-Free race day photo downloads below!- The Cardio Kidz Summer 2026 Series week 1 was this week in Arlington Heights, Illinois with young runners and their families gathering for another fun and energetic event. Participants starting at two can run age appropriate races while building confidence and staying active. Cardio Kidz focuses on encouraging kids to stay active in a positive, community-centered environment. Each week gives runners the opportunity to set goals, track im

One of the things I love most about engagement sessions is that there are no rules. Your engagement photos don't have to look like everyone else's. In fact, I encourage couples to think beyond the traditional engagement session concepts and choose something that feels authentic to their relationship. Years from now, I want you to look back at your photos and instantly remember what this season of life felt like—not just what it looked like. Recently, I photographed an engagem

There’s something really special about 4th of July celebrations. The mix of warm summer air, family time, backyard BBQs, fireworks, and kids running around barefoot in the grass makes the 4th of July a holiday full of fun and spectacle. This photo session that I took for Stroll Magazine's July 2026 cover was exactly that—simple, relaxed, and full of fun! This Arlington Heights family dressed in red, white, and blue and set up a backyard BBQ complete with hot dogs, lemonade, a

When clients are ready to book their photo coverage, they often don't think to consider that the photo start (or end) times may differ from the event start (or end) times. I'm here today to discuss not only what photo timeline planning for your event day looks like but also photo considerations during your planning phases. Whether you're planning a conference in Rosemont, a fundraiser in St. Charles, a company party in Schaumburg, or a gala in Arlington Heights, having a phot

One of the biggest questions I get before a branding session is, "What should I wear?" The answer is a little different than it would be for a traditional headshot session. Personal branding photography is about telling the story of your business, showcasing your personality, and creating images that connect with your ideal clients. Your wardrobe plays a huge role in communicating your brand and helping potential clients get to know, like, and trust you. Whether you're a real

Opening a new business is a major milestone. Whether you’re launching a storefront, opening a second location, rebranding, or celebrating a business expansion, your grand opening or ribbon cutting is more than just an event — it’s the official introduction of your business to the community. After spending months planning, preparing, and investing in your space, professional photography helps ensure those moments are captured in a polished and meaningful way. As a corporate e

If you’ve ever thought, “There’s no way my toddler will cooperate for family photos,” you are definitely not alone. One of the biggest concerns parents have before a family session is how their baby, toddler, or young child will behave in front of the camera. Parents often picture needing perfect smiles, kids sitting still, and everyone looking at the camera at the exact same time. The truth is - that’s not what creates meaningful family photos. As a family photographer serv

Planning a corporate event comes with a long list of moving parts. Between coordinating vendors, organizing schedules, managing guests, and making sure everything runs smoothly, photography is often one of the last details businesses think about — until they realize how important those images become afterward. Whether you’re planning a gala, company party, fundraiser, conference, or other corporate event in Arlington Heights, Schaumburg or the greater Chicagoland area, hiring

Businesses throughout Schaumburg and Chicago’s Northwest suburbs invest significant time and energy into planning corporate events, grand openings, fundraisers, and company celebrations. But once the event is over, many businesses miss one of the most valuable opportunities available to them: using professional event photography as an ongoing marketing tool. Professional event photography is about more than documenting what happened during an event. The images captured during

Jessica M. Photography's Simple Guide to Light, Comfortable & Joyful Outfits There’s something so carefree about summer sessions. Warm golden sunsets, bare feet in the grass, kids running freely, and that soft evening glow that feels almost magical. Summer family photos are meant to feel relaxed, connected, and full of life. What you wear plays a part in that — not by being perfect, but by helping you feel comfortable and confident so you can focus on loving on your people. I

The Barrington Area Library Baby Fair on April 25, 2026 brought together new and expecting families for a morning centered on connection, learning, and a little bit of fun along the way. It was a joy-filled space where parents could explore resources, ask questions, and simply enjoy time with their little ones. As an event and family photographer in Arlington Heights, I had the pleasure of offering a professional photo opportunity to capture families in this sweet and fleetin

The Spring 2026 season of Healthy Kids Running Series - Buffalo Grove is underway to bring together young runners and their families for the first week of this youth running program. The event focuses on encouraging kids to stay active, build confidence, and enjoy a supportive community environment. Healthy Kids Running Series is a five-week program designed to motivate children to lead active lifestyles while developing self-esteem and sportsmanship. Kids of all ages and exp

The Cardio Kidz Spring 2026 Series week 2 was this week in Palatine, Illinois with young runners and their families gathering for another fun and energetic event. Participants starting at two can run age appropriate races while building confidence and staying active. Cardio Kidz focuses on encouraging kids to stay active in a positive, community-centered environment. Each week gives runners the opportunity to set goals, track improvement, and celebrate personal accomplishmen

One of the most common questions I get as an Arlington Heights family photographer is, “Where should we take our family photos?” The good news is that the Arlington Heights area / surrounding Northwest suburbs offer so many beautiful options. Whether you're looking for natural greenery, an urban feel, or something cozy and personal, there’s a perfect spot for every family. Here I am highlighting some of my favorite locations for family photos in near Arlington Heights and why

Yelp Chicago hosted their Women Run the Burbs event at Brewpoint Craft in Elmhurst and it was filled with the most amazing women doing really cool things. This type of event highlights the amazing talent in the Chicago suburbs and left attendees feeling inspired, connected, and excited for the next event! The Women Behind the Experience Let's meet the women who shared their craft and passion for business and community. Kreative Blends Studio shared her talents of calligraph

Jessica M. Photography's Guide to Spring Outfits You'll Love There’s something about the fresh blooms, soft golden light, and that feeling of a new season beginning that makes everything feel a little lighter. If you’re planning your spring family session, you might be wondering what everyone should wear. I promise — it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. My goal is always for you to feel confident, comfortable, and truly yourselves. When you feel good in what you’re wearing,

Jessica M. Photography's Guide to Fall Outfits You'll Love Fall is the most popular season for family photos - and it's no surprise why! The colorful trees, cozy sweaters, apple cider, and cool weather. Bring it on! I know picking outfits for your whole family can feel overwhelming - I totally get it. I love helping clients feel confident and coordinated without feel stiff or matchy-matchy. These tips will help you choose outfits that look great on camera, feel comfortable,

Wondering what to expect from your wedding photographer? This FAQ answers brides’ most common questions so you can feel relaxed, confident, and excited for your wedding day.

While Amazon Fresh stores may be closing, let's take a look back on the holiday event I photographed at Amazon Fresh and all the festivities.

I'm Excited to Introduce the JMP Client Referral Program 🎉 Great clients know other great clients I believe the best photos start with personal connection. I am blessed to have the best clients that trust me year after year with their memories. If you’ve enjoyed working with me, now there’s a simple way to share the love and get rewarded for it with the JMP Client Referral Program . Why Referrals Mean So Much to Me Photography is personal. You don’t just hire someone with