2012 was an amazing year for me–personally and professionally! Not only did I marry my love of 11 years, but I also got a new (dream!) job as an Assistant Professor of English at Oakton Community College.

However, because of these wonderful things and because of my attempt to find that thing called balance, 2012 was also the year that my photography business had to change a bit. There was a time when I was shooting 30+ weddings a year in Chicago. Now, I’m cutting back significantly. I can’t give up photography completely because, the truth is, I still really love it. So, I’m shooting fewer weddings (like 10-12 a year) and focusing more on the couples whose lives I get to be a part of. This year has proven that this is a change for the better. Not only do I get to be more selective about the weddings I do shoot–meaning I get to work with the very best and kindest and creative couples–but I also have more energy and time to devote to the clients I do work with. I’ve been able to fall back in love with wedding photography all over again. As a result, I think I’m doing my best work yet!

Also, because I’m refining my business focus, I’ve decided that something had to go. And, because it was the most stress logistically, that something is my boudoir marathons. However, I’ll be happy to refer any of my clients to other local photographers who are doing wonderful boudoir work! From here on out, though, I will no longer be offering boudoir photography services. I’ll now be focusing on clients who–for the most part–keep their clothes on.

All of this said, I’m still behind the camera enough to keep me–and my many loyal clients–happy! I’m shooting couples that are engaged, couples that are getting married, and couples that are expecting their first baby. I’m shooting babies and toddlers and big kids. I’m shooting families that I’ve seen grow for years. I’m shooting quartets and brides and bellies, and I’m doing it all at a pace that allows me to honor my clients and my career.

So, here’s a look back at some of my favorite photography moments of 2012! And thank you to all of the wonderful clients you see in these pictures, all of whom make it impossible for me to give up photography for good. Thank you for letting me be part of your lives, and thank you for being a part of mine!

Happy 2013, everyone! It’s going to be a good one.

Mollie and Brandon are twins. So, not only do they get to share most everything in their lives together, they also got to share their bar/bat mitzvahs!

These two celebrated in a big way: in the Stadium Club at US Cellular Field! We got to do portraits on the field a couple of days before the party. Though it was windy, cold, and rainy, Mollie and Brandon were so excited to be on the field, they made the most of it!

The following Saturday, this lovely family joined all of their loved ones for one heck of a party! Here are some photos from their celebration.

When two just-turned-13-year-olds ask for a jumping photo, I oblige!

It’s party time!

I’ve worked with Sarah, Craig, and their sweet son, Frankie, for several years. They are one of the dear families that I’ve photographed many, many times. We originally scheduled a shoot with just the three of them, but then we decided to add in more family! You know what they say: the more, the merrier.

Well, that’s usually true, anyway. However, when that “more” includes a few little ones, things can get a little… interesting.

Luckily, all of these adults were wonderfully helpful and patient. Patience is SO important when photographing little ones. So, because the grown-ups were willing to help, we got some lovely photos (despite the wind, the cold, the tears, and the crackers).

What three people in this photo are thinking: “Just take the picture before he cries.” What one is thinking: “This is a pretty tasty cracker.”

Love this guy. Can you believe I photographed him when he was just an itty bitty babe?

When all else fails, throw stuff!

Parents deserve some camera time, too!

And grandparents (who are about to celebrate their 40th)!