I Can Do Anything - Chicago Area Photojournalist

...through Christ who strengthens me.

I started my Monday with this FB post: "I have probably over committed myself this week but I am going to put my best foot forward and take it all on with a smile.  I can do anything. :) Have a great week!"

I looked over my jam packed week which included; volunteering two days at school, two meetings, and no less than three photo sessions.  Three sessions is a record for me. :) One of the "sessions" is a big event.  I am so blessed!

This blog post was going to be a fall themed one.  I had the image already in my head, I just had to go out and take it.  That's when I realize... my camera isn't working... OH MY GOODNESS!  <---- this is the rated "G" version of my thoughts.  I couldn't believe it, the busiest week (thus far) of my photography career and my camera doesn't work!  I called Nikon and they verified that my camera was malfunctioning... well... thank you.  I called Wolf Camera and they inform me that they are going out of business so they can't help me with a repair.  But the nice lady gave me a name of a local shop that might be able to help.  I searched the business "Metro Camera Repair" and no website but I got a phone number.  This whole time I'm trying to stay as calm as possible.  I remember to pray.  I call the number and a man casually answers, "Hello".  I think I've got the wrong number but it's the right number.  Mr. Jacob Kim tells me that he is closing for the night but to bring it in tomorrow and he will fix it for me the same day.  It is Monday night and all I can do is have faith that it is all in God's hands.

My husband tells me to keep my volunteering commitment Tuesday morning and that he will take my camera to Glenview for me.  He had to tell me a few times before I said okay. 

My husband reports - best case scenario Mr. Kim can fix it today; once he figures out what's wrong with it.  Worse case, two to three weeks to repair it.

Mr. Kim worked tirelessly all day today until he found the problem and the solution.  I prayed most of the day but I also felt a sense of calm placing it in God's hands.  I picked up my camera just a few hours ago and it is as good as new.  Mr. Kim was my angel today.  I told him I would pray for him every day this week.  He is a very humble and sweet man; not to mention efficient and reasonably priced. :D

God wants me to succeed, I believe it now more then ever.  I will work that much harder.

Metro Camera Repair

Owner: Jacob Kim

847-729-6656

615 Milwaukee Ave Glenview, IL 60025             

babY J: newborn session - Chicago Area Newborn Photographer

 

I am the proud tia/aunt of the beautiful little boy you see below.  Mom and Dad have wanted this baby for such a long time.  After a long difficult labor... tada...their little miracle is here. 

 

 







Mom has bounced back so beautifully.  Three days of labor is a not only a lot of work but so tough on your body. I know I didn't look this good a week out. 

I am sure mama feels; all that hard work was well worth it. 

 

 

 

He is so perfect.  :)

 

 

Dad is doing a great job stepping into his new role.  He has jumped right in like a pro, it is so beautiful to witness.  



 

 

 

Congratulations mom and dad! You guys are doing a great job.  It is amazing how much you grow as a couple when you become parents.  Enjoy these first few weeks as a "new" family.  We love you!



My Parents - Chicago Area Family Photojournalist

My parents celebrated 40 years of marriage in August.  They are a true example of what commitment and matrimony means.

I am, who I am because of them and their sacrifices. 

I love my dad's laugh, there is nothing like it.  I smile just thinking about it. 

I hope that I have my mom's grace.  I am so lucky she is my mom. 

I have no idea what they are laughing at but I love it.  We laugh all the time :)

Quinceanera - Chicago Area Quinceanera Photographer

I had a great time working with D and her family on these beautiful Quinceanera portraits.  A Quinceanera is not just another birthday party.  This day is very special for a Latina girl, it marks the transition from childhood to womanhood.  D has been dreaming, planning and anxiously awaiting this special day for a few years now. 

 

 



 

She selected a Paris theme for the event. D said she has plans to visit the beautiful city with her Godmother.

 

 

3 generations of family.

 

What is a fiesta without your BFF's by your side?  At first they gave me a few awkward smiles but then I asked them if there were going to be any boys at the party... they didn't answer they just smiled. 

Are your bags packed, Godmother?

This is D's great grandfather who made the trip all the way from Mexico.

 

 

God bless and protect you D.

Thank you V family for allowing me to be part of such a special day. 

A big thank you to Maggie who assisted me at this session.