Children Photography

Because They Won’t Stay Little Forever…

From tiny fingers and first wobbly steps to missing teeth and growing independence, childhood is a series of ever-changing moments—each one more fleeting than the last. Portrait and milestone sessions are about more than just beautiful images; they’re about freezing time, preserving the details, and giving you something to hold onto long after the moment has passed.

One day, you’ll look back at these photos and remember the way their little hand fit in yours, the sparkle in their eyes, and the pure joy of childhood. And one day, they’ll look back at these images and see just how loved they’ve always been.

Let’s capture these moments before they slip away.

Why Viewing a Full Gallery Matters

A single photo can tell a beautiful story—but a full gallery captures the entire journey.

When you book a session with me, I don’t just deliver a handful of “perfect” shots; I document the real, unfiltered essence of your children. The big, joyful moments. The quiet in-between ones. The way your child's nose wrinkles when he/she smiles. The laughter that erupts after a silly joke.

By viewing a full gallery, you’ll see exactly what I deliver—natural, heartfelt storytelling that preserves your family as you are. I want you to trust that every session results in a collection of images that, together, tell your story in the most beautiful way.

Take a look, immerse yourself in the moments, and envision the memories we can create together.

Empowerment Session

Icon Session

Milestone/Cake Smash Session

What to Expect

Picture of young girl in cream colored dress holding blue flowers and sitting on a sofa looking up at the camera. Photo taken in Warrenville, IL

1. Say Hello

Start by filling out an inquiry form for the session you're interested in. This is where you can share your vision—whether you’re drawn to an outdoor setting or a studio session, who will be part of your photos, and if there’s a specific season you’d love to capture your child in. If you already have a location in mind or a particular feel you’re going for, this is the perfect place to share your initial ideas so we can begin bringing your session to life.

2. Booking Your Session

Once I receive your inquiry, we’ll find the perfect date for your child’s session. To officially reserve your spot, a signed contract, completed questionnaire, and $100 retainer fee are required.

 

The questionnaire is more than just paperwork—it’s a way for me to truly get to know your child. The details you share help me connect with them from the very first hello, making them feel seen, valued, and comfortable in front of the camera. This connection is what allows me to capture their true personality in a way that feels natural and genuine, so I encourage you to take your time filling it out. I promise, this isn’t just busy work—it’s the secret to creating portraits that feel like them.

 

With your date secured, the fun begins! We’ll start tailoring the session to your vision—choosing outfits that reflect your child’s personality while keeping everything beautifully coordinated. You’ll also have access to my client closet at no extra cost if you'd like to explore curated wardrobe options. We’ll go over location choices in more detail and fine-tune every element to ensure the session is a perfect reflection of your vision.

Two boys lying on their bellies during sunset under autumn colored trees. Taken at Danada Farms in Wheaton, IL
Picture of young girl leaning up against a tree during the fall. Picture taken at St James Farm in Warrenville, IL

3. Your Child's session day

Get ready for a fun, relaxed, and laughter-filled experience! During our time together, you can expect high energy, lots of funny noises, and probably a few happy squeals as I capture your child's personality.

 

I take plenty of photos to make sure we capture the perfect moments—both the beautifully composed shots and the in-between, candid magic that truly tells your child's story.

4. Choose your favorite images

Within three days of your session, you'll receive an email with a link to your online proof gallery. This gallery will include 2-3 fully edited images, giving you a preview of the final look and feel of your photos. The rest of the gallery will feature unedited proofs—straight-from-the-camera images where you’ll focus on composition and expressions rather than final edits.

From here, you’ll select your favorites! Your session includes 10 images, but you’ll also have the option to purchase additional images for full editing. If your proof gallery contains 40 images, you can even choose to upgrade and receive the entire collection.

Picture of two boys with their young sister all standing with their arms around one another and smiling at the camera.
Young girl leaning up against a vintage school desk with her other hand on her hip. Photo taken during a mini session in Warrenville, IL

5. Receive & Enjoy Your Final Gallery

Once you've selected your favorite images (don’t worry, I’ll guide you through this simple process!), I’ll get to work perfecting them. Your fully edited gallery will be delivered within two weeks, ready for you to download and cherish.

 

If you loved your experience as much as I did, I would truly appreciate a Google or Facebook review—it means the world to my business! And don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family—word-of-mouth referrals help me continue capturing beautiful moments for amazing families like yours.

 

The final step? Planning your next session! Whether it’s holiday portraits or making milestone photos an annual tradition, I can’t wait to see your child again and create more unforgettable memories together!

The Details

Pricing

Photography isn’t just about pictures—it’s about preserving the love, laughter, and fleeting moments that make up your story.

I offer a variety of packages designed to fit different needs. Every session includes a personalized experience, carefully curated editing, and a gallery of images that authentically reflect your family.

Packages starting at $300

Featured Blog Posts

This is where stories come to life—where I share heartfelt moments from recent sessions, tips for stress-free family photos, and inspiration to help you make the most of your memories. Whether you're looking for outfit ideas, behind-the-scenes peeks, or a reminder of why these fleeting moments deserve to be captured, you’ll find it all here.

Grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and stay awhile. I can’t wait to share these stories with you!

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What's New on the 'Gram

SANTA!!! I KNOW HIM!
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You guys have seen my Baking Spirits Bright sessions, right?  These incredibly fun sessions become even more fun on Sunday afternoon when Santa comes to the studio and bakes with your family.
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Because Santa is new to my studio, I wanted to introduce Santa Steve.  He’s raised three elves of his own down in Bourbonnais with Mrs Clause.  When he’s not at the North Pole, he helps kids from ages 1-92 at his local park district.  And lucky for us…I was able to steal him away from his Oakbrook Mall Santa job this season.  What makes Santa Steve so unique is the way he interacts with your kid/s.  His soft spoken voice immediately relaxes even the shyest little ones and he right away asks them questions (and brings up things only mom/dad and Santa would know…with the info given in your pre-session questionnaire). He tells them stories about the North Pole and creates so much magic for these kids.  This is much more then a “what do you want for Christmas” visit…this is an experience.
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To celebrate Santa Steve’s second season with Novella Photography, I am offering $50 off any Santa sessions booked between today and Saturday. Your session includes 10 edited photos of your choice as well as a $50 print credit so you can start displaying those memories for the kids to look back on.
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Pictures shown here are from Santa Steve’s visit with Novella Photography LAST year.  This year he’s got himself some new digs and the backdrop/theme will be baking cookies (see my “Bakjng Spirits Bright” session for photo examples.  It will be that backdrop but adding in Santa).
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$50 discount will be credited on your final session invoice.
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Link for more info and to book in Bio.
READY OR NOT… HERE COMES CHRISTMAS! 🎄
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And apparently, a little flour too! 😂
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Tomorrow officially kicks off my 2026 Christmas sessions, and I could NOT be more excited!! ❤️
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The sets are ready, the camera batteries are charged, and I'm preparing for all the giggles, snuggles, holiday magic, and probably a little bit of chaos (the good kind, of course!).
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✨ Haven't booked your Christmas photos yet? THIS IS YOUR SIGN! ✨
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There are still a few spots left across some of my holiday themes, but once they're gone, they're GONE!
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And here's the best part… you won't be waiting until Christmas Eve to get your photos back! 😉 My goal, as always, is to have everyone's beautifully edited holiday images delivered by December 1st. Plenty of time for Christmas cards, gifts, and showing them off!
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https://book.usesession.com/i/XpHwEW2Nz
Wrapped in Christmas is the perfect mix of Christmas charm and playful holiday fun.  Dress it up in your holiday best or let the kids steal the show surrounded by presents bigger than they are!
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And while the presents under the tree might be forgotten in a few years…the memories of those little faces, tiny hands and sweet holiday snuggles are the gifts you’ll treasure forever.
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Link for more info and to book is in the bio. 
#napervillephotographer #warrenvillephotographer #bigbows #christmasmini #wheatonphotographer
Who says Christmas photos have to look the same year after year?
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Introducing Christmas Reimagined…a little less traditional, a little unexpected and a whole lot of holiday fun.
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I love a classic Christmas photo as much as the next person, but sometimes it’s fun to throw tradition out the window and try something completely different.
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This set up is for families who love a little personality and photos that stand out from the crowd.
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Because Christmas memories don’t have to be traditional to be MAGICAL.
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Being held the morning of Oct 31st and afternoon of Nov 1st.  To book and for more info…follow the link in my bio or DM me.
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#nontraditionalchristmas #christmasmini #napervillephotographer #warrenvillephotographer #wheatonphotographer
What if they could step inside a Christmas Story?  This session is so much more than posing in front of a camera.  In this Kids Only experience we will laugh…play…imagine.  All while capturing it at this precious age.  This is what Christmas looks like thru their eyes.
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Don’t wait to get on the calendar for this one of a kind experience. 

#napervillephotographer #warrenvillephotographer #gingerbread #christmasminisessions #christmasminis
You asked…I listened.  I baked up 3 more spots.  You guys keep selling this session out.  And with good reason!  Book yours before the flour runs out!!!
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#holidayminisessions #minisession #bakingspiritsbright #napervillephotographer #warrenvillephotographer

email : knovellaphotography@gmail.com

follow me on Facebook and instagram @novella.photos

located in warrenville, il

serving Naperville, warrenville, Wheaton, winfield, aurora, Lombard, downers grove, Lisle, glen ellyn, Woodridge, oak brook, elmhurst, and other surrounding western suburbs of Chicago