Heidi Kreitz Photography

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-22T19:17:00.002-06:00

Heidi Kreitz Photography will be closed from Wed - Sunday in order to celebrate Thanksgiving with family. Be safe, be happy, and give thanks!

Happy 11-11-11!

2011-11-11T07:49:00.000-06:00

In honor of 11-11-11, I am running a special!

A studio mini-session, four gift-size prints, and an 11% discount off any other items you purchase... all for just $111! This offer is valid January-March of 2012, but must be booked today.

Happy 11-11-11!!

Fall 2011 Mini Sessions

2011-09-02T16:28:00.004-05:00

I have finally set dates for this year's fall mini sessions! I have had several people asking about these, and here they are.

I am trying something new this year... I am giving clients the option of going with a traditional session that includes a few prints and holiday cards, OR receiving a few edited, high-resolution files instead. These files can be used to print your own holiday cards, make prints of your choice, etc. I do have recommendations for online labs that are good, as all photo labs are definitely NOT created equal!

There will be limited numbers of sessions available on each day, so call or email soon to reserve your spot. Locations have not been determined yet (suggestions welcome!) but will be in the Wilmington/Joliet/Kankakee/Channahon area again.

Hope to see you in October!

BIG SALE ON CANVASES TODAY!!!

2011-08-23T08:32:00.003-05:00

BIG SALE ON CANVASES TODAY!!!

Past clients, now is the time to get that canvas from your session at a great price. Current clients, pre-order a size now at the sale price and decide on the pose later!

11x14 or 12x12: $150 (save $50)

16x20 or 20x20: $200 (save $75)

20x24: $235 (save $100)

20x30: $285 (save $115)

This is a one-day sale only... contact me by tonight to ca$h in on the savings!!

Cute family session in the park!

2011-08-20T13:03:00.007-05:00

Oops... just realized a month has gone by with no activity on the blog! Sorry, I tend to forget... but I do have a few shots from a fun family session to share:)

This family was so sweet... Dad arranged it for Mom to have some family photos taken on her birthday. Extra points for being thoughtful... :)

Here is one of the whole family...

And the two little guys, Mr. J and Mr. L, were too cute!!

Finally, one last family shot... isn't this adorable?!

Hope you enjoy your preview, K and R!! Thanks so much for letting me be part of your birthday and capture these special memories for you!

Sizzlin' Hot Summer Special!!

2011-07-18T15:55:00.004-05:00

This week is going to be crazy hot - we're talking heat advisory weather!! Since this is not ideal for outdoor photography, I'm going to run a promotion now to be used when the weather is nicer :)

The Sizzlin' Hot Summer Special goes like this: book a session this week (through Friday, July 22) for August or September, and receive a $75 credit towards any product of your choice. Yes, this includes canvas, prints, accordion books, AND the new framed prints I am offering from JasperLilly!!!

Hot deals like this are too good to pass up, so call 815-354-7408 or email today :)

New Framed Prints Available!!

2011-07-12T10:41:00.006-05:00

I am SOOO excited to be offering frames from JasperLilly for sale with my prints!! Their frames are just beautiful, as you can see by the display I recently hung in my studio. Check it out... aren't they gorgeous??!

The frames are available in 8 different designs, and 33 colors!! Sizes range from 5x7 (as shown in emerald and sapphire), 8x10 (shown in tanzanite and garnet), 11x14 (shown in pearl and onyx), 16x20 shown in moonstone, as well as 24x36 (not shown).

Here are a couple closeup photos so you can see the details further... they are just fantastic! They all come with hanging hardware and little pads to protect your wall.

5x7 Clover in Emerald

11x14 Lilac in Onyx

Prices for a framed 5x7 start at $45... call 815-354-7408 or email me at heidi@heidikreitzphotography.com for more details! Mention this blog post and receive a 10% discount on any framed prints you order (offer good through September 30, 2011).

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-19T11:09:00.004-05:00

I just wanted to wish all the dads out there a very Happy Father's Day!!!

Here are a couple of my favorite daddy/newborn shots in honor of all the wonderful men who make a difference in a child's life!

Cutie at the Beach!

2011-06-16T08:02:00.007-05:00

Oops... just realized it's been a month since my last blog entry. I'm SOOO bad about this sometimes! It's been a busy month... kids finishing up school, taking baseball team photos, taking some photos for an orthodontists' office, and just enjoying life!

I had a session on Monday night that I was very much looking forward to... this little doll was only 6 days old the last time I photographed her, and now she is one!! Amazing how the time flies. We met at a local club with to get some outdoor and beach photos... what a beautiful night and a fantastic location!

Here is sweet little Miss C...

and then we added big sister Miss I in for a few shots. This one just makes me smile!! Diva in training:)

And of course, I'm a sucker for an eyelash shot... love it!

And who can resist chubby baby toes in the sand?! Not us:)

I hope you enjoy your sneak peek... I'm having fun editing these, but thinking about laying on a beach is distracting :) Thanks for letting me record this special time in Miss C's life... she certainly is a sweetie!

Mother's Day Mini-Session

2011-05-09T07:03:00.004-05:00

Last week I had a quick mini-session with these two little ones as a gift for their mother. It's always interesting when Dad is the one getting the kids ready (note to all: you may wish to rethink blue cotton candy as a treat on the way to a photo session!! LOL) but we got them all dolled up and ready to go!

These two were full of energy and definitely kept me on my toes! But look at this cute shot of the two of them... they look so sweet and innocent:) I love C's little smile, and big sister H is hugging him so nicely here (we had to explain that hugging TOO tightly looks like choking - HA)!!

And this was actually one of my early-on test shots for my lighting - what a keeper though! How perfect is this one :)

Thanks, J, for bringing the kids over for a quick Mother's Day shoot. Hope Mom loves them all as much as you did!!

Spring Means... Prom!!

2011-04-27T07:27:00.003-05:00

It was so fun to take some photos before prom of my lovely neighbor H and her boyfriend H!! We weren't sure if we'd have time, but I'm so glad we were able to squeeze in a few.

Her dress was BEAUTIFUL (one of my absolute favorite colors!!) and with her blue eyes, it was a stunning combination! She truly was a princess:) And her boyfriend was so cooperative, even if he wasn't as into taking pics as she was! LOL

Hope you had an amazing time, and enjoy these memories of your Senior Prom!

Win a 16x20 canvas?! I'm in!

2011-03-23T15:30:00.002-05:00

MCP Actions, who has some awesome Photoshop actions for photographers (as well as great tutorials) is having a contest where you could win a 16x20 gallery wrap canvas!

Hmmm.... it would be so hard to choose between printing a personal photo that I love, or a photo of a client to display. Maybe one of my 2010 seniors?! If I win, I'll have a tough decision to make!

Check out her contest here:

http://www.mcpactions.com/blog/2011/03/23/giveaway-win-a-16x20-framed-gallery-wrap-floating-canvas/#comment-73837

CRAZY Canvas Deal!!

2011-03-16T16:26:00.001-05:00

Current AND past clients: my canvas company is coming out with some CRAZY deals this month and I want to pass them on to you! Order before 5pm tomorrow (3/17) and you can get a 16x20 gallery wrap canvas for the AMAZING low price of $150!! That is a savings of $125!! Shoot me an email or call if you'd like to place an order... this is only a 24-hour sale!

Spring Studio Mini Sessions!

2011-03-09T10:24:00.004-06:00

I decided to try something new this year... just in time for Easter and Mother's Day!

I am offering a mini-session in studio, which will include the digital files with print release!! This is something new, so be sure to sign up soon if you are interested.

Be sure to tell your friends about this fantastic special, after you reserve YOUR slot, of course!

Intensity...

2011-03-02T20:21:00.007-06:00

This was the first basketball session I have done, and I wasn't sure what kind of poses were "basketbally" poses! So I asked P, and she told me that they are supposed to protect the ball with their body when they get it. I asked her to show me what she meant, and she put on her game face!!! Love the intensity...

We also took a few in her track uniform... she's not posing "tracky" for me here (didn't have room for her to jump hurdles in the studio LOL), but she looks great!!

Thanks, P, for letting me document these athletic memories for you :)

It's all about the accessories...

2011-03-01T21:23:00.005-06:00

I had a session recently with this just-turned-1 year old little sweetie, and we had so much fun! Mom and I absolutely clicked with our ideas... she brought a pettiskirt, leg warmers, cute bows, necklaces and adorable little silver shoes. How could I ask for more?! And she just LOVED the damask backdrop I've been dying to use again. Yay!!

Put it all together, and you get Miss A all decked out and ready to go!

Here is an adorable shot of the family... I just love Miss A's little expression here. She was so excited to be getting all the attention and sit on mom and dad's shoulders!!

So thank you, E and R, for allowing me to capture these adorable shots of Miss A and your family! I hope you enjoy your sneak peek :)

Are You a Fan on Facebook?

2011-02-25T08:51:00.002-06:00

Heidi Kreitz Photography is trying to develop a larger presence on Facebook, and create a larger fan base. If you are not a fan already, stop by http://www.facebook.com/pages/Heidi-Kreitz-Photography/32179020635 and become a fan. If you are a fan already, be sure to spread the word to your friends. The 250th fan AND the person who referred them will both win a $75 credit for a free session fee!!

So spread the word... and maybe win a session with Heidi Kreitz Photography!!

President's Day Special!

2011-02-21T11:04:00.003-06:00

Today is President's Day.... and the kids are home from school. This could go one of two ways... the kids are whining and fighting and driving me crazy, OR they are happy to have the day off and being nice and helpful. Surprisingly, they are helping me clean the house without complaint, and I am in a great mood because of it!

SOOOOO, in honor of my good mood, I am running a President's Day Special! Book today, and receive 50% OFF your session fee!

I don't run specials like this often, so take advantage and call or email to reserve your spot today. (And be sure to thank my lovely children... you are benefiting from their hard work!!)

Snow!!

2011-01-10T11:00:00.004-06:00

I could have also titled this "The Day I Discovered I Cannot Handhold My Macro Lens at 1/80", but I figured more people would be interested in "Snow!"...

Last Thursday morning, I was very pleasantly surprised that it snowed for a little while. And when I say snowed, I mean the big, beautiful fat flakes that just make you happy!! So I decided to try to capture a few of these wonderful snowflakes with my macro lens and see what I could get.

I discovered that 90% of the shots I thought were OK... really weren't. Here is one of the best ones I got that day... unfortunately, it is not an award winner by any means. So let's chalk it up to experience and just say "wow, beautiful snowflake" because it sure was!!! I really didn't notice the texture on this fabric until after I took the photo... next time I will look for something a little smoother to showcase the snowflakes more...

So, what is the moral of the story? I now have a new item to add to my wish list: a new tripod, because the flimsy one I have really doesn't support my camera and any heavier lens well at all, and I obviously am WAAAAY too shaky to handhold! Lesson learned!!

Last Sneak Peek for 2010!

2010-12-09T10:22:00.007-06:00

Sunday's session in Naperville (just down the street from my husband's childhood home - how's that for coincidence!) was Round 2! We tried a session with this 2-yr old at the end of October, but Miss K really wasn't having anything to do with pictures that day, so we decided to try again at a later date in her own surroundings.

Sunday, she still wasn't all that into a photo session, but we did get some nice shots anyway!

I really love this one, she looks so delicate and thoughtful.

Look at this adorable shot of Dad with the older sibs!

And finally, one of the (very few) smiles we got from her that day... isn't she a cutie?! Love that little wrinkled nose :)

So, L & B, I hope you enjoy your sneak peek! Even though Miss K wasn't as cooperative as we would have hoped, we really did get some cute photos. And like you said, you'll be able to look back at these pics as a memory of how she was at age 2... and she just wasn't into smiling big for the camera at that age :)

Oops...where did November go?! and last minute gift ideas...

2010-12-09T07:48:00.004-06:00

I guess I have been more neglectful in my blogging than usual, seeing as I missed an ENTIRE MONTH! In my defense, our family did take a 3-night Disney Cruise and go to the parks in Orlando over Thanksgiving, so much of my month was taken up with that (the trip itself, getting orders finalized before the trip, and oh yeah - PACKING)!!

OK, so if anyone is looking for last-minute gift ideas (as if you're not all done shopping with the presents wrapped nicely under the tree)...

Think about one of these fun items...

A mini-accordion book - these 3x3 cuties are held closed with a magnet so they don't flop around open in your purse! $35 each, or 3 of the same for $95.
1/2" square or round pewter charms - adorable! $35 each.
A mini-gallery mount print - 5x5 or 5x7 with easel or magnet back. $35 each.
Acrylic key ring - 1.75x2.5 inch with a double-sided metallic print. $12 each.
Lead crystal ornaments - round, teardrop, heart, or bell shaped. $35 each.

ORDER BY FRIDAY, DECEMBER 10 TO RECEIVE IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS WITH NO RUSH FEE. Some orders may be placed as late as December 15, but may have rush fees added.

Call 815-354-7408 or email heidi@heidikreitzphotography.com for more info!

I'm loving this fall family session...

2010-10-27T08:21:00.009-05:00

We wanted to do a session like this last year, but the leaves all fell and the fall colors disappeared too quickly, so we ended up in studio. This year, we were in luck! I went to their gorgeous home and found some amazing spots for photos!

Look at these two handsome boys...

... and this is what I got when I told them to give me "serious" faces. Hmmm.... may need to work on that for next time!! :)

What a beautiful family... love this one!

And my fave... love these two together! This may have been when I told them to give each other a great big smooch... they gave me an "are you crazy????" look and then burst out laughing. You've got to treasure that special bond between brothers :)

So thanks very much to the H family for inviting me out to your lovely home to photograph your family! I hope you enjoy these photos as much as I have editing them so far...

Mini Sessions at Birdhaven/Pilcher Park

2010-10-26T13:20:00.015-05:00

I have gotten a bit behind on my blogging, since I've been spending all my time shooting and editing!! I just realized I still have two seniors that I've featured on Facebook but not here... I will get around to them eventually!

This is a catch-all post from my day of mini-sessions at the Pilcher Park (Birdhaven Greenhouse) from October 17. I am so grateful to one of my clients for suggesting the location... it was perfect. What gorgeous flowers still in bloom in mid-October... who would have guessed?

So here are a few images from that day... love the lighting and fun colors!!

Yes, I occasionally resort to bribery... and the reward :)

And what could be more fitting... three brothers in a tree!

Thanks again to all who participated in the mini-sessions... we had a gorgeous day and ended up with some fantastic shots!

New Seniors on the Blog - Twins from Kaneland High School!

2010-10-13T16:46:00.012-05:00

At the risk of sounding REALLY old, these two are my husband's cousin's kids... and I remember when they were babies!! Wow, how the years and flown by, and now they are seniors. They sure have grown up... look how gorgeous Miss A is now!!! I love this one in the grass...

And this one in the field is great too!!!

We can't forget N... who, as a typical guy, wasn't over-the-top about getting a whole bunch of pics taken!! He was a good sport about it though... look how handsome :)

And we got to do some football pics too... those were fun!

MY FAVORITE!!! It turned out so cool... thanks for working with my "vision" (even though he probably had no idea what I had in mind for this one)!!!

Thanks so much for coming all the way out here - I hope you enjoyed your session (at least a little) and love your preview!!

CANVAS SALE!!

2010-10-12T08:18:00.003-05:00

I have never run a special like this before, but I just received notice that my canvas supplier has certain sizes on sale. Why not pass on savings to my clients?!

Here is the deal:

11x14 or 12x12 canvas: $150 (savings of $50!)

16x20 or 16x24 canvas: $200 (savings of $75!!)

These are 1.5" gallery-wrapped canvas - just gorgeous! The promotion runs through Friday, October 15.

Past clients - wishing you had ordered a canvas? Wishing you had gotten something a little larger than an 8x10 of that adorable shot? Use this promotion to fill your walls at incredible savings!

Sneak Peek for the L family!

2010-10-10T19:03:00.004-05:00

I apologize to the L family... I just now realized I hadn't blogged this earlier in the week like I thought I did!! This is a family I have photographed a few times so far, and I was happy to get to see them all again. The two older kids are so polite and sweet, and little K has grown so much in the past year!

Isn't this family photo adorable?

They were all such good sports, considering it was a cloudy, cold and windy day. They faked it well, don't you think?

And this is probably my favorite... I just LOVE this one!!

So I am sorry this preview took me so long, but the good news is your whole gallery will be ready in the next day or two! Hope you enjoyed these for now :)

Adorable Family at Cantigny!

2010-09-29T20:21:00.006-05:00

Sunday afternoon I had a long-awaited session... this was with a family that I hadn't seen in nearly 2 years, when I took their youngest son E's newborn pics! This session was supposed to take place last fall, and then in the spring, and then earlier in the summer... but sick children, uncooperative weather, and life in general just seemed to get in the way. So FINALLY we were able to meet up at Cantigny Gardens in Wheaton. What a fantastic location!

We found so many wonderful spots for family photos... look at this fabulous reflecting pond with a little dock. The boys would have stayed there all day if they could.

Here's one of T&E just hanging out together... love how big brother is so sweet to the little guy. He was so cute, leading him around by the hand and chasing him through the flowers to make him laugh!

I love this family shot... too cute for words!!

Thanks so much, J&P, for letting me capture your family memories! The boys are just adorable, and it was great to see how quickly they have grown. Hope you enjoy your sneak peek :)

Redheaded Beauty!

2010-09-20T10:15:00.010-05:00

Lacey is my final 2011 Senior Rep... and did her photos ever turn out fantastic!!

We had some fun with some outdoor, urban-type photos first...

then headed to the state park for some OUTSTANDING shots by (and in) the river. We had an interesting time on the banks of that river - discovering a creepy "worm/snake/caterpillar" that found a new home on her bag, Lacey using her eagle-eyes to spot my reflector floating down the stream after "Assistant Kate" (good thing I wasn't paying her!) lost it - all good times!! LOL

(Isn't her hair AMAZING??!!)

Finally, we did some in studio as well. I just love her smile, and she was so sweet too!! I was extremely fortunate to have such beautiful, fun, and photogenic Senior Reps this year!

Be sure to tell Lacey how much you love her senior photos, and get a card for $25 off your session from her!

2010 Mini Session Dates announced...

2010-09-08T20:05:00.004-05:00

I have set the dates for my 2010 Holiday Mini Sessions! Locations to be determined... we will aim to have the photos outside, with the studio as a backup plan if the weather does not cooperate.

If you are interested, book soon! These popular sessions fill up quickly!

More Gorgeous Senior Girls...

2010-09-02T08:07:00.015-05:00

I've been sitting on these images of two of my 2011 Senior Reps for a while now... we took the outdoor ones at the end of July and the studio ones a week or so later! I've been so swamped with other stuff I haven't had a chance to edit all the studio pics yet! I realized it's just WRONG of me not to share these gorgeous photos with the world, so here are a few...

First, Emily... my nature-loving, cowboy-boot-wearing, kid-loving neighbor...

(OMG... can you say AMAZING!!!)

And her twin sister, Kate... who is artsy and fun (and thinks I'm "hip for a mom" so of course I love her LOL)...

(MY FAVORITE!!!! I want to put her on a magazine!!!)

And a fun one of the twins together... I love that they have such different and unique personalities, yet they are still friends and can make each other laugh. Awesome!!

Since Kate and Emily are Senior Reps for me... find them (and tell them how much you love their photos!), ask for a card, and you will receive $25 off your session fee!

A Mom and her Boys...

2010-08-23T07:58:00.007-05:00

This family lives a few houses down from me, and the boys are both going away to school this fall, so Mom wanted some portraits done together before they leave. Let's just say that with their somewhat... offbeat... personalities, this was NOT your typical session!

Here are the two handsome guys.... awwwww....

Then we tried to recreate a photo that was taken of the three of them when the boys were young... they couldn't hang onto and hug Mom quite the same as they did when they were little, but we gave it a shot :)

Then things got a little strange... LOL

But, look at this beautiful photo!! Just love it:)

This Newborn Rocks!!

2010-08-22T14:41:00.007-05:00

And so does his Mom for coming up with this idea!! I first met this family in November of 2008, when I did newborn photos for their middle son, M, and now we're doing photos of Mr. R, boy #3!!

Isn't this photo with Dad's guitar just the best? Seriously, who can resist a baby with a mohawk and a guitar tie? :)

And Grandma made him this little bear hat before our session... isn't it just adorable?

Finally, Mom asked if we could try a family shot in their bedroom on their bed. Heck yeah!! I loved the idea, and love the way it turned out!! Look at Mom and all her men... Testosterone City :)

Thanks to the K family for letting me capture these memories of your newest family member! You certainly have 3 handsome boys... congrats!

Stunning 2011 Senior Rep

2010-08-12T12:14:00.010-05:00

I just realized I had posted some of these on my Facebook page, but not on here... it's hard to keep up with all my various social media sites! LOL But I can't go without sharing some of these photos from a recent senior session. Hannah is actually one of my 2011 Senior Reps from Wilmington High School. If you like her photos, find her and ask her for one of her cards... it will be worth a $25 credit for both of you when you book your Heidi Kreitz Photography senior session!!

Lookin' good, Stacey, lookin' good... LOL

And one of my faves from the day... her mom said it looks like a magazine ad, which is such a great compliment :) If only we could find a magazine that wants it...

Thanks for such a fun day, Hannah! Hope you love all your photos as much as I do :)

A family session at the waterfall!

2010-07-27T23:36:00.006-05:00

This session was on a hot, hot, day in July (imagine that, a hot July day in Chicagoland!), but it was OK, because it was a special session... for a couple reasons. First, the D family are friends of ours - my daughter has been friends with R since kindergarten (hard to believe it's 5 years already)! Second, this family purchased this session through a silent auction. Back in the spring, I donated a gift certificate to my son's Cub Scout troop, and the D family won the auction! Talk about a win-win situation - the Cub Scouts made some money, the D family gets some great family photos, and I have fun creating those photos! Yay all around :)

Here is a quick preview from the session... a cute photo of R&C alone...

And one of the 3 kids together... love it!

And finally, one of the D family, including Aunt K. The waterfall was pretty crowded with people visiting and exploring when we first arrived, so I was very happy we were able to get some photos after all. I don't think you can really beat this spot for a family photo!

Thanks for a fun session, and I hope you enjoy your little sneak peek... and thanks again for bidding so diligently at the silent auction!

Such a gorgeous setting for a wedding!!

2010-07-23T12:39:00.003-05:00

Those of you who know me know that I do NOT do weddings! Well, a friend of ours called me about 2 weeks before his wedding to tell me that their photographer fell through and they had nobody. How could I let that happen? So I stepped into the role of wedding photographer - ONCE and ONLY ONCE - and set out to capture J & K's day. I am not completely done editing, but here are a few...

I hope I was truly able to capture your memories of such a special day! And I must say...wedding photographers... kudos to you! I went into this project thinking that wedding photography would be a challenge, but I now have an entirely new respect for those of you who do weddings on a regular basis.

J & K... hope you enjoy your photos!

Lovely family session!

2010-07-18T12:55:00.008-05:00

Before we went on vacation (some fun vacation photos to come when I get to them!!), I had a chance to take a few quick family photos. Isn't this family gorgeous?! I may be biased, because they are my brother-in-law and his family, but I honestly think they are great :) They came up to IL to visit for a few days from TN, and I was really excited we were able to squeeze in a few photos amongst all the family craziness!!

Here is one of B&A together... love it!!

Here is one of the whole family together... you'd never guess by their smiles that we were all in the middle of one of the largest swarms of mosquitoes you've ever seen...

And one of the kids alone... tried a little different feel on the processing here, and I think I like it! See how nicely they smile for their favorite (well, at least I like to think so!!) Aunt Heidi :)

And finally, one of my adorable niece M and her American Girl Doll - what trip to visit Chicago is complete without a stop at the American Girl Store?!

If only I could let you all (or should I say "Ya'll") hear them speak... they have the cutest little southern accents ever!!!

More Twins :)

2010-06-27T11:13:00.005-05:00

...except these twins are a little older, wearing gorgeous First Communion Dresses, and didn't cry quite as much :)

Here are a couple individual shots of the girls looking all sweet and innocent...

I thought I would try a different kind of processing on this photo... I think I really like this look!

And then I asked myself... how can you tell when the session is over? When the 'models' have had enough? This photo speaks for itself...

At least they're still smiling as they try to throw each other to the ground... their Mom, on the other hand, probably not smiling QUITE as much since they're wearing WHITE dresses!

Twin Bundles of Joy :)

2010-06-26T23:36:00.006-05:00

I was so excited to photograph boy/girl twins last week!! Mr. S and Miss P decided to start the session out on their own schedules - when one was sleepy, the other was ready to eat or just look around for a while - so while they were each doing their own thing, I started out with some individual shots.

Here is Miss P, with those chubby, squishable little cheeks :)

And sweet Mr. S... who can resist a baby who smiles when he sleeps?!

We FINALLY got them both to sleep for just a few minutes at the same time, and I worked feverishly (which means I worked really hard, but also was sweating like I had a fever in the oven-like studio) to get some of these shots of them together. I always tell the parents that if we want the babies to be comfortable sleeping in their birthday suits, then we need to be prepared to sweat a little!!

And it was worth it? Look at these two sweeties and you be the judge...

Finally, how about some too-cute-for-words, sleeping twins in a giant bowl?

Yeah, that'll do for now :)

I had a lot of fun meeting these two (and their big brother, who was SOOOO very patient through this super-long --not to mention hot-- session). Hope you enjoy your preview!

Stormy Weather...

2010-06-21T22:47:00.006-05:00

I could have titled this post "Very Wet June" or "Way Too Much Freakin' Rain", but decided to focus on the very cool lightning storm we experienced earlier this evening. The sky to the south was lit up for almost 30 mins with nearly constant lightning, and we heard a low rumble of thunder that really didn't seem to stop that entire time.

I have always wanted to try to capture some lightning photos but never really had an opportunity. Tonight, I decided to give it a shot and was able to get some pretty cool shots!! These were all taken without a tripod, as I didn't want to waste time trying to find it. I did, however, prop the camera on a table and some books so I could set the exposure to 2 seconds. I probably took about 25 shots, and these were the three that were keepers...

I think this one is my favorite...

We did stay dry earlier in the evening through this portion of the lightning storm, but I think the sky is about to open up and drench us once again :(

Another sweet newborn girl :)

2010-06-15T17:06:00.005-05:00

Last week I had yet another sweet newborn girl to photograph :) Miss C was such a cutie... and even though I'm showing these sleeping photos, she was awake and alert a lot of the time too. Such big, bright eyes... I even got some eye contact!

I was able to sneak in a few of her in this adorable hat...

And finally, one with my macro lens. I just love this shot!

Thank you to T & R for letting me photograph Miss C, and her big sister I. You have such a beautiful family - I really enjoyed meeting all of you :)

Sweet Newborn Girl...

2010-06-04T16:18:00.004-05:00

I had the opportunity to photograph this sweet doll this morning... she was SO very good!! I can honestly say she is the first newborn NOT to have any accidents on my blankets... or on any of the people who were present:) She slept like a dream, and didn't cry once! Look at this adorable little bear...

And we had to get her older sister in on the act! Miss K is 4, and she was very proud of "her baby"! I love the expression I caught on her face in this one...

I have so many fantastic photos from this session, but wanted to get these 2 up as a very quick preview before I begin the weekend of softball madness and get behind. Thanks so much, K and R for allowing me to photograph your two beautiful daughters!

Junior Prom

2010-05-21T07:35:00.009-05:00

These three beautiful girls are my neighbors, and I have watched them grow so much in the past several years. Hard to believe they were only 12 when I met them all... look at them now!! Gorgeous :)

One of the twins together...

H goofing around in the studio waiting for her date to arrive....

Since I still haven't gotten model releases from the other two guys, I can only post one of K and her boyfriend M. Aren't they cute together? :)

Hard to believe that I'll soon be taking pics of their little sister heading off to her HS dances... and then my own daughter E in a few years... sob! Time flies way too fast, which is why I believe it's so important to capture these special moments.

Gorgeous Senior Girl!

2010-05-07T21:36:00.004-05:00

Wow, what a FUN session this was!! When I met K on Tuesday for her senior photo session, I immediately realized that this girl was not only beautiful, but REALLY fun and sweet too! Her smile was just infectious, and she was willing to try just about anything I suggested. I was hoping to get a preview up sooner, but I honestly spent soooo much time going through the photos over and over again, trying to select my favorites. Finally, I gave up and decided I'll just choose a few now, and then more than likely I'll add a few more in a couple days. When there are so many fantastic shots to choose from, it's hard to narrow it down (plus, I'm indecisive to begin with)!!

So here are a few for now :) Anyone who has followed my blog at all knows I'm a sucker for a great black and white...

However, blue is my favorite color, and this photo just screams "COLOR" to me with its rich jewel tones... isn't it great?!

After we did a series in studio, we headed out to the forest preserve for a final set in her sundress. I absolutely fell in love with this one... the way her dress just pops with its bright spring colors, and the way the light sparkles in the leaves behind her... LOVE it!!!

Thanks again, K, for making the drive down from Plainfield. I really enjoyed meeting you and your mother, and I had a great time with this session! I hope you like what you see so far, because there are a LOT more great photos to come :)

Beautiful Ballerina...

2010-04-19T10:21:00.008-05:00

There is a photographer in KC that I admire greatly who has some of the most fantastic dancer photos ever. After being totally inspired by Lori, I wanted to try some ideas of my own, and who better to experiment with than my gorgeous neighbor, H! We've been talking about trying some dramatic shots for a while, but spring break was the first opportunity we had to do so. These are a few of my favorite shots from the session... isn't she just stunning?!

H, thank you so much for the opportunity to create these gorgeous photos... I hope you love them as much as I do!

Tiny Dancer...

2010-04-14T10:51:00.007-05:00

I had the privilege to meet 1-yr old Miss A and her family this past Sunday... what a little sweetie she was!! She was quite serious at first... not quite sure what to make of me and my big flashy lights. We started out with a few family pics - having Mom and Dad there with her kind of helped ease into things.

We did a few pics of Miss A by herself, then decided it was time to take a little break and get some fresh air. We went out into the front yard to sing a few songs and laugh at a mysterious leaf-eating creature (was it a goat? or was it Daddy? we'll never tell)... then Miss A had to show us that she is "SOOOO big"!!!

Finally, back into the studio for a change of scenery and outfit. Miss A was the cutest little ballerina you could imagine...

I love everything about this photo... her expression, those chubby little ankle rolls, how she is placing her little toe down oh-so carefully... I just adore it all!!

I hope you enjoy your sneak peek, J and J, and thank you for letting me capture Miss A's 1-yr memories for you!

Confirmation photos

2010-04-10T16:00:00.005-05:00

OK, after such a good February, I once again have slacked on the blog. Here are a few photos I took of my neighbor on her Confirmation day... we just did a super quick mini-session b/c she wasn't feeling the greatest. You'd never know to look at her though - she was beautiful :)

Hope you like your photos, my "other-daughter"!!

FUN February... Photo 28!

2010-03-01T13:33:00.004-06:00

I really kinda dig these giant weeds that grow behind our back fence. Since there aren't any flowers out yet for me to photograph, I figured this would be a good subject instead!

I think the photo just captures the stark, dreary feel of today. Maybe sun tomorrow... I can hope :)

FUN February... Photo 27!

2010-03-01T13:29:00.003-06:00

I finally ventured outside, because it had stopped snowing and was actually in the 30s! However, it was kind of gray and dreary, so I thought this post-processing method kind of fit the feeling.

FUN February... Photo 26!

2010-03-01T13:16:00.003-06:00

Here's my other sweetie... love her little spotted paws :)

FUN February... Photo 25!

2010-03-01T13:14:00.004-06:00

Here is one of my little sweeties. I think he looks so "regal" or something here... I just love him :)

He truly thinks he's a 60-something pound lap dog :)

FUN February... Photo 24!

2010-03-01T11:28:00.001-06:00

I'm so proud of my little Cub Scout :) His troop is new this year... we'd love to get more boys involved!

FUN February... Photo 23!

2010-03-01T10:51:00.004-06:00

I was in between sessions the other day, and my son came out to goof around for a few minutes. Isn't he just the cutest ever?!

My little heartbreaker... :)

FUN February... Photo 22!

2010-02-26T22:49:00.003-06:00

Still behind, but at least I'm not falling even further back. Here's a fun one... next time I want to try to get bigger bubbles :)

FUN February... Photo 21!

2010-02-25T21:02:00.002-06:00

I had this idea in my head earlier in the month, but the lighting has never been quite right to do what I had in mind. So today, I helped a friend with some photos for a product he has developed and is going to be selling online, and once we were done I took advantage of the lighting setup and the white backdrop to try it out!

I think it's kinda fun :)

FUN February... Day 20!

2010-02-25T20:53:00.003-06:00

Or to be more accurate, PHOTO 20 :) I may have fallen behind, but I'm determined to get all 28 photos for February up here, one way or another!!

My kids helped me pick out a bouquet of flowers yesterday... they serve a dual purpose: making the kitchen look cheerful AND providing me with a willing subject!!

FUN February... Day 19!

2010-02-19T14:02:00.002-06:00

I was letting the dogs out last night and noticed how beautiful these cattails looked over our back fence... with the sun setting and backlighting them so beautifully.

So I threw on some boots, headed out back, and captured this before the sun set (with a small black dog jumping around my ankles the entire time, of course)...

FUN February... Day 18!

2010-02-19T14:00:00.002-06:00

This candle smells SOOO good... wish I was able to make this a scratch-n-sniff to share with all of you :)

FUN February... Day 17!

2010-02-19T13:58:00.003-06:00

This is pretty self-explanatory... a glass of a delicious pinot to relax after a LONG week!

FUN February... Day 16!

2010-02-19T13:52:00.003-06:00

I've been a bit behind this week... spent WAAAY too many hours at the doctor's office and the hospital getting tests done for my sick daughter. Luckily, she seems to have kicked this recurrent strep and is back to school this afternoon :)

So I'm playing catch-up for the last 4 days...

First, a photo of the IL state quarter. My daughter has been learning her states and capitals, which made me think of the quarters she received from my grandfather for Christmas.

FUN February... Day 15!

2010-02-15T20:15:00.004-06:00

OK, another one that's not exactly fun! I also call this photo "Why Exercise Hurts"...

My DH was doing pull-ups when the bracket supporting the chin-up bar broke. He landed on his back and his elbow on the cement floor, and then the bar crashed down on his face. It was a pretty nasty split in his eyebrow at first, but it's actually looking better here. Ouch!

FUN February... Day 14!

2010-02-15T15:07:00.004-06:00

Forgot again yesterday... luckily, I was distracted from my day of boredom when our neighbor was able to come over and watch the kids so hubby and I could go for a Valentine's Day date :) Amazingly enough... this was the 19th anniversary of our first date. Wow, does that make me sound old!! I'm just so lucky to have found someone so wonderful to spend my life with...

Here is a sweet photo in honor of Valentine's Day and my three sweeties... one kiss for each!!

FUN February... Day 13!

2010-02-13T16:23:00.004-06:00

Today's photo was set up by my DD Emma... she had an idea, and this is what we ended up with.

Introducing... "Casual Canine" starring Zoey :)

FUN February... Day 12!

2010-02-12T16:22:00.004-06:00

Finally, Day 12's photo which was taken on Day 12 :)

Not exactly a "fun" photo, but this has been my life the past few days. Daughter with strep yet AGAIN... she missed her Valentine's party today, poor kiddo. I'm SO ready for spring, nice weather, and hopefully healthier kids!!

FUN February... Day 11!

2010-02-12T16:13:00.004-06:00

Technically, this isn't a Day 11 photo, but it is my 11th photo that I'm posting for the month! I actually took this a couple days ago (same day I did the other abstract) but didn't post it yet. Things have been hectic lately and I didn't get a chance to shoot anything yesterday. So, it is a new photo, just taken a couple days ago!

I don't think this one will be as hard to guess as the other one... any takers? :)

FUN February... Day 10!

2010-02-11T14:15:00.003-06:00

OK, technically I'm posting this on Day 11, but I truly did take it yesterday (just too tired to get it up last night). This shot of Miss M was taken during our modeling/comp card session yesterday morning, and I can say that it was truly one of the most fun sessions I've ever done! She was so cute and full of fire (as is typical for an almost-5-yr old), and she was SOOO cooperative!! She did make me laugh when we'd be in the middle of shooting a series and she'd just hop right off the stool and inform me "Isn't it time to take a little break now? I need a drink of water!"

We took some really fun shots yesterday, but I think this was one of my faves. We had on some kids' music and she was dancing away for me... I just love the expression on her face!! You can just see her energy and that she is having a blast!

I still can't believe I get paid to have fun with kids and capture moments like this... this is why I love my job :)

FUN February... Day 9!

2010-02-09T17:12:00.004-06:00

OK, there is nothing amazing or photographically fantastic about this picture (it was even taken through the window)... I just thought it was a really funny shot of my really BAAAAAAAD dog sitting on my table!! Ha!

I certainly hope he doesn't think this kind of behavior is acceptable on any other tables, and once it gets nice out and we are eating, drinking and otherwise entertaining on the furniture outside that it will not continue :)

I think my big, tough puppy doesn't like sitting in the cold snow!

FUN February... Day 8!

2010-02-09T12:54:00.003-06:00

OK, once again I missed a post yesterday (oops!) so I'm making two today to catch up.

Here is a colorful abstract macro... this was very fun to create!!

I'm wondering if anyone can figure out what this is? Please feel free to post your guesses in the comments and I'll let you know if anyone gets it right!

FUN February... Day 7!

2010-02-07T17:24:00.003-06:00

I just adore eyelashes :) These beauties belong to my daughter... identifiable by her sweet little freckled cheeks!

I shot this one using my 100mm macro, set to manual focus. It was interesting trying to nail the focus b/c Emma would sway just the slightest little bit, and move right out of the plane of focus. More fun experimenting with my macro lens though :)

FUN February... Day 6!

2010-02-07T17:20:00.005-06:00

This was a picture I took as a test shot when getting my lights ready for the Daddy/Daughter Dance... they had fun, and I ADORE this shot!!

FUN February... Day 5!

2010-02-06T16:11:00.003-06:00

Again, sort of Day 5. It's photo 5 on Day 6... I'll have to catch up this weekend :)

This morning, I found a mysterious set of tiny pawprints that looked to be leading right out of my garage into the driveway, up towards the front steps where they turned around and walked back down the driveway and out in to the street. Curious...

We received such a light dusting of snow last night, I like how you can see the texture of the concrete right in the pawprint :)

FUN February... Day 4!

2010-02-05T13:59:00.005-06:00

Well, sort of :) I actually had this idea set up for yesterday (thanks to Ben, he wanted me to do this one) but it was too dark before I was able to get to it, and I didn't have time to set up the lights (they're packed up for the Daddy-Daughter Dance tomorrow night). SOOOO... the candy-cane hearts for Day 4 had to wait till today! But I do have an idea for Day 5 that I'm hoping to get to... if the weather cooperates.

But for now... some more candy to make you smile :)

FUN February... Day 3!

2010-02-03T19:47:00.003-06:00

Today I was hoping to post a fun photo from my modeling/comp card session, but that was postponed due to a 102 fever. Poor girl, I hope she feels better soon!

Since I had everything all ready for a session, I decided to take advantage and get some pics of my own kids since they had an early release from school. Luckily, my theme for the month is "FUN," because this was the best I got out of them today! I do have a series of Ben sticking his tongue out, hair flying around while he was jamming on the air drums, and generally being a goof. Emma really wanted some with the pups, but after this I had no patience left to try to bring two skittish dogs in front of the lights!

I guess some days the PKS (photographer's kid syndrome) is more evident than others :)

FUN February... Day 2!

2010-02-02T11:15:00.003-06:00

I think I'm going to enjoy the challenge I set for myself with a photo every day. Today I found inspiration in something that I see every day, and hear nearly every day as my daughter practices...

FUN February!!!

2010-02-01T16:23:00.005-06:00

Well, I have decided that my blogging history has been rather dismal, and it's time to do something about it!! I have seen some do 365 days of photos, or a theme like "Macro Monday", etc. Well, it's too late in 2010 to start the 365 theme, but I thought it would be fun to come up with something else.

SO... FUN February was born :) I decided that I need to just pick up the camera and shoot for myself more often. I'm going to try to post a new photo every day of something that I find fun... whether it be fun pics of my pets or kids, a funny client photo, or just random items that I find fun to shoot (be prepared for some macros, as I really want to learn my macro lens better)!

With that said, here is my first photo... nothing says fun to me like a pile of brightly colored skittles!

Come back tomorrow for more fun photos!!

First post of 2010... a 2-yr old doll baby!!

2010-01-09T16:57:00.005-06:00

Well, we're nine days into the new year and I'm finally making a new blog entry... not so great, but better late than never!! I figured a good way to start out the new year would be with a preview from my session last week. I have been fortunate able to watch this cutie grow... I've done her newborn, 6 month, one year (cake smash fun!!) and now her two year pics.

Miss A was so funny - her answer to everything was an emphatic "No!!" accompanied by the head shaking and running off the backdrop! We did have some fun though... we played with a doll, got out some markers, and after she combed my hair she even brought in some tissue and wiped my nose for me. (I SWEAR I do groom myself before heading out for a session...)

Here is one of her in her new dress...

and a closeup (in B/W, naturally)! Her second outfit change involved some brown boots, which she insisted on putting on herself... a 2-yr old with that much spunk is going to be SUCH fun as a teenager! :)

Thanks again, C, for letting me be there to record all these fun stages in Miss A's life. We will definitely remember her 2-yr session as the "Miss Independent" session!!

The Newest Members of the Kreitz Family :)

2009-11-16T11:26:00.007-06:00

Some of you may know that we lost our longtime family member, Duffy, this summer at the age of 15. It was a very hard time for all of us.

Recently, we decided that our house was just a little too lonely without some canine feet running around. We went to the Humane Society to see if we could find a dog that would fit into our family. Well, big surprise!! We found TWO puppies in need of a home, and just couldn't leave one behind.

So I am proud to introduce Milo and Zoey, the two newest members of our family!!

Here is a quick snap of Ben with the pups on their first night home...

Last week we took the kids and puppies out to the forest preserve to get some photos of them together before sunset... the puppies weren't exactly interested in spending much time taking pics, as there was so much to explore! But I grabbed a few quick shots while I could...

And one of the two babies together :) We just love Zoey's little "beard" and her adorable spotted paws, and Milo's little flopped-over ear is too cute!!

Since I'm pretty much done with photo sessions for the year (unless anyone has a maternity or newborn they need to squeeze in), I just wanted to show off my new babies a bit :)

I think it's finally my last mini-session sneak peek...

2009-11-09T17:39:00.005-06:00

OK, I think this is my final preview from my holiday mini-sessions this fall. I meant to get this up sooner, but my life has been such a whirlwind lately that I have fallen a bit behind. Imagine that!!

Anyway, this is K, one of my son's soccer teammates from this fall. K's mom helped coach, and his little brother was always running around at the games too! It was fun to get the boys in the studio for a quick session (the ground was too wet after what felt like the monsoon season passed). Here are individual shots of the boys...

And one of the two together... aren't they cute?! I thought that they might be wild and crazy after seeing them running around at soccer, but they were so well behaved and patient!

Sorry I'm a little slow with your sneak peek... your full gallery will be ready for viewing shortly!

Mini-session Sneak Peek

2009-11-02T12:46:00.004-06:00

I enjoyed this mini-session... it was fun to work with a girl who seemed to be having a good time, and who I didn't have to chase or corral or try to stop from escaping!!

I just loved her outfit, and I thought this was so cute when I told her to pose and give me a little "attitude"!!

And I really loved this one... look at those big, beautiful eyes!!

I hope you had fun, and I am so happy I got to photograph you!

Another Mini Session Sneak Peek...

2009-10-30T21:02:00.006-05:00

Here are a couple more from another one of my mini sessions... these are some friends of mine and not only are they beautiful, but they are some of the sweetest people ever!

Look at these two girls... just adorable!!!

And we had to get a photo of the happy couple... it was their anniversary, after all!!

Finally, a family photo... I just love these guys! They are just the nicest family ever... not to mention photogenic!

Thanks for letting me capture these memories for you :)

Another Mini-Session Preview...

2009-10-29T21:34:00.005-05:00

Last year I did some family photos with C and her son E, and this year we were able to include her fiance, M, as well. I think this one turned out so nice!

And one with the three of them together...

Even though we had to move the session into the studio because of the weather, we got some great shots. Thanks for driving down again this year, and congratulations on your engagement!

Little K is Turning 1...

2009-10-28T16:17:00.004-05:00

I was very happy to get to see Miss K and her family again... we had just done an outdoor family session the week before, so I knew just how cute she was going to be!

How can you not smile when you see that little face... not to mention her ponytail!!

Who doesn't just LOVE a baby in a basket?! I even got to try out my newest blanket, which I thought worked lovely here :)

And finally a shot with her parents... I just love how happy they all look here!

Thanks so much for making the drive to my studio from Naperville... it was so much fun to see all of you again, and capture these moments as K turns one!

OK, one more!!

2009-10-26T00:15:00.002-05:00

I know I said I was only putting up one, but I had to add another :) Everyone who knows me knows I just can't resist a good black and white!!!

Another Mini Session Preview

2009-10-25T22:50:00.003-05:00

I have quite a few sessions stacked up ready to be edited - it has been a BUSY couple weeks! There just doesn't seem to be enough hours in the day... so here is just one from last Tuesday's session. I have worked with this family a number of times over the past year, and these kids just keep getting cuter every time!!

Last year at this time it was torture to get Miss A in front of the camera, and this year she kept telling me "Heidi, don't forget to take a picture of me!! And now... take another one now!! And look at me doing this... and over here... how about now?!" Too cute :)

And what can I say... anyone who shows up wearing Packers clothes for a photo session is #1 in my book!!! Love it... Go Pack Go :)

Fall family session... lots of girls!

2009-10-23T14:07:00.004-05:00

As I mentioned, this unpredictable fall weather has forced me to reschedule a few sessions... this was one of them. Luckily, Sunday was a beautiful day and we got some great outdoor family photos!

I thought this one turned out great, and I'm so happy we convinced dad to get in here too...

And here is one of the four girls... I like this one a lot!!!

So here are a couple from Sunday.... hope you enjoy them!! The ones with the girls fighting and making faces are coming later (haha)!!

Mini Sessions are in Full Swing...

2009-10-22T23:03:00.003-05:00

I just looked at the last blog post and realized it's been over a month since I've been on here!! How bad is that?! I've had a busy month... homecoming photos for the neighbor girls, fall photos for a local preschool, and now the Mini-sessions have begun! Weather has not been very cooperative recently... we've had to reschedule several sessions due to rain and cold. Sunday I had a mini-session with a client who I last saw in the spring... Baby K was 3 months old then, and she is turning 1 now! In fact, I'll be posting photos from her 1-yr session before long :)

For now, here are a couple photos from the mini session... a cute one of K alone, and one of her with her big brother and sister :) I just love these!

It was nice to meet the rest of the family, and I had a great time with all of you! Enjoy your sneak peek...

An Anniversary Session!

2009-09-17T19:53:00.011-05:00

I had the opportunity to take photos of this extended family this past weekend while they were celebrating their parents' 25th Anniversary! I know how hard it is to get the entire family together, much less all in a photo at the same time. We got some really nice shots of each family individually that day...

Isn't their Boston Terrier pup the cutest ever?!

And finally, the whole group together :)

Anyone who knows me or has followed my blog at all knows that I couldn't do an entire post without at least ONE black and white! Isn't this sweet... an anniversary kiss :)

I hope everyone enjoyed their preview, and I'll be sending you all a password for your completed gallery before too much longer!

Super Fun Engagement Session!!

2009-09-16T09:50:00.009-05:00

I was so excited to meet this fun couple on Sunday! We had a rocky start to the day - had to postpone the session a couple hours b/c the area was shrouded in a heavy fog bank - but I'm so glad we waited!

The weather was beautiful, and so were my clients! They were so sweet, and I absolutely fell in love with their two sweet Boston Terriers, Tyson and Simon. Isn't this the cutest family photo?

Aren't these great?!

This one looks like a magazine ad to me...

And one of my faves, such a fun shot!!

It was so great to meet you, L & J (not to mention the boys)! I hope you enjoy your sneak peek!

Newborn! Sweet Baby A

2009-09-04T10:48:00.006-05:00

I've been a bad blogger lately... I apologize :) I need to do better about that... but here is a sneak peek of a sweet little newborn girl. This little doll is the spitting image of her father... I was amazed when mom showed me his newborn photo, because they look so much alike!

As fate would have it, the little baby who slept nonstop for the first 11 days of her life decided that Day 12 was going to be the day she stayed awake all morning!! So while we didn't get the curled up, sleepy naked baby shots we were hoping for (Miss A was also modest and didn't seem to like being naked very much!) we did get some other sweet photos.

Isn't this family shot just beautiful?!

Hope you enjoyed your quick preview, A & S! Congrats on your new addition, she is truly precious!

I finally shot some "me" photos!

2009-08-18T16:39:00.007-05:00

No, not photos OF me, but FOR me!! I haven't really shot anything for myself in a while, so last week a friend and I took our kids to this AWESOME Children's Garden near us. I'm so glad D introduced me to this place!! The kids had so much fun playing, and I had some fun playing too! I just took these with my (cheapo) zoom lens set to the "macro" setting, which isn't truly macro, but I had fun anyway. Can't wait till my new macro gets here and I can try a whole new bunch of ideas out!!

Pretty red flower that just pops against the sea of green...

Butterfly that loved these purple flowers. I didn't even realize I got the bee in the photo until I loaded it on the computer... I was so focused on the butterfly I wasn't paying attention to anything else!!

My very own "Toothless Wonder"... always willing to flash me that gap-toothed smile. Just love him to pieces! He still eats corn on the cob, if you can believe that!

And his friend, Sweet T... just love her too! She had the toothless grin going on in the spring :)

And all the little kids up on top of a BIG hill... love this one!

So don't forget to take time for fun... for the kids, for yourself, and everyone will be happier :)

Grand prize winner.... my daughter!

2009-08-07T11:18:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to make a post on here sharing our excitement. My daughter was the winner of the Grand Prize drawing at our local library! She won a Wii system... how cool is that!

This is just a quick snapshot of her receiving the grand prize. Thanks so much to the library... they had great programs all summer and this is a fabulous prize!

A 1-yr old session and cake smash!!

2009-07-31T11:07:00.006-05:00

I was lucky to get to work with this family again... I first took N's pics last fall when he was only 3 months old (see the link here: http://heidikreitzphotography.blogspot.com/2008/11/mini-session-with-two-sweet-munchkins.html ). Now, we were commemorating his 1st birthday!!

He wasn't real thrilled about smiling whenever I stuck that big black box in his face, but we managed to get some adorable shots nonetheless.

I was excited to get some pics with him and mom's gear. She is a firefighter, and I thought these photos were so cool! The helmet was awesome... it belonged to mom, and her father before her! Great family tradition!!

Then we broke out the cake!! N did not hesitate to dive in and get his hands (and face, and everything else!) dirty. I think we can safely say this was his favorite part of the session :)

Love how his hand is completely buried in the cake up to his wrist!

And finally, one that is kind of an outtake, but I think it is SO funny I had to post it! We all know this feeling, when we have stuffed ourselves and feel like we cannot possibly eat another bite. Ever. The way he's kind of sitting there in a stupor is just priceless. Love it!!!

So, thanks again to the C family for allowing me to work with you! I had alot of fun, and I hope you did too. Enjoy your previews, and I'll let you know when the entire gallery is ready for viewing!

A Special Maternity Session

2009-07-27T15:46:00.009-05:00

I had the honor of photographing A and S, who are expecting their first baby. S is one of my husband's oldest friends, so it was exciting to get to witness this special time for them. Knowing S as we do and having seen him age (mature might be too strong a term!), fatherhood might come as somewhat of a shock... for instance, child-appropriate TV channels include Disney or Nickelodeon, not MTV. Just one example!! Luckily A will be there to set things straight :)

I was excited to try this shot incorporating the ultrasound... baby's first photo, I guess!!

We did some of mom (and belly) alone...

and then a few with both parents...

Thanks to A & S for letting me document this special time in your life! Congratulations, and enjoy your preview. Can't wait to meet Baby Girl when she arrives next month!!

Sweet baby girl...

2009-07-26T13:32:00.007-05:00

Well, I returned from vacation to find a message that my maternity client from June had delivered a baby girl while I was gone! I was so excited to have a session when I got home!!

Little Miss O was just the sweetest thing... she would alternate between being awake (and wanting to eat, pee or poop LOL) and sleeping just long enough to get some great shots in!!

This was the base of table in my clients' home... we just took off the glass top and set it in the hallway. I loved the texture of it... and so did their cat, who kept jumping up whenever we would move Miss O!!

This blanket was extra special, as it was knitted by Miss O's great-grandmother before she passed away.

I was SOOOO excited to have a newborn girl again, since my last few newborns have been boys. I had a fun flower hat I wanted to try with her... so imagine how happy I was when I arrived to find my client had this little hat!! I was in heaven :)

I tried a new "honey" like process on this photo to give it a different, dreamy kind of feel. I think it works well on this one... what do you think?

B and K, I hope you enjoy your sneak preview! I had so much fun with these... congrats on your adorable new girl :)

Summertime Fun Family Session!

2009-07-10T10:13:00.009-05:00

I recently had an evening family session, and we couldn't have asked for a more beautiful day! This family was willing to try any location I suggested, and I was so happy we went to the waterfall. The water level was perfect AND we were lucky that there was nobody there!

Look at this great group shot!

And here are a handful of other shots...

This Dad was on leave from the armed forces... thanks for your service and sacrifice!

And I couldn't resist an eyelash shot... they were quite possibly some of the longest I've ever seen. Just gorgeous!!!

I hope you enjoy your sneak peek... the whole gallery will come after my vacation :)

Summer Special!

2009-07-07T17:45:00.004-05:00

Summer is just flying by!! July is here, and before we know it, it too will be gone and the kids will be heading back to school.

In honor of this fun summer of 2009, I'm offering a photography special! Schedule a session to be held during the month of August and pay only $50... AND receive a complimentary 5x10 Summer storyboard with every order of $400 or more!

I will be on vacation for a week, so I will be back to work on July 20. Feel free to email or send an inquiry through my website to reserve your date... things are starting to fill up :)

Happy Summer :)

Fun With Kids and Toad...

2009-07-01T17:19:00.006-05:00

A toad and some kids usually makes for a good combination... and some fun photos! After editing the family's entire session, I thought these were too fun not to share...

Baby N with a toad on his head... he knew something was not quite right, but wasn't sure what. Immediately after this shot he took off crawling and the toad made his escape!

Miss E was having lots of fun with this little guy... she was not in the least bit freaked out. She reminded me of my younger days when we would spend hours hunting for frogs and toads at my grandparents' cottage. She was awfully proud to show off the little guy!

And finally, I think my favorite shot of the day... Little Miss A, kissing her toad and wishing for her prince. Some day, A, some day...

Thanks to the kids, and to Mr. Toad, for being so cooperative :)

The C Family...

2009-06-17T13:17:00.008-05:00

Sunday was a perfect evening for a photo session! Slightly overcast, nice and warm... just beautiful! We met at one of my favorite outdoor locations, which is actually the place where I did photos with the family in green last fall. Their kids have grown so much in such a short time... Miss A was so cooperative and a little ham, and little N is crawling all over now!

Here's a photo of just grandma and grandpa... he really liked the lake in the background, and it made a lovely backdrop when we could sneak in photos that didn't have random people fishing in the background!!

I absolutely LOVE this little family photo... N looks so happy, and A is being her usual cute self here :) Doesn't her pose and expression just say "Who me? I'm just hangin' with my peeps..." I think it's so cute!!

Finally, one of C and E together... this was one shot I snapped off before C tried to get away from his sister. What happened to sibling love?!!

Thanks so much to the C family... I had a great time and hope you did too! There are so many great photos to choose from, I had a hard time narrowing it down to just a few to post on here. I'll let you know when your gallery is finished and posted online. Hope you enjoyed your preview!

Family!

2009-06-15T20:27:00.006-05:00

I had the pleasure of photographing this extended family on Saturday morning. We had scheduled the session for Hammel Woods in Joliet, and with one family member in town from MN, we didn't really have an option of a rain date. It was lightly sprinkling when we started, and the weather felt more like April than May, but the heavy rain held off and we got some great photos!

Here are the four adult siblings...

and then the sweet matriarch and patriarch of the group!

We decided to try a fun group shot in addition to some more traditional poses, and it turned out great! I just love how everyone is laughing, and look at the two little guys with their feet swinging in the air!! I chose to do this in a long skinny crop - imagine it over a fireplace - because I felt that such a fun, unique photo deserved a fun, unique crop!

Finally, one tender moment between daddy and his baby girl... she was cold and tired and need a snuggle. So sweet!!

So K, I just wanted to say thanks to you and your entire family for choosing me to capture your special memories. Your family was lots of fun (and just a little crazy), and I hope you enjoyed your session as much as I did! Here's your sneak peek... I'll let you all know when the entire session is ready.

Expecting!

2009-06-09T21:46:00.008-05:00

I had the pleasure to photograph the sweetest couple this past weekend. B&K are expecting their first child, and their excitement was so evident!

Their home was absolutely lovely, and we had many great photo ops (even though we didn't venture outside due to rain). The nursery was adorable, and I thought the story behind the chair and ottoman was so touching. B had found a chair she loved, but at a price she didn't. So they purchased a similar style chair and ottoman at a more reasonable price, and K's mother upholstered them for the nursery! Not only did they fit the decor perfectly, but what a loving gift for baby to treasure!!

While B was lovely in the maternity shots we took of her alone, we did ask for K's participation in some as well. So K, here are a few "paternity" photos too!!!

It was so nice to meet you, B&K! How's this for irony: K and my husband were coworkers a few years back, but we had never met before and they did not know who I was when they booked me off my website. Small world!

Speaking of small... I cannot wait to photograph your new baby next month! I sure do love me a squishy, naked baby (maybe in a cute hat)!!

Senior Guy- Class of 2009

2009-05-19T09:02:00.006-05:00

This session was a long time in the planning stages... we had originally planned to do outdoor photos last fall, but that was derailed due to a basketball game/knocked out tooth incident! So... fast forward to this spring. The wet weather and scheduling conflicts put outdoor photos on hold, but we were finally able to squeeze in a studio session.

M was a good sport and we got some great shots!

I had a hard time deciding between color and B/W on some of these b/c the green shirts he chose really looked great with his eyes, but anyone who knows me knows I'm a B/W girl at heart! I like the more dramatic, moody lighting for senior guys... it seems to fit.

So, M (and mom B!), I hope you enjoy this quick preview. I'm almost done with the entire session and will have those to you VERY soon!