You guys! Chicago is in Peak Fall and I for one am so loving the autumn colors! Every time I’m in my car driving down these side streets, my eyes are smiling looking out at such beautiful foliage. It just amazing how mother nature works. The quicker the cold air changes the more beautiful the leaves get. Well, this year I thanked my lucky stars because I had the pleasure of taking photos of the “R” Family before the snow hits Chicago! That’s right the past two years we had always taken photos on the first day of snow but not this year - we got a gorgeous fall day! We found this perfect spot in front of the Lily Pond in Lincoln Park. The boys looked so handsome - I mean how adorbs are this two brothers!!!! I love seeing their bond together - and I know that Sammy will always and forever look up to Coby for everything in life! Thank you Abbey and Andy for letting me be there to capture these two growing boys! If you are still interested in setting up a photo session with your family. Feel free to contact me via my website at www.naomiepsteinphotography.com/contact

We’re in peek fall here in Chicago - with our red maples blazing bright! Yes, fall is by far my favorite time of year to capture cute smiles in the Midwest! Why you ask? Well not only because of the fashion (hello layers) but also because weather in the 50-60 is comfortable to shoot in. You don’t have to worry about being a sweaty Betty or Eddy and can easily walk comfortably from one area to another - while keeping cool.

Last week I got a fun filled Friday with the “F” family! This is my second year photographing this cute bunch and I just love seeing Landon and Jonah grow each year (click here to view last years session) As we were finishing up our session Mom said - “some people need the latest boots or new coats but I’d rather spend my money on memories” - I held my heart and looked her in the eye and said thats why I do this! So you can hang up these photos in your house and remember how your kids looked that year. Thank you “F” family for being so rad in plaid!!! -xoxo

I don’t know about you, but come mid-October we are so in the Fall Spirit!. While highs may hit the 60s (hello Chicago!), the hint of a cooler breeze has us ready to pull out boots and make s’mores around a fire. With fall football season in full swing, we can’t help but dream about the fantastic season to come. We are jumping for joy with the “J” Family! We had an amazing picture perfect day with an early morning session. Baby E and baby brother J were so cute to capture at the Lincoln Park Nature Broad-walk. Heidi and Jonathan are amazing and it brings such joy to see these two become parents and have a party of now four!!! Thank you guys for a fun-day sunny Sunday.

You know those mornings when you open the door and take a deep breathe, the air is beyond fresh, cool and crisp that you just can’t help but find the sides of your mouth start to curl up – and yea – your in a full on smile. Well, that is exactly the type of day I had with the Sassy “S” Family. Yes, this fun bunch decided to book their family session and get in on the last warmer day before the snow hits the windy city! I have been with this family for four years and it amazing to see them grow each year and get cuter and yes… sassier! We had a five o’clock session and the lighting was perfect! Since they moved into a new place we decided to shoot in their hood and get more of a city vibe then a beach or garden. We had a blast and at the end some treats were definitely had by these three stunners! Thank you S Family for bringing me all the goodness last week!

Hellllllooooo sweater weather! Yes, Fall is finally here! That’s right Chicago is layering up, and I am so excited to meet all these amazing families. Last week I got to meet the Young family. A cute bunch who’s little ones have so much personality it was hard to keep up! I loved capturing their natural silliness. We had a fun day dancing in the dandelions and wild flowers and yes, even puddles! Thankfully the rain cleared up and we got these amazing shots at the Lincoln Park Nature Boardwalk. Thank you to these beautiful faces for keeping me “Young at Heart!”

Pose, Intelligent and Warmth are three words that I would describe Chicago’s Author of INFLUENCE REDEFINED. Stacey the owner of Stacey Hanke Inc exists to equip leaders within organizations to communicate with confidence, presence and authenticity, day in and day out. Combined, her team of mentors and consultants has more than 100 years of training experience. She has worked with executives, managers, technicians and sales leaders across the United States and on four different continents. Stacey and her team have diverse backgrounds in news & entertainment, sales & marketing, diversity & inclusion, organizational development & investor relations.

Stacey is also a keynote speaker. She mentors and works best one-on-one. Whatever your solution, the goal is always the same: Not to change you, but to help you confidently and consistently express your true self, Monday to Monday.®

Here I shot Stacey’s new branding for 2019, I’m so thrilled to have worked with her and help communicate visually who she is as a business leader and innovator.

They met the good old fashion way… by swiping. Yes, the new normal of meeting someone in the same city as you with your preferences is just an app away! It just takes one. Well, Haley found her needle in the haystack five years ago when she was on Jswipe. Ross and Haley’s first date was one for those rom-com’s on Netflix. Thats right, with his Bright Yellow 1994 Toyota Celica, he had picked up Haley from her parents house in Highland Park. They drove over to Nevin’s pub in Evanston for a drink and a bite. But, Haley was so shy she couldn’t speak a word at first. She just nodded, sipped and nibbled while Ross took the lead. Of course, he was a complete gentleman and after a few minutes Haley felt comfortable enough to engage in conversation. After a great dinner they drove to Thornwood Park in Wilmette where they layed down on the grass. Ross was smooth and wanted to show Haley the stars that’s when they shared their first kiss. Their Wedding will be held at the London House in Chicago on August 29th, 2020! I can’t wait to see you two walk down the aisle as husband and wife.

Wow!!! What a weekend it was for the Gutterman’s! We are so proud of Michaela for becoming a Bat Mitzvah this weekend. She was an absolute star on the B’mah and was a pro at reading her torah portion! The day was so lovely from the brunch at the service at Sukkah Shalom with close family and friends to the smashing party held at the Glen Club on Saturday night! LOLA EVENTS and HMR DESIGNS did such an amazing job with the decor and made the room look sensational! Michaela’s theme was gymnastics as she competes regularly with her Evanston Team Mates! Thank you Gutterman Girls for letting me be apart of your fabulous day! Mazels to the whole family :)

These two hearts found each other while studying in college. Several years later, they finally tied the knot! They both share that Hollywood smile but, were raised with Midwest values. As Eden (sister of the groom) had said “they were meant for each other and this day was a day in the making” Zach with his dry wit and Emily with her famous warm hugs are truly the perfect fit! They were so relaxed and both felt truly comfortable in their own skin. In fact even, their initials to their names spell out EZ! The morning started off with rain but cleared up during the middle of the day - it was a steamy day but luckily we got to shoot outside and the ceremony was held in the fabulous outdoor courtyard at the Bridgeport Art Center. Everyone looked beyond sensational!!! The evening was a non-stop dance party lead by the Gold Coast all stars and the delicious food by J & L Catering. The lovely flowers were created by Fleur were absolutely breathtaking and made the room eye catching and grand. Zach and Emily I wish you guys all the warm hugs in the world - much love!!!

Wedding Planner  Laura Kimmel
Venue:  Bridgeport Art Center

Catering:  J & L Catering

Florist:  Fleur

Lighting and Pipe & Drape:  Tablescapes

Linen:  BBJ Linen

Band:  Chicago All Stars

Photographer: Naomi Epstein Photography

Videographer: Whole Heart

Transportation: M & M

Photo Booth: Fotio

Makeup:  Leesi B Cosmetics

Hair:  Renee Feldman Studios

Fall is just around the corner! If you’d like to book your family photos - we are scheduling them out NOW!!! That’s right, I only have so many dates opened for family sessions and I want to make sure that you all get a chance to look up dates and get back to me asap! October is the best month to see the color change so if you want an autumn day - we have a limited time to get those smiles captured! ( October 1st - October 15th is when leaves will be changing)

Mini Sessions are 20mins $200

weekday only photo session (indoor or outdoor)

family of 4 ($25 per each additional head)

10 digital files included

Additional files are $50 each

Full Sessions are one hour $650

week or weekend hour photo session (indoor or outdoor)

Family of 4 ($25 per each additional head)

All digital files included

Book your session now by clicking on the photo below!

Sunsets facing the west are the best. It’s amazing to see folks but old and young flock over to the beach at the end of the day to say goodbye to another amazing day. In Santa Monica the sun sets over the mountains. Leaving dreamy cotton candy skies. The “G” family wanted to get some beach photos and I recommended going at sunset. I love shooting at this time of day because of the romantic feel the lighting casts on my subjects. Also, shooting on a beach during the day is super challenging. So I was thrilled that we can photograph this cute family in the evening.

I met the “G” family through an amazing friend named Jen. I knew any friend of her’s would be a friend of mine. It was instant kismet!!! We all had the exact same spirit within. Simply stated good people vibe with good people - not to mention that we all grew up in the Midwest.

We shot in Malibu at Dume Point, and had an unusually sunny morning. Typically at this time of year, the marina layer holds (causing overcast skies) and then burns off later on in the day, but this past Saturday was clear as a bell. (Case in point you can see from miles - see below) The G family were ah-mazing, and totally trusted my vision as I had told them I knew of a great spot that has the coast line… the only thing is we had to hike up to the peak to get that gorgeous view. They were game, and so was I. As we walked up the path, mom did it in 4’ inch wedges - on trails that were hard to walk through with the uneven terrain, but the pay off was that we got some amazing shots of that California coast line!!! The kids (L and E) were so amazing! We laughed as we were all decked out in nice clothes as we ran up the dirt path past the hikers and fireman who (were training for their morning workouts!) I had a blast with these West Coast Cuties and can’t wait to see them grow. Thanks “G” fam for letting me spend the morning with ya!

Putting her best face forward Kerstin killed it! We talked about what types of roles she is going for and how to best portray that in her Headshots. I love the variety this gal brought. Eyes and a smile tell the world everything. So… Want to know more about KERSTIN FRAILEY… well here are some questions we got to learn more about the actresses and what makes her tick!

Last song I sang? 
Lizzo, Good As Hell, to a friend who thought he didn't know any Lizzo songs.

Last Vacation I took, with who?
I'm about to go to Ireland to visit Miriam, an Irish friend of mine, and to do some improv with the lovely people at Improv Utopia.

Last time I helped a stranger?
There's a dog-level drinking fountain at my local park that runs when someone (human) holds down a very hard to reach button.  This morning a dog trotted up to it and I ran the water for her until she was done drinking and her human got there up.

Last Indulgence?
A huge glass of rhubarb kombucha from Arize, poured straight from the tap on a hot summer day.

Last time I was star-struck?
When I was in college I met the founder of a website I thought was awesome.  He turned out to be pretty unpleasant and it sort of ruined the star-struck thing for me.

Last time I was scared?
GOT series finale, realizing this was all the end we'd get.

Last reality show I watched?
The news.  (Though mostly I listen to it.)

Last Movie I watched?
Wreck it Ralph Breaks the Internet, at the very good suggestion of a friend.

Last Splurge? 
An improv weekend workshop out of town.

Last word of advise I took to heart?
Don't try to succeed where someone's mother failed.

Last thing you got?
Second City's Pride shirt.  It's a ringer tee with rainbow Bentwood chairs, and it's adorable.

Last book you read?
The Witch Elm by Tana French.  I love her character portraits, even when the characters themselves are utterly unlovable..

What spots in OLD TOWN do you love most? 
 Green City Market farmers market!  I go there twice a week and do almost all my grocery shopping there when it's in season.

What was your first job?
Cashier at the Pitchin' Kitchen at our local little league park.

What product (makeup or gadget) are you obsessed with?
The Ordinary.  Honestly it's amazing.  And most think recommended on r/scincare addiction.

Home is where the heart is and this family has a lot of it! Happy First Fathers Day to this Dad of now two!!! I love when I get to be apart of families lives during their most special moments. I’m like that distant or cousin aunt who comes to see how the family is doing and gets to catch-up on all that happened. I’ve been with the “P” family ever since little Ryan blew out his first candle on his cake! Wow how time flies!!! Now he’s a big brother to baby Harper who I photographed just a few months ago as a newborn - click here and now she is sitting up like a big girl at 6 months!!! This was such a special shoot not only because the kids are growing up but because this year mom and dad decided to move to their clan to the burbs. Now, they have space for their little ones to run around - and that they did! So glad I got to capture this time in their lives with so many things to be grateful for! Thanks Michelle and David for letting me be there are the best moments with y’all -oh what a year it has been :)

Turning one is so much fun!!!! What better place but the beach, can you wear your birthday suit and eat your cake too! We had so much fun with baby Hazel turning one!!! Mom “M” had made this tier pink cake for her baby girl. Since Hazel and brother Hart’s birthday are just a month apart we had to get some photos in of them sharing their cake together. Hazel’s face was so yummy - I just wanted to eat her!

One of the things that I love about my job is that I get to be apart of families lives at such monumental moments. Case in point, last fall I got to meet such an adorable family. Mom “M” had called and told me that she had a six month old baby girl and a one year old little boy and would love to do a family session in the fall for holiday cards. The thing I adore about working with Mom “M” is that she picked out the outfits for her family sent me a text and asked me what would be a good environment to shoot them in. Here is what we collaborated on in the fall. (Click here)

Now, her little ones are one and three and she wanted to capture this time in their lives as they have changed quite a bit in the last six months (especially Hazel) As she is almost at that point of taking her first steps!!! We decided to pick a location that had versatility. Mom “M” suggested to go to Rosewood Beach in Highland park where there are plenty of trails to walk through that lead over to the beach. The mossy area around the bridge was just perfect. These moments as Dad “C” held Hazel in the air or when Hart held on to his sister so endearingly as she tried to stand - was just pure joy and love! We walked down to the beach and got some great shots of the family having some fun as the sun came peeking out. Thank you “S” Family for letting me enjoy these special moments with you as your family continues to grow. Lot of love - Naomi

It wasn’t “Sixteen Candles” for this 12 year old Bat Mitzvah girl, but we all know “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun”!!! From the leg warmers to the Reebok high tops, the track suits and neon plastic bangles - the 80’s were back and better then ever!!! Elly’s Bat Mitzvah was a totally radical 80’s bash that even RUN DMC wouldn’t want to miss!! This party was no “Risky Business’, it was “Footloose” and fancy free. The party was “Pretty in Pink” and “Purple Rain” ! Elly rocked her speech and the dance floor was like Kellerman’s from “Dirty Dancing”! Cindy Mancini Ronald Miller would have felt right at home with all the 80’s details. The kid’s place cards were fun and playful toys, and the adult place cards were cassette tapes, ready for a ghetto blaster. The DJ’s playlist was righteous and everyone dressed in their 80’s best!. Prom and Bat Mitzvah dresses were definite show stoppers! The sweet table would have satisfied all “Gremlins” and “Goonies”. It had PopRock’s, Good n’ Plenty, Fun Dip, Pixie Sticks, Gobstoppers, and much much more! At the end of the party all the girls received crop-tops and the boys got muscle tee’s to remind us that it’s fun to go “Back to the Future”. It was a party to remember! Sincerely yours, The Breakfast Club”!

Venue: Loft 21

Event Planner: Ellyn Saul Events

DJ: Monster

Photographer: Naomi Epstein Photography

Holy Moly!!! I can’t believe it but it is finally here. My amazing #fearboss friend is a Best Selling Author “Fear is my Homeboy” The book was released on May 28th on Amazon and it is also available at Barns and Nobles and soon to be at airport bookshops! Judi’s book is a book for the masses. Its for your nephew who just graduated college, for your sibling who wants something more our of life, for your friend who can’t seem to find their dream job, or for your mom who’s now an empty nester and just feels stuck.

Judi’s background hits close to home and that’s why our vibes meshed so well from the start. We met ten years ago doing improv at Second City in Chicago. During our time there, students would go through hours of classes. We had to check our ego’s at the door before goofing around on stage saying “yes and.” We had to train our brains to be free of judgement and also a team player. We were taught lessons from our teachers about how to be a better improvisor but, really it taught us how to be better human beings. Judi Holler wrote an amazing book that captures how to embrace the fear and improvise through life with confidence. I adore this amazing gal, not only because of her smart wits both off and on the stage but also for her tenacity in life. When she told me that she was going to write a book she reached out and asked if I could photograph her for her cover bio! So now my name is featured in her book! What a team player! Love ya Judi!!!

Click here to purchase her book on Amazon and click here to purchase her book from Barn and Nobles.

Every girl loves to twirl and this girl has something major to twirl and dance about! So proud of you and can’t wait to see what else is in store!

Beyonce was right! Girls Run the World!!! For Jordyn’s 11th Birthday, she asked her mom if she can have a styled session with her best friends. I have photographed Jordyn since she was 5 and was so excited to see her and meet her BFF’s! We talked a month before about what style she wanted and I adored hearing her ideas. We decided to photograph in the West Loop. I looked for a few spots to photograph her stylish bunch. I came across a few Graffiti walls the week prior, knowing that we were going to have rain in the forecast I found a spot that was underneath a bridge which gave us a roof and coverage from the rain! Jordyn or should I say….umm Kendel Jenner - modeled like a pro! We had an awesome afternoon with her SHE-PACK in the city and made the sidewalks and streets our catwalk! Yassss Queen!!! The girls kept saying to each other as they cheered each other on as each girl stepped in from of my camera. Happy 11th Jordyn!!! I hope you had a great day celebrating all the things you love. I’ll see you and you’re friend at your Bat Mitzvah :)

Zack asked her out and Emily smiled and agreed, which led to an unforgettable evening…which led to unforgettable years togethers. It was no surprise when Emily said yes!!! to Zack’s marriage proposal, having close family and friends near by to celebrate the happy couples love for one another.

As they plan to wed in August this summer, we wanted to take advantage of the spring! Having grow up close to the water, Zack wanted to planned a beach engagement session at Evanston Beach. I was thrilled to spend more time with this amazing couple and I can’t wait to document their first day as husband and wife soon!