Best family photographer Chicago

CHICAGO FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER

everyday moments as timeless memories

Family photos don’t have to be tedious

I say we make them FUN

It will just be like any other easy-going afternoon spent outdoors, playing games, laughing, and sharing long hugs.

I’ll be there capturing photos full of real personalities, love, and intimate moments - you know, the kind of memories that often spark up warm dinner conversations “hey, remember when ...

Family Portrait Photography

Beautiful Chicago family photography and artwork for every type of family - bold and full of energy; elegant and poised; young kids or adults kids; and families with a lot of relatives. The people who love and care for most, the people you do it all for.

Chicago Photographer Mariya Maximtsev

Meet Mariya

Hi I'm Mariya, and I’m a Chicago family photographer. I love hiking in National Parks and I always edit photos with buckets and buckets of tea.

Family Portrait Photography

"Mariya is a talented professional photographer.

We couldn't be any happier with the photographs she made for us! She quickly understands your ideas, needs, and desires. Also, I was very pleased with Mariyas promptness and flexibility with her schedule.

If you decide to make a professional photographs, I am recommending Mariya. You will be happy with the result!"

-- Yulia F.

"I had such a wonderful experience working with Mariya! We had our photoshoot in one of the Chicago neighborhoods. Mariya's portrait photography skills are amazing as she finds just the right angle to capture your best look! Taking photos sometimes may be a little nerve-wracking, but Mariya helps you calm down and open up. Her way of communicating with the model is very uplifting and inspiring. The end result made me feel so happy as the portraits turned out amazing! I'm very grateful for Mariya's professionalism and the portraits that she has created for me!"

-- Ambrina

"Mariya is truly a talented photographer. It was my first time getting professional headshots and she helped make the process comfortable and ultimately the photos turn out wonderfully from start to finish. She was helpful with deciding on clothing, scouting locations and helping with poses. I'm very pleased with the outcome and look forward to working with Mariya again!"

-- Melissa

"Mariya was amazing to work with! I have had a few professional shots done in my career, she was able to make it super easy and feel very comfortable while taking the shots. The locations she chose were very amazing in the shots and she was able to capture the right FEEL I wanted in my professional shots.

Not only was she very professional and talented at her craft, she is a fun person and made the whole experience enjoyable with her customer service!"

-- Ian

The Chicago family photographer who...

Helps you experience an effortless photo session without the headaches even when

  • You might not feel your best in front of a camera or you have no idea how to pose...
  • Your kiddos are very shy or the quite the opposite - have just a little too much energy ...
  • You are super busy and hope that the process and planning will be effortless and easy...

You can be confident that you do not have to stress about any of it! We'll create amazing photos of your loving family in a completely stress and worry-free way.

Tips from your local Chicago Family Photographer

How early should you plan a newborn photography session for your baby?

By Mariya Maximtsev | December 8, 2024

So when should you plan your newborn photography session? If you are looking for the classic bundled-up sleeping newborn baby photos, the really simple answer is within the first two weeks of birth, or 5-14 days old. Is this always possible or practical for the baby or the tired and recovering mom? Not necessarily. Even…

Family portraits in Chicago. Family of four at the Wrigley Building Riverwalk

Full Guide for Easy Chicago Family Portraits

By Mariya Maximtsev | November 25, 2024

Planning to take Chicago family portraits? You’ve come to the right place to get ready and fully prepared! In this guide, you will find everything you need to know about choosing a location, what to wear, and more! What Is Family Photography? Family photography is any pictures of individuals within a family. This may be…

Chicago Indoor Activities for Families on a Rainy Day

11 Chicago Indoor Activities for Families on a Rainy Day

By Mariya Maximtsev | October 6, 2024

Looking for fun ways to keep the kids entertained on a rainy day? Chicago has a variety of indoor activities for kids of all age groups, and there’s something for every family’s budget! From interactive museums to creative play spaces and action-packed adventures, you’ll find plenty of exciting options to make the most of your…