I’m so glad you’re here.

The kDarling journal is a place for real session stories, thoughtful tips, and inspiration for families who want to preserve the moments that matter most. From maternity and newborn portraits to milestones, seniors, and the little in-between seasons, you’ll find stories and guidance to help you feel prepared and connected before your own session.

welcome to the journal

Joyfully, Kristin

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When Aiden’s mom told me she was planning a “Where the Wild Things Are” themed birthday, I was SO excited.  This was one of my favorite books growing up!  We kept the props simple to keep the focus on the birthday boy!  He LOVED his cake from SugarShaper95, which fit into the theme perfectly with yummy buttercream frosting and an edible fondant crown on top.

Where the Wild Things Are | First Birthday | Champaign County, IL

Babies, Champaign, Children, Connection, Family, Illinois, Love, Photography, Portraits, Toddlers

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The glow of an expectant mother is only closely rivaled by the glow of the “golden hour sun.”  They are both magical in their own special way.  One glows with the promise and hope of new life, and the other with the hope and promise of a beautiful evening and the promise and hope of a new day to come.

Suzy | Styled Maternity Session | Golden Hour | Champaign County

Babies, Champaign, Illinois, Light, Love, Newborns, Photography, Portraits

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When Kristin contacted me about photographing her newborn boy, Callen, I was so excited!  Newborn sessions are among my favorite, and Fresh 48 sessions in the hospital, are no exception.  Many times these sessions are taken to capture the first moments that older siblings meet their new baby brother or sister, and their reactions can be priceless!  Big sis Jocelyn had met her new brother the day before, but today she was getting to spend a bit more time with him during our session.  She was very curious about him, and understandably hesitant to share her mom.

Callen | Fresh 48 | Carle Hospital | Champaign, IL

Babies, Champaign, Childbirth, Children, Family, Illinois, Love, Maternity, Natural Light, Newborns, Photography, Portraits, Toddlers

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I love being a newborn photographer. Who wouldn’t love getting to cuddle sweet babies in their first few days of life?   Well, it’s not for the faint of heart let me tell you!  Being a newborn photographer is actually not as glamorous as you’d think!  Yes, you get to cuddle those sweet little darlings – […]

Rosemary

Babies, Champaign, Children, Connection, Family, Illinois, Light, Love, Newborns, Photography, Portraits, Pregnancy

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The Lemenager family has been coming to visit kDarling Photography every 3 months for well over a year – until Colt turned 1 anyway – then I had to wait 6 MONTHS to see Colt (and his family) for his 18 month session.  It was wonderful to see one of my favorite families again.  Let’s face […]

Lemenager Family

Babies, Champaign, Children, Connection, Family, Illinois, Light, Love, Marriage, Natural Light, Newborns, Photography, Portraits, Toddlers

103 N. FIRST ST.
FISHER, IL 61843

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serving families in Champaign - urbana & all of central illinois

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