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The Kidographer

Contemporary Family, Kids, School and Event Photographers- Midwest & West Coast
  • portraits
  • 2024 Chicago Fall Mini Sessions
  • Chicago Holiday Minis 2024
  • Children's Commercial Photographer
  • Custom Cake Smash
  • parties & events
  • ceremonies
  • graduation & senior portraits
  • pets
  • about us
  • "In a Box" Mini Photo Sessions
  • portrait pricing
  • contact
  • blog
  • Who we work with
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Strawberry Shortcake- Chicago Cake Smash

Alyssa Govea September 18, 2021

Interested in a cake smash, but looking to do something a little different? We have you covered! Whether you want to do a strawberry shortcake instead of a traditional birthday cake, spaghetti instead of cake, a more creative or simple set up, outdoors instead of in the studio- we would love to accommodate you. Check out our cake smash page for inspiration, and contact us with any questions and to set up your appointment.

In Studio Portraits, babies, toddler, cake smash, Children's Photography, Kids, Family Photography Tags the kidographer chicago, the windy city, chicago cake smash, cake smash, first birthday photography, chicago birthday photoshoot, baby photography chicago, chicago kids photography, chicago kids photographer, chicago children’s photography, chicago children's photographer, chicago portrait studio, lincoln park photography
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Balloons, Cake, Rainbows Oh My!

Alyssa Govea September 11, 2021

Come on over for a cake smash first birthday photo session! We love having the little cutie pies come in, making a special setup for them, and photographing them smashing their cake! As stated before, your LO gets to have a custom theme setup and cake to match as well as a 30 minute session and a private gallery to view your photos online. For more information, click here. Contact us with any questions or to book your LO’s session.

In Studio Portraits, babies, toddler, cake smash, Children's Photography, Kids, Location Shoot, Family Photography Tags the kidographer chicago, chicago children’s photography, chicago children's photographer, chicago kids photography, chicago kids photographer, chicago cake smash, cake smash, chicago birthday photoshoot, first birthday photography, chicago portrait studio, studio
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Little Cuties- Chicago Children’s Photography

Alyssa Govea September 4, 2021

Looking to have a photography session for your child with multiple different backdrops or a mixture of indoor/outdoor setups? We would be happy to figure out a session and package that would work best for you! Contact us with your inquiry, and we’ll work with you to figure something out. Feel free to browse our established packages here, otherwise, you can contact us here.

In siblings, Studio Portraits, Children's Photography, Kids, At Home Portraits, Location Shoot, Family Photography Tags the kidographer chicago, chicago children’s photography, chicago children's photographer, chicago kids photography, chicago kids photographer, chicago portrait studio, studio, location shoot, lincoln park photography
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Summer Family Portraits- Chicago Family Photographer

Alyssa Govea August 17, 2021

Looking to take advantage of the few weeks left of summer for family or children portraits? We have you covered! We love taking advantage of the warm weather to head to some of our favorite spots. By the lake, at the park- we have the perfect spot in mind. Take a look at our portrait options to find the best choice for you, or contact us with any questions. Ready to book? Contact us to schedule your session.

In siblings, brothers, Studio Portraits, babies, sisters siblings, toddler, Children's Photography, sisters, Kids, Pets, Dogs, Location Shoot, Family Photography Tags the kidographer chicago, chicago family photographers, chicago family photography, chicago kids photography, chicago kids photographer, chicago children’s photography, chicago children's photographer, location shoot, chicago portrait studio, baby photography chicago, lincoln park photography
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Chicago First Birthday Cake Smash!

Alyssa Govea July 11, 2021

Make your little one’s first birthday one to definitely remember with a cake smash! Your LO gets an adorable set to use for the session along with a super cute cake to smash- all of which you get to pick the theme for. It’s so fun to see so many smiles, giggles, and obviously cake smashing too! For some more information on our cake smashes, click here. Contact us with questions or to set up your appointment.

In Studio Portraits, babies, toddler, cake smash, Children's Photography, Kids, Pets, Dogs, Location Shoot, Family Photography Tags the kidographer chicago, chicago children’s photography, chicago children's photographer, baby photography chicago, first birthday photography, chicago birthday photoshoot, chicago portrait studio, chicago cake smash, cake smash
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Hello Little One!

Alyssa Govea July 4, 2021

Welcoming a new baby home and into the family is an amazing feeling. Why not capture those early moments with some commemorative photos? Our newborn sessions are done in studio, on location, or at home. We'll focus not only on your baby, but the whole family too! In addition, baby can be awake or asleep, whatever works best. For more information, click here. You can contact us with any questions and to book your newborn session.

In siblings, brothers, Studio Portraits, babies, newborn portraits, sisters siblings, toddler, Children's Photography, sisters, Kids, At Home Portraits, Pets, Dogs, Location Shoot, Family Photography Tags the kidographer chicago, chicago children’s photography, chicago children's photographer, baby photography chicago, at home newborn photography, chicago newborn photographer, chicago portrait studio, chicago family photographers, chicago family photography
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Happy, Happy Birthday!

Alyssa Govea June 27, 2021

Get the LO out for a special birthday activity! Come into our studio to enjoy a fun cake smash session with a customizable theme and a yummy cake to smash. Let us capture the birthday kiddo’s smiles and giggles, and tearing apart that cake! We can help if you need some theme ideas too! For more information click here. Or to set up an appointment or if you have any questions contact us.

In siblings, brothers, Studio Portraits, babies, toddler, cake smash, Children's Photography, Kids, Family Photography Tags the kidographer chicago, chicago cake smash, cake smash, baby photography chicago, first birthday photography, chicago birthday photoshoot, chicago portrait studio, chicago children’s photography, chicago children's photographer, chicago kids photography, chicago kids photographer
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Time to Celebrate the First Year!- Chicago First Birthday Cake Smash Photography

Alyssa Govea May 29, 2021

It’s that time for your LO to turn one! Make it extra special by planning a cake smash! Create adorable and fun moments on a cute birthday set up made just for your LO, and let them smash away at their birthday cake! Our team works with you to pick out the perfect option for you and your family. We love making your set look amazing, as well as taking breathtaking photos of your birthday boy or girl! For more information check out our cake smash page here. Contact us with any questions and to set up your photo session.

In Studio Portraits, babies, toddler, cake smash, Children's Photography, Kids, Pets, Dogs, Family Photography Tags the kidographer chicago, chicago birthday photoshoot, first birthday photography, birthday photographer, baby photography chicago, chicago portrait studio, chicago cake smash, cake smash, chicago children's photographer, chicago kids photography, chicago kids photographer, kids photography, kids photographer
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Oh Baby!- Chicago Newborn Photographer

Alyssa Govea May 14, 2021

Your little one is all settled in, and now you can’t wait to show them off to the world! We have you covered with our loving newborn sessions. Instead of complicated posing and props, we focus on your bundle of joy and family. Keep things simple and sweet here at our studio, or let us come to you to capture everyone in their natural setting- at home, in the crib, together on the couch, with your furry family member, etc. We want everyone to feel comfortable while we capture your sweet moments! Contact us to set up your appointment, or click here for some more information.

In siblings, brothers, Studio Portraits, babies, teens, newborn portraits, sisters siblings, toddler, Children's Photography, sisters, Kids, Pets, At Home Portraits, Dogs, Location Shoot, Family Photography Tags the kidographer chicago, chicago kids photography, chicago kids photographer, chicago newborn photographer, newborn photographer chicago, baby photography chicago, kids photographer, kids photography, chicago family photographers, chicago portrait studio, chicago children's photographer, chicago family photography, at home, studio, at home newborn photography, lifestyle
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Mother's Day Idea- Chicago Family Photography

Alyssa Govea May 5, 2021

Let mom feel extra loved by giving her an amazing Mother's Day photoshoot with the family! Grab some cute pictures of her and the kids, by herself, with dad, or even with grandma and grandpa too. Don't forget nice weather means outdoor sessions are possible too! Click here for details about our session options or contact us for more information.

In Studio Portraits, babies, teens, siblings, brothers, newborn portraits, sisters siblings, toddler, Spring Photography, Children's Photography, sisters, Kids, Pets, At Home Portraits, Holiday Portraits, Dogs, Location Shoot, Family Photography Tags the kidographer chicago, the windy city, chicago family photographers, chicago family photography, family portraits, mom portraits, pictures with mom, mother’s day, chicago kids photography, chicago kids photographer, chicago portrait studio, photography chicago, gift idea
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Make a Special Birthday a Little Sweeter- Chicago Photographer

Alyssa Govea April 30, 2021

Got a special birthday coming up? Put the icing on the cake with a fun birthday shoot! Whether it's a 5th, 10th, 16th, or 18th birthday we'll help to make it extra amazing. Dress up, bring friends, stay in the studio, or have some fun outside, it's up to you. Contact us for more information and with any questions!

In siblings, Studio Portraits, babies, teens, sisters siblings, toddler, Cousins, Children's Photography, sisters, Kids, brothers, Pets, Dogs, Location Shoot Tags the kidographer chicago, chicago portrait studio, chicago, chicago teen photography, photography chicago, birthday photography, location shoot, fun birthday photoshoot, chicago birthday photoshoot, the windy city, chicago children's photographer, kids photographer, chicago kids photography, kids photography, chicago kids photographer, birthday photographer
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First Birthday Ready!- Chicago Cake Smash

Alyssa Govea April 4, 2021

So you decided to do first birthday photos of your little one. How about turning your photo session into a cake smash! Your little one will have an adorable session with a yummy cake to smash and a cute birthday set to match! If you are looking for a complete cuteness overload, you could even find an outfit that matches the theme you chose for the photos- like irresistible Mr. Onederful above. For more information about our cake smashes, click here. Otherwise, contact us with any questions!

In Studio Portraits, babies, toddler, cake smash, Children's Photography, Kids, Location Shoot Tags chicago cake smash, cake smash, chicago kids photography, chicago kids photographer, first birthday photography, birthday photography, chicago portrait studio, baby photography chicago
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Chicago Cake Smash!

Alyssa Govea March 25, 2021

Our cake smash sessions are our most popular photography packages. Our 30 minute session includes a cake to smash, a cute themed set, and an online gallery for your photos once they are ready! We have options for longer shoots, additional family members, additional outfits, and more. Send whatever questions you have our way, or click here for a little more information.

In Studio Portraits, babies, toddler, cake smash, Children's Photography, Kids, Location Shoot Tags chicago cake smash, cake smash, chicago kids photography, chicago kids photographer, first birthday photography, birthday photography, chicago portrait studio
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We Are Family- Family Photography in Chicago

Alyssa Govea March 18, 2021

With warmer weather settling in, are you doing some spring cleaning? Including revamping old family portraits? We have you covered! We love having family portraits in our Lincoln Park studio or on location. (Um, yes to warm, blooming, outdoor photos!) We offer a few different options that you can look at here, or you can contact us with questions.

In siblings, brothers, Studio Portraits, babies, teens, newborn portraits, sisters siblings, toddler, Children's Photography, sisters, Kids, Pets, Dogs, Location Shoot, Family Photography Tags chicago family photographer, chicago family photography, chicago portrait studio, family portraits, chicago kids photography, chicago kids photographer, location shoot, the kidographer chicago
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A Big Day!- First Birthday Photography in Chicago

Alyssa Govea March 7, 2021

A first birthday is such an exciting time to celebrate! Your little one is oh so adorable, and they aren’t so little any more. They grow up way too fast, so capture this time a little better with a fun birthday and cake smash photoshoot! We can work with you to get everything you’re looking for- cake smash pictures, family pictures, pictures of just your cutie, etc. Check out what we offer here, or contact us with any questions.

In Studio Portraits, babies, toddler, cake smash, Children's Photography, Kids, Location Shoot Tags chicago cake smash, cake smash, chicago portrait studio, photography chicago, chicago children's photographer, first birthday photography, birthday photography, kids photographer, kids photography, baby photography chicago
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5 Tips for a Stress-Free Family Session

Alyssa Govea February 28, 2021

Taking family pictures isn’t easy. For one, having photo sessions with children requires a lot of patience. If an upcoming family photo shoot is giving you sleepless nights, check out these 5 tips for a stress-free family session!

It’s Okay to be Candid

Taking the “perfect” shot for a family with young children can be challenging. While it’s great to have some posed photos of the family all together, don’t be afraid to be yourself in front of the camera! 

If someone in your family has a funny joke to tell, let them share it to get everyone laughing. If your kids want to run around to get some energy out, this can be a great way to start the session (and it makes it easier for them to want to sit still later!). 

Additionally, below are some games kids can play during the photography session that can make memorable shots:

● Bear crawl, skipping, and running races

● Follow the leader

● Freeze dance

● Tickle fight

Pick a Location You’re Comfortable At

While it might not initially seem like the location will impact your stress levels, it actually can! Shooting in a location that you’re excited about and feel comfortable in is important, because it’s one less thing you’ll be worrying about during the session. 

For example, if you have a favorite park in Chicago to take the kids to, let’s shoot there! If you prefer the comfort of your own home, we can come to you. We’re also happy to suggest some of our favorite locations if you need suggestions.

The location sets the scene and the mood for the session, so make sure it’s somewhere you’re looking forward to using!


Set Reasonable Expectations

Having realistic expectations before going into your photo sessions can minimize your stress levels. For instance, a shy preschooler might do better with regular sessions than short mini sessions while a toddler who typically naps in the afternoon will likely be cranky if you try to schedule a shoot during that time. 

On the other hand, a one-year-old baby may not tolerate long sessions and several outfit changes. However, they may like an easy-going session with attention grabbers like a wagon ride. 

Consider Your Wardrobe

The right wardrobe can transform ordinary pictures into extraordinary ones. We can guide you depending on your photo session scenery, what you intend to do with the pictures, and the season. Some things to consider when choosing your outfits include:

● Location: How you dress for a sunset session in a park will vary from a winter session in the field.

● Color Scheme: Choose one patterned outfit for your family and then blend it with coordinating colors.

● Trying on Your Outfits: Ensure everyone tries their photo session clothes before showing up at the location to feel confident in how they look.


Relax at the Photoshoot

Handle unexpected things like surprise rainfall and stained clothes during your session calmly. Chances are, we likely have a backup plan or ways to shoot around distracting elements! 

When you are stressed, your entire family can become anxious and suddenly feel stiff as they stand in front of the camera. If something goes wrong, take a deep breath and smile! Also, try to enjoy the process even when things don’t happen the way you were expecting.

Your family photography session should be memorable and enjoyable. Try out the above tips to have a stress-free photo shoot during your next session.

In siblings, brothers, Studio Portraits, babies, teens, newborn portraits, sisters siblings, toddler, Children's Photography, sisters, Kids, Pets, Dogs, Location Shoot, Family Photography Tags the kidographer chicago, kids photographer, chicago kids photography, kids photography, chicago family photographers, chicago family photographer, photographing kids: tips, chicago portrait studio, chicago children's photographer, 5 tips for a stress-free family session
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Celebrate Spring Birthdays!

Alyssa Govea February 19, 2021

They’re coming around the corner, so schedule your little one’s spring first birthday cake smash soon! Included in our cake smash session is a cute set, cake to smash, and an online gallery of your high resolution photos from the shoot. We have our cake smashes happening in our Lincoln Park studio at the moment, but warmer weather means outdoor cake smashes are coming back soon! Click here for more information regarding our cake smashes, and contact us with any questions or scheduling.

In Studio Portraits, babies, toddler, Spring Photography, cake smash, Children's Photography, Kids, Location Shoot Tags the kidographer chicago, first birthday photography, birthday photography, kids photographer, kids photography, chicago kids photography, chicago kids photographer, chicago cake smash, cake smash, chicago portrait studio
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We Love First Birthday Cake Smashes!

Alyssa Govea February 5, 2021

Make your little one’s first birthday extra special and memorable with a cake smash! We love working with families to come up with an adorable set to use for your session. Grab some ideas from the internet or even Pinterest for a theme, pick out an outfit (or a couple), and we’ll take care of the rest. We’ll have the set ready for you once you arrive along with a cake to smash. We’ll walk you through the plan for your cake smash session, and we’ll take some awesome photos of the birthday guy or gal! It’s so fun to see so many smiles, giggles, and obviously cake smashing too!
For some more information about our cake smashes, click here. Contact us with any questions or to set up a cake smash with your little one.

In Studio Portraits, babies, toddler, cake smash, Children's Photography, Kids Tags the kidographer chicago, kids photographer, chicago kids photography, kids photography, chicago portrait studio, chicago cake smash, cake smash, chicago kids photographer, baby photography chicago, first birthday photography, birthday photography
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Too Cute!

Alyssa Govea January 30, 2021

Start off the new year with some wonderful, new family portraits! Capture the smiles, the giggles, the sparkle in everyone’s eyes. Choose from a whole family session, just focus on the kids, get some photos of your new addition to your family, or even snap some pictures with your furry friend! We would love to put something together that works for what you’re looking for. Click here for information on some of the options we offer. Contact us to set up an appointment or with any questions.

In siblings, brothers, Studio Portraits, babies, teens, newborn portraits, sisters siblings, toddler, Children's Photography, sisters, Kids, Pets, Dogs, Location Shoot, Family Photography Tags chicago family photographers, family portraits, kids photographer, chicago kids photography, the kidographer chicago, lincoln park photography, chicago portrait studio, chicago newborn photographer, baby photography chicago, pet portraits
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Brighten Up The Birthday!

Alyssa Govea January 23, 2021

Get the little one out of the house for a special birthday activity! Come in to enjoy a fun cake smash session with a customizable theme and a yummy cake to smash. Let us capture the birthday kiddo’s smiles and giggles, and tearing apart that cake! For more information click here. To set up an appointment or if you have any questions contact us.

In Studio Portraits, babies, toddler, cake smash, Children's Photography, Kids Tags chicago cake smash, cake smash, smash cake, chicago portrait studio, first birthday photography, birthday photography, lincoln park photography, baby photography chicago, one year old portraits
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