Portfolio
Children & Families
Family sessions at my Highland Park studio or the parks and beaches along Chicago’s North Shore are relaxed, fun, and full of personality. I’ll guide you through the experience and capture the connections that make your family uniquely yours.
Every stage is worth celebrating.
From little ones and teens to adult children and multiple generations, families are always changing. Portraits preserve the relationships and moments that make this chapter of your family’s life special.
Room to be yourselves.
Whether your children are shy or full of energy, I’ll help everyone feel comfortable and engaged. Guided posing and playful prompts leave room for genuine expressions, laughter, and the unexpected moments you’ll love.
Testimonials
“Julie has such a wonderful eye and such an easy demeanor. We have loved Julie’s photography from the time when our kids were 4 and 6 when she photographed them for our family portraits. Now they were 20 and 22! Through all these years, Julie has beautifully chronicled our children and our family. From holiday cards to exquisite portraits, she has captured special moments that we are so grateful for. I highly recommend Julie Kaplan Photography not just for her artistry but for who she is as a wonderful person.”
– Lynn
“For the past 15 years, we’ve trusted Julie to photograph our family every fall for our holiday cards and updated family portraits to give as Christmas gifts. Our kids absolutely adore her and look forward to seeing her every year. Every session has been unique and different, and Julie always finds a way to make it fun and relaxed. She is wonderful to work with, and we look forward to our family photo session with her every year.”
– Susan
“Julie has been taking family photos for many years. It is a pleasure to work with her; her photographs are beautiful and capture the most special moments. I have many treasured keepsakes from Julie Kaplan Photography. I highly recommend!”
– Laura
LET’S MAKE MEMORIES
Your family, just as you are.
Let’s create portraits you’ll love seeing in your home for years to come.
Children & Family Session FAQs
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I photograph families through every stage of life—from young children and teens to adult children, couples, and multi-generational families. Whether you’re celebrating a new chapter, gathering everyone together, or simply want updated family portraits, I love creating images that tell your story.
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Sessions can take place at my Highland Park studio or at beautiful outdoor locations throughout Chicago’s North Shore, including parks and beaches. We’ll choose a location that fits your family’s personality and the style of portraits you love.
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Before your session, we’ll talk about wardrobe ideas and what will photograph beautifully. I’ll help you choose colors, textures, and styles that coordinate without feeling too matchy-matchy, so your portraits feel timeless and authentic.
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Absolutely. Extended family and generational portraits are some of the most meaningful sessions I photograph. Whether it’s grandparents with grandchildren, adult children with their parents, or the whole family together, these images become treasured reminders of the people and relationships that matter most.
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Yes! While families are my specialty, I love photographing couples at every stage—from engagements and anniversaries to simply celebrating your connection. These sessions are relaxed, natural, and focused on capturing the way you are together.
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Yes. The teenage and young adult years are such an important part of your family’s story. Whether it’s celebrating a milestone, graduation, or simply capturing who they are right now, these portraits preserve a stage of life that changes so quickly.
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After your session, we’ll meet on Zoom to view your portraits together. I’ll help you select your favorite images and create artwork that fits your home and your family’s style.
You can choose from fine art prints, museum-quality wall art, albums, and handcrafted folio boxes—beautiful ways to enjoy your portraits every day.
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Yes. Every printed portrait purchase includes the matching digital file for personal use, allowing you to enjoy your images both in your home and digitally.
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Many families schedule sessions several weeks or months in advance, especially for fall portraits, holiday gifts, or milestone occasions. I recommend reaching out early so we can find the perfect time and location for your family.