Mommy Goggles

Mommy Goggles (noun or adjective): When used as an adjective, the word describes a photograph that is technically imperfect but nonetheless cherished by the mother of the photograph's subject, who, under the influence of the mommy goggles (noun) convinces herself that it is a far better photograph than it actually is.

Yes, this is a total mommy goggles shot (in addition to being really old), but I just rediscovered it and I love it. My baby looks like such a baby here, whereas now he is a rapidly stretching two-and-a-half year old, who says things like "No, I don't want to eat peas" and "Hey guys, you want to sit next to me?" Luckily, his gigi (the white blanket) is still a must-have item.

A letter to Fall

Dear Fall:

I know. Summer's days are numbered. The blessed heat and sunshine that I love so much are on their way out, and you, with your crisp leaves and wild winds, are on your way in. That's cool. I really do think you're pretty and all. It's just that, well, you can't fool this Florida girl. I know what you really bring. You bring cold and wet and dark. In short. You bring Winter.

But that's okay. Because there's still a little more time. Time for sitting on the front steps with my guys. Drawing chalk elephants and baseballs on the sidewalk. Time for bare feet and short sleeves and cheese faces. And even once we run out of time and you come along with your bright oranges and your vibrant yellows and your Pure Michigan commercials (those really are the best commercials), I'll still have my guys, and eventually (although it may be many months), my friend Summer will return.

Give my regards to Michigan,

Katie

Baby Rocket ~ Northbrook Newborn Photographer

Meet Baby Rocket! Sure, sure. His name is not really Rocket, but his cousin Jackson christened him Baby Rocket before he was born and the nickname has sort of stuck. The thing is, I think it's pretty appropriate, because this little guy was fired up, ready to go during our entire shoot. Of course, Derek (that's his real name) is already seven weeks old, so you can't blame him for wanting to see the world and take it all in. And you know what? I thought it was great. An awake baby with no desire to curl up and let me mold him is WAY out of my comfort zone. I love a challenge! And the results? Well, I think they're pretty cool.

Introducing the Fall Mini-Session ~ Chicago Family Photographer

Believe it or not, the holidays are right around the corner. Well, okay, we've got Fall first and, hopefully, a little bit more Summer, but the holiday season will be here before you know it!

Now is the perfect time to start thinking about holiday portraits. Not only does Fall bring us the most lovely natural backdrops for portraits, but I am also introducing a Fall portrait special that is sure to get you in the holiday mood.

INTRODUCING THE FALL MINI-SESSION

What is the Fall Mini-Session, you ask? Why it is the perfect way to:

• Update your family portraits
• Get a head start on those holiday cards
• Guarantee you have the cutest cards on the block (you know you want to)
• Stock up on holiday gifts that the grandparents (and aunts and uncles will love)
• And do it all at a price that fits your budget

For a select few days this Fall, I will be offering 20-30 minute family sessions at a pre-determined location, designed to create adorable and unique family portraits. Because they are "mini-sessions," they will be offered at a reduced price (and will include some extra holiday goodies, too!)

Your $75 Session Fee Includes:

• A 20-30 minute family session
• 10-15 fully edited images presented in a password-protected online gallery
• 1 box of custom 5x7 holiday cards using your beautiful family portraits
• 10% off all other prints and gift item orders placed within the two-week gallery period

Two Session Dates are Available:

• Saturday, October 23 at Independence Grove in Libertyville
• Sunday, October 24 at Bonner Heritage Farm in Lindenhurst

For more information or to reserve your session, email me at KathrynShoresPhotography@Yahoo.com. Act fast because space is limited, then pass this exciting opportunity along to your family and friends!

Max.Waking.Up.

Indulge me in sharing a few of my own little guy waking up this morning. Of course, he has his own blog, but sometimes he's just so cute, I have to share him with a wider audience.

Clifton & Alicia ~ Lake Forest Family Photographer

I met up with Clifton and Alicia this weekend in Lake Forest. Really, I was there because of their mom. She has been nominated for a very cool award (I won't tell you any more because I don't want to jinx her chances) and needed some new family pictures to submit for the award.

While we were at it, though, I turned my camera on these two gorgeous teens. I had such a great time with this family because they had so much fun with each other. Seriously, I might be wrong, but I think these two teenagers actually LIKE their parents. WHAT? I know. That is crazy talk. You'll have to take my word for it.

Thanks for having me out to your home and allowing me to capture your beautiful family, guys. To quote Clifton, "wup wup wup wup wup!"

I Scream, You Scream

We all scream for ice cream!

Evie

Evie is one of Max (that's my son)'s best friends. She and Max share the same wild and crazy personality, but I caught her looking soulful at the fair last night. Love her.