Family Photos at Blackwell Forest Preserve | Wheaton Family Photographer

Some photo sessions just feel like sunshine—and this one with Macey (Little Pearl Breads) and her family was exactly that. We met up for family photos at Blackwell Forest Preserve in Wheaton, Illinois, and it couldn’t have been a more perfect place for what she had in mind: a lighthearted, picnic-style session where her two little girls could run wild and barefoot, just being themselves.

If you’ve never been to Blackwell, it’s one of my favorite places to shoot. It has a little bit of everything—tall grassy hills, wooded trails, water views, and wide open space where kids can let loose. It’s a dream location for family sessions. Especially for those looking for Naperville family photos with a natural vibe just outside the city.

Styling Whimsical Family Photos in Chicago Suburbs

Before the session, I worked with Macey to plan out the look she was going for. We landed on soft neutrals and light colors—easy on the eyes and perfect for the location. I brought along a cozy blanket to set the scene, and the girls showed up in the sweetest dresses, ready to play. We kept things simple and natural—less posing, more fun. They were all such troopers considering the temps decided to drop to mid-60s with some crazy windiness!

Planning is one of the most crucial steps of your family photos. Before we even take the photos, I want to know about your story. Where it all began, what your personalities are like, what are some of the favorite things you love to do together as a family, etc. All these questions help me to get a fuller picture so that I can help bring it to life in the photos. Outfits, colors, and location all play a part!

Macey is someone I admire a lot. She’s a wife, mom to two little girls, and also runs Little Pearl Breads, a sourdough micro bakery that has totally taken off. If you’re on Instagram or TikTok in the motherhood or crunchy space, you might’ve come across her (@littlepearlbreads). She teaches, inspires, and shares her love for baking and faith in a way that feels both assuring and joyful. She brings that same energy into her home life too—you can just feel the warmth when you’re around her family.

Memories That Matter | Naperville Family Photos

The best part of sessions like this is how laid-back they are. We laughed, the girls picked flowers, and ran around while Disney hits played through my trusty Bluetooth speaker. It was real and sweet and full of moments that matter.

Whether you’re based in Wheaton or looking for Naperville family photos with a dreamy outdoor vibe, Blackwell Forest Preserve is one of those spots that never disappoints. I’ve even included it in my suggestions for top 10 engagement photo locations (or families) in the west suburbs of Chicago!

And if you’re a mama dreaming of a session that captures your family as you are, I’d be honored to photograph that story for you.

Let’s plan something simple and sweet (shoes optional). Connect with me here!

Now back to scrolling through these UNREAL pics of a mama and her precious family: