy baby leads to a happy session. Much like "happy wife=happy life" :)
What should your baby(s) wear:
Between the baby shower gifts and the cute clothes you just couldn't pass up at the store, your newborn probably has a very large wardrobe. When choosing an outfit for his first photo shoot, remember that simple is best. Bold patterns and designs can be distracting.
If you want to also get family photos taken in addition to your baby's portraits, make sure everyone is dressed in clothing with similar tones. Your outfits don't need to be matchy matchy precisely, but they should coordinate well enough that no one looks out of place in the picture.
A baby in their "Birthday Suit" has become the most preferred options parents. Although, some parents draw the line at a photo of their newborn in only a diaper, while others have no problem with a photo featuring a totally nude newborn cradled against his father's bare chest. It's all about preference, there is no wrong or right. Choose the option of the happy medium that you are most comfortable with.
Poses and Props
A baby under three months of age can only be safely left unattended when lying down, so you're going to be limited in the types of poses available for your pictures. Therefore, many parents decide to add interest to their baby photos by incorporating props into the some of the shot.
Managing Expectations
As parent of a newborn, you're probably still struggling to get into a routine with your baby. Try to keep expectations for your child's first photo shoot manageable. It's not the end of the world if your baby ends up fussy or sleepy on picture day. In fact, you may end up with a portrait of a sleeping angel that's more precious than the perfectly posed shot you had imagined.
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