Blog

Posted on

Embracing Empathy in Family Photography

Two girls in yellow dresses sit together, with one kissing the other's cheek, smiling.
Photographed by Thomas | © 2020 TK Photography | www.tkphotographychicago.com

Introduction: Embracing Empathy in Family Photography

Photography is more than just capturing images; it’s about capturing emotions, stories, and the unique dynamics of each family. At TK Photography, we understand that every family comes with its own set of experiences and expectations. Recognizing this, we strive to create an environment where every family feels welcomed and valued, no matter their story. In this blog, we delve into how an empathetic, child-centered approach can transform family photography sessions into memorable experiences.

Understanding and Adapting to Family Dynamics

Every family that steps into our studio brings a unique set of experiences. Some of our most cherished clients include neurodiverse children and those with special needs. These families often tell us they choose TK Photography because we truly see their child and meet them where they are.

Our focus is not on capturing a preconceived image of who a child should be, but on embracing and highlighting who they are. We believe in capturing the authentic spirit and personality of every child, understanding that beauty and joy are found in the genuine moments of connection and expression.

It’s our privilege to create a space where children can be themselves, without the pressure of expectations. We find that when children are comfortable and free to express themselves, the photos capture not just a moment, but the essence of who they are.

Creating a Welcoming Environment for All Families

At TK Photography, we pride ourselves on creating an environment that is not just welcoming but also understanding of each family’s unique journey. We know that the moments leading up to a photography session can be filled with unexpected challenges. Whether it’s sleep deprivation, the stress of planning, or the unpredictability of a child’s mood, we are prepared and empathetic.

Our philosophy is simple: families should feel welcomed exactly as they are. There’s no need for pretense or worry about fitting a certain mold. We celebrate the chaos, the unplanned moments, and the spontaneous laughter that often accompany family sessions. This approach allows us to relieve stress for families, assuring them that we are here to capture their real, unfiltered joy.

Capturing the Unique Joy and Character of Each Family

Our goal in every session is to capture the true joy and character of each family. We understand that these moments do not occur in isolation. The days and hours before the session, the tiny but significant events in a family’s life, all contribute to the story we aim to capture through our lenses.

We are not just photographers; we are storytellers who use our cameras to celebrate the uniqueness of each family. We recognize that the beauty of a family photo lies not in perfection, but in capturing the genuine essence of relationships and individual personalities.

A Special Note on Professionalism and Adaptability

Professionalism in family photography extends beyond technical skill with a camera. It encompasses the ability to adapt to the unique needs and dynamics of each family. This adaptability is especially crucial when working with neurodiverse children or those with special needs.

We approach each session with a flexible mindset, ready to adjust our techniques to suit the comfort and preferences of each child and family. Our team is trained to recognize and respect the individuality of every child, ensuring a positive and enjoyable experience for all.

Photographed by Sam | © 2019 TK Photography | www.tkphotographychicago.com

Conclusion and Call to Action

In conclusion, at TK Photography, we believe in the power of photography to capture the beauty of every family’s story. Our empathetic, child-centered approach has been recognized and appreciated by families and educational institutions alike.

If you are looking for a photographer who sees and appreciates the unique beauty of your child, or if you are a photographer who believes in a child-centered, empathetic approach, we invite you to contact us. Join us in our journey to capture the real, joyful essence of every family.

Posted on

Our Journey: Business, Community and Love Across Two Cities

Family of four sitting by a camper van on a sunny day, with trees in the background.

Table of Contents

Two children on scooters and an adult walk along a path near a lake with a city skyline backdrop.

From “Just Passing Through” to “Dang, We Live Here Now

When we first rolled up to Austin, we were supposed to be here for a little bit. A quick pit stop in Vanlife. A “Hey, let’s check this out and head back home” situation. But then, BOOM—next thing we know, we got Texas plates, our kids are saying “y’all,” and we’re googling the best brisket spots like it’s our full-time job. Somewhere along the way, it hit us—we didn’t just move here for a bit. We MOVED.

BUT if you’re wondering if we really left, well… Thomas still spends about 50% of the year in Chicago. So technically, we have shared custody of him with the State of Illinois. 😆 (and those Southwest points are off the charts!) Plus, the kids and I wouldn’t trade Chicago summers for anything—Lollapalooza, Stages Chicago, Macaroni Kid Chicago Midtown and all the city vibes… while Austin is out here feeling like the surface of the sun at 105°. 😎🔥

Home Ain’t Just a Zip Code

For us, home has never been about a spot on the map. It’s about the people. The real ones who hold you down, no matter where you are. Our Chicago crew—our team, our partners, our clients—you’re the reason TK Photography is still thriving, even when our family needed to plant some roots in Austin. Y’all showed up for us, supported us, and let us keep doing what we love, from wherever we are. That kind of love? You don’t take it for granted.

Keeping Our Chicago Hustle, Adding Some Austin Spice

We’re out here balancing two worlds like a circus act. We still got that Midwest hustle—never late, always grinding, and yes, we WILL still judge deep-dish haters. But Austin has definitely rubbed off on us. We haven’t fully gone cowboy mode yet (OK, Tiana has the boots, but let’s not get carried away), but we have learned to appreciate tacos at literally any time of day. And queso? Let’s just say it’s officially a food group in this house.

Vanlife taught us something big: community is bigger than where you lay your head. It’s the people you love, the connections you build, and the roots you grow—even if they’re stretched across cities and time zones. We’re committed to keeping those Chicago ties STRONG while letting Austin add its own weird, wonderful magic to our journey.

Shoutout to Our Day Ones

To every single person who has supported us—our Chicago team, our clients, our partners, our new Austin family—WE SEE YOU. We appreciate you. Because of y’all, we can make this work. Flights and business trips? Just another Tuesday for us. We’ll hop on a plane, jump on a call, or make whatever moves we need to keep TK Photography right where it’s supposed to be: within reach, no matter the miles.

16 Years and Counting—And We’re Just Getting Started

After 16 years in this game, we’ve seen it all. We’ve photographed newborns who are now getting ready for their Bar/Bat Mitzvahs. We’ve walked into homes where our baby photos are hanging next to our school portraits of the same kids. We’ve captured weddings, and now we’re snapping pics of those same couples with their growing families. Not to mention the countless career changes, life pivots, and glow-ups we’ve had the honor of documenting along the way.

Us Along the Way

We built TK Photography with sweat, passion, and a commitment to the people we serve. And that commitment? It’s not going anywhere. Whether we’re shooting in Chicago, Austin, or somewhere in between (Hey, Nashville!), just know—we’re always here, always connected, and always ready to capture the moments that matter.

Our world keeps getting bigger, and we have no idea where life is taking us next. But whatever happens, we’re rolling with it, arms wide open, and we hope you’ll stick with us on this crazy ride.

Thank you for being part of our journey—and for letting us be part of yours.

Cosmic Campground, NM

Posted on

How We Make School Picture Day Easy for Schools AND Parents (Yes, Both!)

Let’s be real: school picture day could easily turn into chaos, right? You’ve got kids who refuse to smile, parents wondering if they remembered picture day, and teachers juggling it all. But don’t worry—TK Photography has this down to a science. We’re here to make it easy for everyone, whether you’re running the school or just trying to get your kid to brush their hair that morning.”

What We Do for Schools (Spoiler: It’s A LOT):

When we say we’ve got schools covered, we mean it. Here’s the deal:

We Show Up FREE of Charge

For schools that don’t require images for in-school use, we bring our cameras, equipment, and expertise at no cost. Yes, FREE—schools don’t pay a single penny. Our income comes entirely from photo sales to parents.

Tiered Discounts for Schools That Need More

If your school needs additional services like images for yearbooks, IDs, databases, or composite files, we offer a generous tiered discount based on student photo sales:

  • Discounts range from 10% to 100%!
  • These discounts cover essential services such as:
    • ID and database photos
    • Class composite files for school use
    • Yearbook images (we even send formatted files ready for yearbook companies)
    • A Discount for Faculty and staff headshots schedule outside of Picture Day (relaxing photos during an in-service day?)

We Handle the Logistics

Your school sets the picture day schedule and informs parents—we’ll take it from there. From organizing the photoshoot to sending out galleries and reminders to parents, we ensure everything runs smoothly. Stress-free for you? Absolutely.

Minimum Photo Orders (Sometimes)

In rare cases, we may ask for a minimum number of photo orders to cover our costs. But beyond that, our goal is to support schools, make Picture Day effortless, and provide stunning, quality images.

What We Do for Parents (Because We’ve Got You, Too):
Let’s talk about how we make life easier for parents:

  1. We edit EVERY photo we deliver. That means no odd lighting or distracting details—just your kid’s personality shining through. Whether it’s a sweet smile, a silly grin, or that classic “I’m over this” look, we make sure every photo is polished and ready to be treasured.
  2. We give you options. Forget the old “one photo with a cheesy background” situation. We provide multiple unique images so you can pick the ones you love.
  3. We deliver right to your door. No more worrying about photo packets getting smooshed in backpacks or lost along the way. Zenfolio handles direct-to-home shipping, —no hassle, no drama.

Why We Do It:
Here’s the truth: school photos are more than just pictures. They’re snapshots of milestones, moments, and memories that families will look back on for years. That’s why we go the extra mile—for schools, for parents, and for the kids who might not realize how much these photos will mean later.

At the end of the day, we’re here to make school picture day a win for everyone. Schools don’t have to worry, parents get amazing photos, and kids? Well, they just have to show up with their best smile (or at least try). Thanks for letting us be part of your community—we can’t wait to capture even more memories this year!

Posted on

Free Fun in Chicago: TK Photography’s Picks from Rent.com’s Guide

A child rides a scooter on a path with a city skyline in the background.

Chicago is a city full of life, adventure, and stunning sights—and many of them are completely free! If you’re looking to explore the Windy City without breaking the bank, Rent.com has put together an amazing guide on free things to do in Chicago, and we at TK Photography are thrilled to be part of it!

This guide covers everything from iconic landmarks to hidden gems, making it perfect for families, visitors, and locals alike.

Table of Contents

Highlights from the Rent.com Guide

Here are just a few of the top spots you’ll find in the Rent.com blog post:

  • Millennium Park: Famous for The Bean, this park is also home to beautiful gardens, open spaces, and public art installations—ideal for a family day out.
  • Lincoln Park Zoo: As one of the few free zoos left in the U.S., this is a must-visit spot for families, offering incredible animal exhibits and fun learning opportunities.
  • Chicago Cultural Center: Enjoy free art exhibits, concerts, and one of the most stunning interiors in the city, including the world’s largest Tiffany glass dome.
  • Navy Pier: While many attractions at Navy Pier come with a price, the stunning lake views, outdoor spaces, and free seasonal events make it worth a visit.
  • Northerly Island: This nature lover’s paradise offers trails, open spaces, and stunning views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan. It’s a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle and connect with nature—all for free!
  • Free Museum Days: Chicago’s world-class museums, such as the Art Institute and the Field Museum, offer free admission days—perfect for getting your culture fix.

Northerly Island

Northerly Island is one of our favorite hidden gems in Chicago. This nature lover’s paradise offers beautiful walking trails, open spaces for family fun, and breathtaking views of both the city skyline and Lake Michigan. It’s a peaceful escape right in the heart of the city, and best of all, it’s completely free!

Capture Your Adventures with TK Photography

As you explore these free attractions, don’t forget to capture those priceless family moments. Whether you’re snapping a photo in front of The Bean, enjoying a sunny day at Navy Pier, or soaking in the natural beauty of Northerly Island, TK Photography specializes in helping families capture these experiences in a natural, relaxed way.

Curious to discover our favorite spot in the city or want to learn more about our work? Reach out today and let’s create lasting memories together. And don’t forget to check out the full list of free things to do in Chicago in Rent.com’s guide here!

Posted on

A Day in the Life Photographing a Kids Festival

A Day in the Life Photographing a Kids Festival

Every summer, my family and I gear up for one of our favorite traditions: running the photobooth at some of the biggest music festivals in the country. We’ve just celebrated our 6th year at Kidzapalooza, the lively kids’ area at Lollapalooza, and are diving into our second year at Austin Kiddie Limits, the family-friendly zone at Austin City Limits. This isn’t just a job for us; it’s a chance to immerse ourselves in the vibrant festival atmosphere, enjoy incredible music, and connect with a community of like-minded, kid-loving business owners.

Table of Contents

The Morning Hustle: Setting the Stage

Our festival days start early, as we jump into setting up the photobooth. There’s a lot to prepare—backdrops, cameras, and ensuring everything is perfectly in place. At Kidzapalooza, we’re surrounded by the buzz of excited children and their parents, all ready for a day of music and fun. Over at Austin Kiddie Limits, the Texas sun greets us, and the anticipation builds as we prepare to capture memories that families will cherish for a lifetime.

But it’s not just about the setup. One of the perks of working these festivals is getting to see some of the best artists perform live. From the soulful tunes of Mumford and Sons to the electrifying performances by Labrinth and Childish Gambino, we’ve had the chance to enjoy world-class music while doing what we love. Watching Chance the Rapper light up the stage or grooving to The Q Brothers and The Pop-Ups with our kids is an experience that blends our professional work with personal joy.

Capturing the Magic: Photobooth Fun

Once everything is in place, the photobooth becomes the heart of the kids’ area. At Kidzapalooza, we’ve seen toddlers dressed as mini rock stars and families in full festival-themed costumes. Each photo captures a moment of pure happiness, a snapshot of the festival’s magic that families can take home with them.

In Austin, the vibe is just as energetic, with its own unique flair. Kids pose in cowboy hats, families embrace the eclectic Austin style, and sometimes even pets join in on the fun. The diversity of the people we meet and the creativity they bring to the photobooth make every day a new adventure.

More Than Just Music: A Community of Kid-Loving Vendors

While the music is a major highlight, what makes these festivals truly special is the sense of community. We’re surrounded by other kid-loving businesses and vendors who share our passion for creating a fun, safe, and engaging environment for families. Working alongside these incredible vendors, whether it’s at Kidzapalooza, Austin Kiddie Limits, or local events like Bubblespalooza with Bubbles Academy, is always a pleasure. It’s a supportive network where everyone is dedicated to making the festival experience unforgettable for the little ones.

We’ve also had the chance to collaborate with local businesses at events like the Chicago Baby Shower and the Hippo Social Club’s dog-friendly 5k in Austin. Each event offers a unique opportunity to connect with families and other businesses that prioritize fun and community.

A Family Affair: Working Together, Playing Together

The best part of this journey is that it’s a family affair. My husband and kids are just as involved in the festival fun as I am. Whether they’re helping set up, testing the equipment, or just enjoying the music, it’s a way for us to bond, share experiences, and create memories that we’ll cherish forever.

As we pack up after a long day, there’s a deep sense of satisfaction. We’ve been a part of something bigger—capturing the essence of these festivals, one photo at a time. And as we head home, tired but fulfilled, we know we’ll be back next year, ready to do it all over again.

From the electrifying performances by artists like The Killers and Childish Gambino to the camaraderie of working with amazing vendors, every festival season leaves us inspired and excited for what’s to come. Here’s to many more years of music, memories, and family fun!