I’m a wife, girl mama x2, and lifestyle photographer based in Northwest Indiana. Most days you’ll find me with a coffee in hand, chasing toddlers, editing in cozy clothes, or dreaming up my next creative shoot.

I specialize in capturing families, motherhood, love stories, and all the beautiful chaos in between. So, the real-life, giggle-filled, messy, magical moments you’ll want to hold onto forever. I’m all about photos that feel like you: honest, warm, and full of connection.

Whether we're laughing through a family session or documenting a milestone, I promise to show up with patience, heart, and a little bit of silliness (especially if it helps your kids smile). I can’t wait to tell your story.

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I'm Chaeney

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Cherry Beach, Michigan Photography | VanTornhout Family

Families

April 1, 2025

child smiles during family photoshoot in berrien county michigan

Last summer, I had the pleasure of photographing the VanTornhout family at Cherry Beach (13897 S Cherry Beach, Harbert, Michigan), a hidden gem near New Buffalo. This peaceful spot is a perfect place for family photos, and it’s not too crowded, making it a special retreat for those who discover it.

A Windy Yet Beautiful Beach Session

Although the evening was windy, we made the most of it! The wind added a playful element to the session, and we still enjoyed a stunning sunset. The natural beauty of the beach, combined with the love and energy of the VanTornhout family, made this photoshoot one of my favorites.

A Child-Led Approach to Photography

During every session, I take a child-led approach to ensure the experience is fun and stress-free for everyone. If your child wants to collect rocks, we’ll take a moment for that. If they need to run and play, we’ll do it! A dance break? Absolutely – just let me know the song, and we’ll have a blast!

As a mom of two toddlers, I understand that kids’ moods can be unpredictable during photoshoots. Don’t worry if your child isn’t cooperating or isn’t feeling camera-ready. It’s completely normal, and I embrace it! I’ve learned to be flexible, patient, and playful because I want both parents and kids to enjoy the session as much as possible.

Staying Calm and Positive: The Key to a Successful Session

The most important tip I give to parents is to stay calm and positive. Kids are incredibly perceptive, and your mood affects theirs more than you might realize. Keeping a relaxed, happy attitude will help your child feel comfortable and make the session more enjoyable for everyone.

A Rockstar Kid: Proof That Bedtime Doesn’t Always Mean a Meltdown

During this session, the sweet little girl you see in the photos was well past her bedtime (thanks to those late summer sunsets!). Despite that, she was a total rockstar. Honestly, if it were me, I’m not sure I’d be in as good a mood if I were sleep-deprived and followed around by a stranger with a camera. But she was amazing, and it made for some truly special moments.

Are you ready to set up your summer photo session with me? Click here! 🙂

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