Maternity Session at Gabis Aboretum in Valparaiso, IN. Northwest Indiana family photographer.
Read MoreEmma + Andrew || Gabis Aboretum Valparaiso, IN Maternity Session
Rodseth Family || Gabis Aboretum Valparaiso, IN Maternity & Family Session
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As the winter sun cast its gentle glow over Gabis Arboretum in Valparaiso, IN, I had the privilege of capturing the joyous moments of the Rodseth family. Elise and Amelia, with their sister hugs and giggles, also adding an extra layer of sweetness to the session. Kristen, whom I met nearly three years ago during a neighborhood stroll, has become not just a friend but a cherished client. Watching her family grow has been a heartwarming journey, and it was a delight to document this special chapter as they eagerly await the arrival of their newest addition, due this April.
Maternity sessions hold a unique allure, capturing the tender moments of anticipation and hope as a family eagerly awaits the arrival of their little one. It's a privilege to witness and document these precious moments, each one telling a story of love and anticipation.
Mattingly Family || Indiana Dunes National Park Family Session
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Family Session at the Indiana Dunes National Park. Northwest Indiana Family Photographer.
Read MorePosz Family || Sunset Hill Farm Valparaiso, IN Family Session
Capturing the essence of family love amidst the breathtaking Fall colors at Sunset Hill Farm in Valparaiso, IN was an unforgettable experience with the Posz family. With their toddler son and adorable 6-month-old daughter, the session was brimming with warmth and tenderness. Parents beamed with affection not only towards their children but also towards each other, creating a beautiful atmosphere of connection. As the session drew to a close, their beloved pup joined us, adding an extra layer of joy to the memories we were creating. Sunset Hill Farm provided the perfect backdrop for this heartwarming family session, reminding us of the beauty of love, both human and furry, in the midst of nature's splendor.
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Charise + Logan || Valparaiso, IN Courthouse Elopement
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In the understated charm of the Valparaiso, IN courthouse, Charise and Logan exchanged vows in a December elopement ceremony. Among a select few, including Charise's grandparents, married 65 years, they embraced this intimate celebration of their love's next chapter.
Following the ceremony, we ventured outside the Valparaiso courthouse for portraits. Charise, radiant and poised, complemented Logan's sleek green suit. Their excitement was palpable, a testament to the journey they were embarking on together.
Their love, captured through many sweet candid moments, spoke volumes of their shared history and the adventures ahead. With simplicity and sincerity, Charise and Logan embarked on a new beginning, and it was a honor to document their first moments as now husband and wife.
Capturing Memories: An Extended Family Session at Dwell Vacations - Dahlia House
Nestled in the scenic beauty of Berrien Springs, MI, lies the exquisite Dwell Vacations - Dahlia House, a haven of luxury and charm. Imagine a week of laughter, love, and cherished moments as an extended family comes together for a summer retreat. As a photographer, I had the honor of being invited into their midst to document their unforgettable time together.
From the moment I stepped out of the car at the Dahlia House, I was captivated by its beauty and alluring ambiance. Amidst the lush greenery and tranquil surroundings, this property provided the perfect backdrop for our photo session. Against this picturesque setting, we embarked on a journey to capture not just images but timeless memories.
What ensued was a delightful blend of candid moments, playful antics, and posed portraits, reflecting the genuine bond and joy shared by this wonderful family. We had such a sweet time capturing the whole crew, cousin photos, adult sibling photos, etc. Each family unit also received a collection of updated photos capturing the essence of their individual dynamics, as well as the collective joy of being together.
As I left this session, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to document such a special occasion.
If you're considering a family gathering or reunion, let's connect to create your own timeless memories to cherish for years to come.
Secvair Family || Rogers Lakewood Park Valparaiso, IN Family Session
A Family Session at Rogers Lakewood Park in Valparaiso, IN
Read MoreMeeker Family || Sunset Hill Farm Valparaiso, IN Family Session
Join me as I look back on this beautiful Fall session with the Meeker family at Sunset Hill Farm in Valparaiso, IN. This session was filled warmth from the family and the glow of a fading sun and the vibrant fall colors. Sunset Hill Farm always provides a gorgeous landscape and it was so sweet to once again have the Meeker family in front of my lens in this glorious space.
I have had the privilege of capturing the Meeker’s for their one year anniversary and maternity photos when they anticipated the arrival of their third baby girl. Despite distance, Brittany (mom) and I have become great friends throughout the years as we’ve journeyed together on this wild ride of motherhood. So as the years go by and I see how fast kids grow up, it was all the more sweeter to capture these family photos for my friends to cherish forever.
Valparaiso, IN Winter Mini Sessions
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Step into the warmth of my in-home studio, where winter minis sessions unfolded against a neutral brown paper backdrop. Amid the simplicity, families shared tender moments that resonate with the essence of the season. Laughter filled the studio, creating joy-filled moments to be cherished for a lifetime.
Capturing the charm of winter against this neutral canvas was a delightful experience as a photographer. The versatility of these sessions allows the memories to become an integral part of homes year-round. Join me in reliving the magic of these cozy winter minis sessions.
Interested in booking your own studio session, please let me know! I’d love to chat more.
Buchelt Family || Valparaiso, IN Extended Family Session
As a photographer, there are sessions that leave a lastly impression on me, and this session surely was one of them. Whether it was the grandparents still giddy with love and affection towards each other after many years together, the children exploring the cockpit of 'Chippy' with wide-eyed wonder, or the whole family gathered against the backdrop of the plane's wings – each frame told a story of love, connection, and the beauty of family ties.
This blog post would not be complete without a shoutout to ‘Chippy.’ Chippy played a symbolic role in this session, it was more than a family plane. It was a testament to the adventures shared, the journeys taken, and the memories created. Including Chippy in the family portraits added a unique touch, reminding everyone of the adventures they've embarked on together and the countless skies they've conquered as a family.
With all that, I invite you to join me in celebrating the beauty of family, love, and the magic that happens when 'Chippy' becomes a part of the frame.
Kristen + Brady || Goldberry Woods Union Pier, MI Wedding
Within three weeks of Brady and Kristen getting engaged they married at the gorgeous Goldberry Woods bed and breakfast resort in Union Pier, Michigan. Their day was packed full of warm smiles, joyful tears and absolutely gorgeous Fall foliage. Enjoy this look back at this beautiful day!
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Stefanie + Adam || County Line Orchard Hobart, IN Wedding
Stefanie and Adam tied the knot on a beautiful June afternoon at County Line Orchard in Hobart, IN. Their day was filled with so much laughter and love. Such a wonderful couple to kickoff this year’s wedding season!
Vendor team:
Photographer - Erika Mattingly Photography
Venue - County Line Orchard
Florist - Sola Wood Flowers
DJ/Band - 27 Entertainment
Bakery - Cakes by Kelly
Bride Attire - Elegance Wedding, Designer "Blu by Morilee"
Groom Attire - Men’s Wearhouse
Make-up - Cora Downing
Tina + Michael || Chicago Museum Campus Elopement
Before Tina and Michael went to their intimate courthouse ceremony with a few family members, they decided they wanted to celebrate the occasion with photos along the Chicago museum campus lakefront. They live just a short walk away from the museum campus and so for their photos we stopped at many of their favorite spots. We also had to incorporate their deep love for ducks along the way!
I had such a sweet time with these two, and I’m excited to share a few from our time together here.
Jillian + Kent || Loyola Beach Engagement SessionChicago, IL
My family and I recently moved to Valparaiso, IN (still serving Chicago though!). So when it came time for Jillian and Kent’s sunrise engagement session, it was a 3:00am wake up call for me… Let me tell ya, it was so worth it! These two were truly a blast to capture. Their laughs were constant and their love seemed effortless. So stinkin’ excited to capture their wedding day this Fall.
Hana + Chris || Millennium Park + Union Station Wedding
I met Hana and Chris in Millennium Park on a crisp Fall day this past year. They planned to have their wedding ceremony in Southern IL in December, however, they still wanted to capture the beauty of the city of Chicago and so they decided to take their bridal portraits beforehand.
My time with them spent exploring Millennium Park and then Union Station was filled with such sweet love and laughter. Thankful to have played a small roll in their wedding celebrations.
And now, a thoughtful and much appreciated review from the bride:
We planned an elopement photoshoot in Chicago and loved working with Erika. She was not only professional but super easy and fun to work with especially during these stressful times. We also had to change locations a couple of times and every time she was helpful nailing down details. We also loved how she always came prepared and full of ideas — really, her optimistic and positive attitude helped get us through 30 degrees chilly Chicago winds.
The photos came out beautifully and couldn't have asked for more!
-Hana
Brinkman Family Session || Caldwell Woods
I remember when I first met Noah, the adorable little girl with the pink overalls. She was a newborn then but she’s over two years old now. And soon this family will be welcoming their third bundle of joy into the family. It honestly is such a joy to watch other kids grow up and then to help document these days for their family to cherish for years to come.
Here are a few sweet captures from my time with the Brinkman family.
Arrington Family Session || Caldwell Woods
Rebecca + John || Salvatore's Restaurant Intimate Wedding Chicago, IL
Vendors:
Florist - Shamrock Garden Florist
Bridal Gown - Glamour Closet
Groom Attire - The Black Tux
Reception Venue - Salvatore's Restaurant
Bakery - Bittersweet Pastry Shop
Videographer - Pipe Dream Productions
Gus + Belle || Chicago, IL Proposal
A couple weeks ago I got to capture Gus and Belle get engaged! Here’s the story behind this proposal location... Gus was the new kid at school in 8th grade. Then one day at recess Belle walked up to him under this gorgeous tree to say hi.
They’ve been together ever since.
Cody + Michael || Caldwell Woods Chicago, IL Couples Session
