Second Photographer – Should I Hire One For My Wedding?
This may seem obvious, but you can't add a second photographer after your wedding already happened. Even the most skilled photographer cannot physically be in two locations at once. With that said, I…
An Unplugged Wedding – No Distractions, Full Reactions
An unplugged wedding is when the wedding couple requests that their guests put away cell phones, cameras and any other devices for the ceremony or the entirety of the wedding day.
Wedding Detail Shots – How Should I Prepare & What Should I Bring?
Your photographer will most likely start their day with detail shots. It allows the creativity to be exercised, gets the wedding party used to someone running around with a camera and creates the…
Sarah & Alex – Westin Lombard Wedding Highlight Video
This wedding highlight film was taken alongside full photography coverage at Lilacia Park and the Westin Chicago Lombard. No additional videographer, just Damien capturing what happens in between the…
Caitlin & Bobby – CD&ME Wedding Highlight Film
This wedding highlight film was taken alongside full photography coverage at CD&ME in Frankfort, IL. No additional videographer, just Damien capturing what happens in between the shots.
Shay & Grant – Hotel Arista Naperville Wedding Highlight Video
This wedding highlight film was taken alongside full photography coverage at the Hotel Arista in Naperville, IL. No additional videographer, just Damien capturing what happens in between the shots.
Portrait Work – The Archives
My photography career started in the portrait world. I dove into the scene of photographers and models, made connections with others in the industry and grew my name while learning something new from…
Gabrielle – Portrait Sessions
I was invited to the local bar & grill by a friend. While I was at home deciding whether to attend or not, my future soulmate would be sitting there waiting patiently.
Lizzy & Andrew – Mayslake Forest Preserve Engagement Photography
Mayslake Forest Preserve is a beautiful nature trail that houses the historical Peabody Estate and the Portiuncula Chapel! There are multiple lakes, a trail, picnicking and even an off-leash dog…
Elise & Drew – Chicago’s First Lady Cruise Wedding
Guests took their seat on the top of the Fair Lady as the wedding party stayed on the lower level awaiting their grand entrance. The yacht was sailing down the river and the ceremony was underway.…
Caitlin & Bobby – Chicago Engagement Session
This tale takes place in Teason's Woods, a Forest Preserve of Cook County in Illinois. Catlin and Bobby showed up just shy of sunset, leaving us time to walk around the forest floor. Before their…
Megan & Chris – County Line Orchard Wedding Hobart, IN
County Line Orchard is a beautiful venue with grounds that match the rustic feel of the barn. Lighting is limited indoors, but a skilled photographer can overcome these difficulties.
Ann & Rollin – Chicago Engagement Shoot
Ann & Rollin asked me if I would capture them surprising their ring bearer and flower girl before our session. This added a beautiful moment to their engagement shoot and provided them with memories…
Jessica & Patrick – An Illinois Farm Wedding
Smaller, intimate weddings are a nice change of pace from the speed and moving pieces that come with larger celebrations. Jessica and Patrick opted to have their special day on their aunt's farm in…
Shay & Grant – Aurora, IL Engagement Session
This love story takes place in Aurora, IL (home of Wayne's World & also my high school, go warriors!). Shay reached out to me about being the photographer for her wedding at the Hotel Arista in…
Jacquelyn & Cole – A Serbian Wedding
Serbian weddings are a full day festivities that start with a Skup, which is a pre-ceremony party where food, drink, music, dancing and conversation are shared. It ends with the bridal party…
Shay & Grant – Hotel Arista Naperville Wedding
The bride patiently waited amongst the company of her friends and family. Shay and Grant opted for a first look, which is a growing trend in America that seems to have gained more popularity since…
Jezzeca & Sal – A Chicago Summer Wedding
One of the happiest days of my life was the opportunity of photographing my little sister’s wedding in Chicago. Jezzeca and I were separated at a very young age.
Maryann & Joe – Naperville Micro Wedding
Much like my wife and I, Maryann and Joe held a small wedding outdoors amidst the lockdowns and quarantines. Social distancing was kept in check, masks were dawned and love was ready to be…
Sam – Fine Art Portrait Sessions
Sam was there at the start of my portrait career. We were rookies but had enough talent and creativity to make it work. We traveled all over Midwest together looking for the perfect shot.
Tilesha & Nick – Engagement Session
Our story takes place at the White Palace Grill in Chicago, open since 1939! I saw this restaurant on an episode of ‘Diners, Drive Ins & Dives’ and knew I had to find an opportunity to shoot……
Tilesha & Nick – St. Louis Wedding
Tilesha and Nick hired me to take their engagement photos in Chicago early 2017 (view gallery here). After they saw the images, I was thrilled when they asked me to be the photographer at their…
Ashley – Maternity Session
Archer did something wonderful last year when he entered this world. He made his mark in the belly of a brand new mom. Ashley juggled work, family, college and Covid all while familiarizing herself…
Theresa – Maternity Session
Nothing can compare to the love of a mother for her child. I’m not a mom and I never will be, but I once was a kid with the greatest gift of all – a strong and enduring mother who stood by my side…
Megan – Maternity Shoot
When tasked with picking a location, I chose one equally as magical as motherhood. From seed to Angel Oak, the journey of life is mirrored.
Gillian – Family Session
It’s not often a photographer is gifted with 55 degree weather in winter, at least not in the Midwest. To take advantage of this beautiful day, I chose to shoot at Lake Katherine Nature Center and…
Stevie – 1st Birthday Session
Named after the great Stevie Nicks, this baby also borrows her stage presence. Her voice demands your attention, even if she can’t quite speak yet. Placed in the middle of the woods with a blanket…
Oliver – Newborn Session
Baby fever is a real thing, especially when the talent is as adorable as Oliver! Fun fact, his parents are fans of the CW show ‘Arrow’ and named him after the protagonist – Oliver Queen. My inner…
Pride Is Forever
About 4% of the US population identifies as LGBTQ+. This number is certainly higher, but hate crimes and prejudice alone are more than enough reason for someone to remain silent and follow…