There’s something incredibly special about watching love grow—not just between a bride and groom, but in the seasons that come after “I do.”

Years ago, I photographed Steve and Ashley’s wedding, not knowing then just how much our paths would continue to cross. Fast forward to last fall… and now I get to capture their family of three—with their sweet baby boy CJ in their arms, tucked into the golden hues of Cantigny Park.

Cantigny in the fall is always magic. But this session felt even richer because of the story behind it.

Steve and Ashley were calm and joy-filled—just like I remembered them on their wedding day. But now, there’s this new depth to their love… the kind that only grows in the late-night feedings, the everyday routines, the giggles and tired eyes and “we’re figuring this out together” moments of parenthood. It was beautiful to witness.

And CJ? He was such a champ. Smiley, snuggly, wide-eyed at all the color and texture around him. He made photographing them feel effortless—which is saying something when you’re working with a little one!

But here’s what I’ll never get over: I don’t take lightly what it means to be invited back into someone’s life years later. The trust. The full-circle feeling. The way a couple becomes a family—and they let you witness it through your lens.

That’s the kind of work that keeps me coming back, year after year.

Steve and Ashley, thank you for letting me be part of another milestone in your story. And CJ—you are one deeply loved little boy.