When Jenni emailed me asking to capture her engagement photos in Hawaii, I was obviously so excited! This jet-setting couple loves the water and thought the big island of Hawaii would make for a perfect backdrop for their engagement session! We had a great time romping around the beach at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai and I am so pleased with how beautifully their film images came out!
Congratulations you two - we can't wait for your big day!
xo, Bonphotage
Read MoreThere is just something about film that takes my breath away every time! The skin tones, the textures, the colors, the light...it is truly a magical medium. My journey with learning film and developing my own style has come along way this past year and it is so interesting to watch a visual transformation of my images. Today, I am heading to the Donny Zavala film workshop in Honolulu and was reflecting upon where my work has come thus far. I am so excited to continue this journey!
I recently had an opportunity to photograph on film at a styled editorial shoot with Cody Krogman of Cody Krogman Photography. The shoot took place at the Warwick Allerton Hotel in downtown Chicago, in their beautifully lit ballroom. All of the details were perfectly planned by Cody and Shannon of Panache and Promises.
Excited to share a few of the images I took on a Contax 645 medium format film camera. Enjoy :)
Read MoreI am SO excited to finally share this gorgeous bridal editorial recently published in Trendy Bride Magazine!
I am so EXCITED to FINALLY share the images from a fine art bridal editorial featured in Trendy Bride Magazine! Photographed with a Contax 645 with medium format film, this ethereal shoot was photographed at both the Museum of Science and Industry and Room 1520, in Chicago's trendy West Loop neighborhood.
From the Trendy Bride Feature, "For rustic minimalism, this styled shoot from Chicago, Illinois, incorporates just a few elements for a big impact, including peach blooms, a dream venue, and classic bridal style. With a whitewashed venue, it doesn’t take much to create a standout design. Neutral tones and a few romantic additions round out the look for a truly resplendent vibe.
The invitation suite is classic and simple. It features white parchment, cream-colored calligraphy and a personalized wax seal. The collection also includes the venue’s design."
Read MoreWhen Kristina called me explaining that she wanted to do a photoshoot as soon as possible because her pup was growing so quickly and she wanted to capture his puppy-hood, I was on board! I mean, could you deny Lou's ADORABLE little self?! OMG - ALL OF THE HEART EYES! You would't even know from the photos and happy smiles that it was a FREEZING Chicago day - this is really what growing, sweet family photos are all about! Enjoy!
photographed on a Contax 645 with Fuji 400H film and Portra 800 film.
xo, Bonphotage
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I keep telling myself that I am going to wait for the film scans before releasing the next wedding sneak peek, but THEN, I go through the digital images and find so many beautiful and heartfelt moments, that I cannot wait (instant satisfaction of being a hybrid shooter!) And so here I find myself again, scrolling through the beauty of Friday, January 20, 2017, when Kathryn and Matt said "I do."
January 20, 2017 may go down in history as one of the most divisive days in this country's history, but I am honored to say that I was fortunate enough to witness the kind of unity amongst humans that ensures that LOVE will always trump hate. Kathryn and Matt's day was beautiful from beginning to end..period.
Read MoreWith every wedding we do, we love taking the time to photograph all of the details to tell the whole picture of your love story. I always remind my brides to bring their cute wedding invitations to their wedding or to mail it to me in advance, so we can get all the details! With that request, often comes inquiries about my favorite invitation companies.
I recently stumbled upon Basic Invite (www.basicinvite.com) and was really impressed with their suites so I thought I'd share the news!
Aside from offering unlimited color combinations, I really liked the fact that couples are able to order a printed sample of their actual invitation before they order so they can see exactly who the invites will look and the paper quality as well! Definitely makes ordering online a little less stressful! Totally worth checking out Basic Invite's save for adorable save the date ideas too!
Read MoreLeah and Kyle both grew up in Wauconda, Illinois and every location they chose for their engagement session has sentimental value. Starting with the ice skating rink they frequent, to the antique shop where Kyle's dad has been keeping his finds collected over a lifetime, to their wedding locations - amongst the pretty cattails in the background of their family's property! Cody, of Bonphotage Photography, had a fabulous time hanging out and exploring the area for their engagement session and we are seriously swooning over their pretty pics! That light! We can't wait for your big day - congrats you two!
xo, Bonphotage
Read MoreWhen an engagement session involves pajamas, a cheese board and a Christmas tree, you know it's going to be cozy and awesome! Ana and Tony wanted their engagement session to reflect their love for the holiday season and their fun-loving relationship and I can honestly say, their engagement session accomplished all those things! Ana even had matching Christmas pajamas which Tony happily obliged to wear :) I can't wait for their wedding at the gorgeous Palmer House Hilton in downtown Chicago!
Congrats you two and enjoy this sneak peek! xo, Bonphotage
Portra 400 film scans taken on a Contax 645 and scanned and processed by Richard Photo Lab
Read MoreJackie and Barth's elegant downtown Chicago wedding was STUNNING, to say the least! The beautiful day took place in the Drake's Hotel Gold Coast room with it's rows of crystal chandeliers. Jackie looked absolutely breathtaking in a an open back, tattoo lace gown with cathedral veil when she walked down the aisle adorned with tall, large bouquets of hydrangeas and candles. Her bouquet was a mixture of green and white hydrangeas, while her bridesmaids carried white bouquets of calalillies. After emotional speeches, happy tears, and lots of dancing, the night ended with a canon of confetti for a perfect New Years Eve wedding! You don't want to miss this gorgeous affair!
Enjoy this sneak peak Jackie and Barth and congratulations on your beautiful day!
xo, Bonphotage
Read MoreWhat is more precious than new life for the new year?! Welcome to the world Lena Jane! 2016 has exceeded my expectations in so many ways and I have had the opportunity to work with so many wonderful clients. In little Lena's case, I was lucky to work with her pretty momma to photograph her bridal shower, maternity and now, her first born baby girl. It is the biggest honor to capture such momentous life moments. Now, go enjoy these precious baby toes!
Photographed on Contax 645 | Fuji 400H and Portra 400 film | thanks to Bonphotage Associate Rachel for beautifully assisting :)
xo, Bonphotage
Read MoreThey wanted snow and they wanted art, so snow and art is what they got! This sweet couple studied art and history in college and so it was only fitting to choose the stunning Art Institute in Chicago for their engagement photos! With Bexy in town from England for the holidays and the perfect sunny, bright winter day, it was a perfect time for the shoot Amanda had planning for months! I had a lovely time with them at the Art museum and Millennium park and am looking forward to their wedding in 2018! Enjoy this sneak peak and congratulations you two!
xo, Bonphotage
Read MoreIf you thought that a little snow was going to stop Katie and Dan from their winter engagement session, think again! While we patiently await the film scans, I can't wait another minute to share a sneak peek of their Chicago engagement session! After all, how much cozier and sweet can it get than big warm bear hugs, sweet smiles and knit hats and scarves?! Enjoy this sneak peek you two - we can't wait for your wedding next year!
xo, Bonphotage
Read MoreThis stunning bridal editorial shoot was inspired by wild flowers and took place at the Grotto in Portland, Oregon. I was inspired by the different shades of green found in the woods and wanted to create an ethereal, woodsy atmosphere for the photoshoot. Using medium-format film photography and a Contax 645 camera and combine with the talent of some of Portland's best, my vision became a reality!
The bride (model Jennelle Fedrizzi) wore two different looks by Sweet Caroline's, one with a black crop top and the other, a lace tattoo long sleeve beauty. Hair and makeup was natural and flowy by Glam Girl Designs owner Jenny Kerr. The shoot was featured on November 28, 2016 on Adorn Magazine and the full feature can be seen here - http://adornmagazine.com/wildflower-ethereal-bridal-portraits/.
Enjoy!
xo, Bonphotage
Read MoreI knew when James contacted me to capture the proposal he'd been planning to his love Kristin, that this one would be special. Not only had be purchased a *stunning* yellow diamond but he had also arranged to have his mother, Kristin's mother and Kristin's best friend surprise her after the proposal. You'd never know the weather was below 30 degrees based on the happy smiles on this newly engaged couple! After ice skating and stopping for hot chocolate, they headed to Milton Lee Olive Park where Kristin thought they were meeting with one of their friends. Much to her surprise (scroll down for *priceless* surprise face), James dropped to his knee and asked her to be his forever. Of course, she said YES!
Congrats you two! We can't wait to capture your wedding day :)
Read MoreThe biggest lesson I have learned as a wedding photographer is that humans are so much more alike than they are different. Every human, no matter race, religion, or ethnicity, wants to love and be loved. Every human wants to share special moments with family and loved ones. Having the honor of photographing beautiful weddings around the world of Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Hindu and non-religious couples reconfirms these truths time and time again. I am blessed to witness the warmth of love and compassion between humans of all kinds on such an intimate and beautiful day - the wedding day.
I have photographed MANY weddings and have seen a lot of beautiful ceremonies and receptions, but there are very few that literally stop me in my tracks. As I entered Maheen and Adil's reception ballroom at the historic Dearborn Inn in Michigan, my jaw literally dropped. The elegant space was beautifully adorned with chiffon drapery and raised, enormous hydrangea floral arrangements. Cherry blossoms were beautifully placed between the florals.
No detail was spared - from the brides (two pairs) of Bagdley Mischka heels, to her jewelry which belonged to her grandmother, the day(s) were beyond stunning! One the first day of celebrations, the bride wore gold and ivory, with a gorgeous veil dreams are made of. On the second day, she wore ruby and gold and her happiness was contagious! The food was truly a cut-above and included a warm donut stand and desserts for days.
We are so blessed to capture the happiest day of people's lives and are so thankful to be graciously included by the family and friends of our lovely couples. Thank you Maheen and Adil for allowing us to capture your most precious and beautiful day! Enjoy this sneak peek!
(special thanks to Cody for beautifully second-shooting and Mark for video!)
xo, Bonphotage
Read MoreThis power couple can't wait to tie the knot next year and are in the process of deciding between a Chicago or Dubai wedding! We LOVE destination weddings so may be a little biased but either way, we know this photogenic duo will be the talk of the town!
Congratulations you two!
xo, Bonphotage
Read MoreWhen an engagement session involves cupcakes, lattes, books and Chicago - I am a happy photographer! This lovely couple is proudly serving our country abroad and when Ellen asked if I could capture their engagement during the few days they would be in Chicago, I was more than honored to do so! They had a great time smiling for the camera at Milton Lee Olive Park, with incredible skyline views, but when the weather got to be too cold, we found the perfect cupcake shop...and the cutest photos resulted!
Congrats you two and thank you for your service to our great country!
xo, Bonphotage
Read MoreThese two lovebirds are tying the knot early next year at two of my favorite Chicago locations - Holy Family Church and Ovation. This down-to-earth couple wanted to capture their engagement in the city that they live in, love and will be married in, and despite the frigid weather, they were all smiles for their downtown engagement session! I can't wait to capture your big day!
Congratulations you two! xo, Bonphotage
Read MoreThe cold weather didn't stop this adorable family from smiling for the camera! I met Molly in law school at Northwestern Law School and was honored when she asked me to capture her growing family! Her kiddos had a great time running around and being playful at Milton Lee Olive Park (because candid photos are the best!)
Enjoy this sneak peek <3
xo, Bonphotage
Read MoreEmily and Richard are expecting their first bundle of joy and they couldn't be more excited! We had a great time capturing their love and happiness about their new arrival! Can't wait to capture their precious baby girl next March!
Congrats you two! xo, Bonphotage
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