Family, Newborn & Wedding Photographer in South Bend, Indiana
photography for
all seasons of life
From growing families to big milestones, I offer a variety of
lifestyle sessions designed to feel easy, fun, and meaningful,
family sessions
Family sessions with me are relaxed, playful, and centered around connection. While we'll absolutely capture a few smiling-at-the-camera photos, my goal is to document your family as you are. the giggles, snuggles, movement, and little moments you'll want to remember years from now.
From the moment you book, I'll guide you every step of the way. You'll receive a detailed style guide to help take the stress out of choosing outfits, along with personalized location recommendations based on the look and feel you're hoping for. During your session, there's no pressure for perfect behavior or stiff posing. I gently guide and prompt while letting your children be themselves, creating natural images that truly reflect your family in this season of life.
newborn sessions
Those first few days and weeks with your baby are filled with tiny details, sleepy snuggles, and moments you'll never want to forget. My newborn sessions are designed to capture this season in a natural, relaxed way, focusing on connection and the beautiful reality of welcoming a new baby into your family.
Whether you'd like your session in the hospital shortly after birth (Fresh 48), in the comfort of your own home, or in my South Bend studio, I'll help create an experience that feels easy and stress-free. From planning assistance and wardrobe guidance to gentle posing and plenty of patience, I'll guide you every step of the way.
We'll move at your baby's pace, allowing time for feeding, soothing, and all the little moments in between. The result is a collection of timeless images that preserve these fleeting days and tell the story of your growing family.
engagement sessions
Whether you're recently engaged or simply want to celebrate this season of your relationship, engagement sessions are all about documenting your connection in a genuine and meaningful way. My approach is relaxed and natural, with a mix of gentle guidance and candid moments that allow your personalities to shine.
From helping you choose the perfect location to providing outfit guidance and planning assistance, I'll be there every step of the way. There's no need to worry about what to do with your hands or how to pose. I’ll guide you throughout the session while creating space for authentic moments to unfold naturally.
The result is a gallery filled with beautiful, timeless images that feel like you and tell the story of this exciting chapter in your lives together.
milestone & birthday sessions
The first year seems to fly by in the blink of an eye. From sitting up independently to first birthdays and all the milestones in between, these sessions are designed to celebrate your little one's personality and preserve this sweet season before it changes again.
Whether you're planning a milestone session, a birthday session, or a cake smash, I'll help create a relaxed and enjoyable experience from start to finish. With planning assistance, wardrobe guidance, and access to a variety of studio props and setups, we'll create timeless images that capture exactly who they are right now.
weddings
Your wedding day is made up of countless moments you'll want to remember forever—the big ones, the small ones, and all the emotions in between. My approach to wedding photography is a blend of gentle guidance and candid storytelling, allowing me to document your day as it naturally unfolds while making sure we capture all the important details along the way.
From the moment you inquire, I'll be there to help with timeline planning, location recommendations, and answering any questions that come up throughout the process. On your wedding day, my goal is to help you feel comfortable, present, and able to fully enjoy every moment.
The result is a gallery filled with timeless images that tell the story of your day and preserve the memories you'll cherish for years to come.
“She has photographed our group of 18 adults and 20 kids the last two years and makes it seem effortless.”
-Areeba Shaikh
“From start to finish she made the whole process as seamless as possible!”
-Dorothy Matthys
“Chaeney is always patient, flexible, and easygoing — even with our big family and little kids."
-Maggie Szczypiorski
FAQ
Just shoot me an email as soon as you’re ready! My schedule fills up fast, especially during busy seasons, so the earlier you reach out, the better chance you’ll have to snag a spot that works best for you.
Gallery turnaround time can vary depending on the time of year, but on average, you can expect your full gallery within 2–3 weeks. During busy seasons, it may take a bit longer. But don’t worry! I almost always send or post a sneak peek within a few days so you won’t be waiting too long.
Once you’re ready to book, we’ll schedule your due date (or your induction/c-section date, if you have one) as a placeholder. Then, you’ll keep me updated when baby arrives, and we’ll schedule the exact time for me to come to the hospital from there!
How can I book you as my family photographer?
how soon will i get my photos?
How does scheduling my fresh 48 photos work?
Absolutely! Pets are always welcome. But please let me know ahead of time, as some locations have rules about animals.
Yes! My cozy studio is located in South Bend and is available for family, milestone, and maternity sessions. You’ll see lots of examples throughout my website from past sessions held there.
Totally okay, he doesn’t need to! I love following kids’ leads and focusing on natural, candid moments. It takes the pressure off and usually makes for the sweetest photos. And if he happens to sit and smile for a posed shot? I’ll be ready for that too :)
are pets allowed to join the session?
do you have a studio we can use?
what if my son doesn't sit still for the session?
Inquire here
I’d love to work with your family and create something meaningful together
Let’s capture your memories before this season slips by
