I’m a wife, mama x3, 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.
Family
Seniors
Newborn
engagement



If you’re searching for a family photographer in South Bend, Indiana chances are you’re not just looking for perfectly posed photos…
You’re looking for:
As a mom myself, I know how overwhelming family photos can feel going into them — and my goal is to make the entire experience feel easy, relaxed, and even fun ✨
If your kids are wild, shy, silly, or don’t love sitting still…
You are exactly who I work with every day 🤍
My sessions are:
We’ll move, play, snuggle, and I’ll gently guide you the entire time so you’re never left wondering what to do.
-No stiff posing
-No pressure for perfect smiles
Just real moments, real connection, and photos that feel like you



There are so many beautiful spots around South Bend for family photos, depending on the look you’re going for.
A favorite of mine is
St. Patrick’s County Park — especially in the fall when the trees line up perfectly and everything turns golden 🍁
Other options include:
I always help my clients choose a location based on:





If you’re not wanting to deal with weather (or just love a more cozy, controlled environment), I also offer studio sessions in South Bend 🤍
The studio includes:
Studio sessions are perfect for:




For outdoor sessions, I always recommend:
Golden hour (right before sunset)
This is when you get that soft, warm glow that makes everything look magical ✨
Typical start times:
I know evenings can feel tricky with little ones, but I keep sessions fast-paced and fun so it never feels overwhelming.



This is one of the biggest stressors for moms — so I always try to make it as easy as possible.
I recommend:
Avoid:
After booking, I send a full styling guide so you don’t have to figure it out alone


If you’re worried about how your kids will do — I promise, you’re not alone 😅
A few simple things that help:
And truly — I’ve seen it all, and we always get beautiful photos 🤍


My goal is to make everything feel simple, seamless, and stress-free from start to finish.


If you’re looking for a family photographer in South Bend who:
I would absolutely love to work with your family!
You can reach out HERE to start planning your session

Inquire here
I’d love to work with your family and create something meaningful together
© 2025 chaeney layne Photography
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northern indiana + southwest michigan photographer
Make your most loving
memories last