As a local brand photographer based in the Chicago suburbs, I’ve had the privilege of working with incredible small businesses. Recently, I had the pleasure of capturing branding photos for The Barn Boutique, a charming clothing store located in Geneva, Illinois. Established in September 2016 by a mother and her two daughters, The Barn Boutique began in an original barn in Geneva and has since grown into an established online boutique offering trendy clothing and accessories for women of all ages and sizes.
Mackenzie Livingston, the current owner, carries on her family’s rich history in the fashion industry. Her grandmother owned “The Teen Shop” in downtown Geneva during the 80s and 90s. Mackenzie is proud to continue this legacy of fashion and community. The Barn Boutique remains a go-to destination around Chicago suburbs for modern, trendy clothing and accessories.
Our goal was to create images that felt bright, warm, and inviting, mirroring the experience customers they can expect when they visit The Barn Boutique. Mackenzie wanted headshots that showcased her in the space, along with photos that highlighted the store’s beautiful interior. We collaborated to plan a shot list and coordinate outfits that aligned with her brand’s aesthetic.
Side note here… if you haven’t been to Barn Boutique, you need to visit! It’s located inside Wilson Street Mercantile, a curated space that has the feel of an old home. Mackenzie shares her boutique space with other talented, wonderful small businesses.
The store itself is simply beautiful. With its curated displays and warm tones, it perfectly reflects Barn Boutique’s mission of offering high-quality, stylish pieces. Thus, capturing the “vibe” of the boutique was a big part of this brand photography session! I wanted every photo to convey the same warmth and charm that Mackenzie and her team bring to their customers daily.
Mackenzie’s headshots were taken with her in various outfits that represented her style and the boutique’s vibe. Each shot emphasized her style and connection to her family’s history in fashion.
Brand photography isn’t just about taking beautiful photos; it’s about telling a story. For Mackenzie and The Barn Boutique, that story is rooted in family, community, and a passion for fashion. These photos are designed to help customers connect with Mackenzie and feel inspired to shop with confidence, whether online or in-store.
Working on this project reminded me of why I love being a brand photographer. Helping local businesses like The Barn Boutique share their story through imagery is incredibly rewarding.
If you’re a small business owner looking to elevate your brand with professional photos, I’d love to help. In this digital age, online presence and visuals are SO important! As a local brand photographer, I’m here to create images that capture the heart of your business and help you connect with your audience. Let’s work together to bring your vision to life, just like we did for The Barn Boutique. Contact me here and let’s get the conversation going!