During our on-the-spot proof party, we’ll hang out a little longer, scroll through shots together, and you’ll choose your included images (and any upgrades) before I pack up. These aren’t just pictures; they’re timeless, classic portraits that tell your child’s story—and in black and white, they bring gallery-worthy charm to your walls, too.

Since 2017, we’ve been capturing kids as they truly are: expressive, unique, and full of personality. We specialize in black and white children’s portraits, bringing the studio right to your living room (no car-seat wrangling, no studio tears, just genuine micro-expressions you’ll treasure).

  • $550 covers your entire session (no per-child upcharges) and includes one fully retouched digital image per child. Want more when you see the proofs? You've got options!
  • We set up by a large window or door (or bring our own lights) and let your kiddos do their thing.
  • We spend about 15 minutes per child to catch all those thoughtful twists of the mouth, shy grins, and sparks of mischief.
  • Plus a few extra minutes for sibling duo shots (or a quick family frame).
  • Total session length flexes to fit your crew. Have a big family? We’ll build in the time so every kiddo shines.

Chicago Children's B&W Personality Portraits in the comfort of your home

est. 2017

Flat-Fee, In-Home Convenience

How the timing works

Instant Proofing

about jen madigan

Hi! I’m Jen, and I’ve been photographing everything from weddings to families for 15 years. I also spent 12 years as a nanny and 2 years as an associate teacher at a preschool and daycare. Spending my days with little ones taught me so much about their wonderful, ever-shifting personalities, the magic of their micro-expressions, and the art of capturing their true selves (even in the middle of a mood!).

This blend of photography skills and years working with kids is what makes these black and white personality portraits so special. I know it’s those fleeting, thoughtful, and mischievous expressions you want to remember—the real, everyday moments that capture who your child truly is. My goal is to create portraits that feel timeless, authentic, and full of character. So whether it’s that quiet, shy smile, a playful pout, or that spark of joy that lights up their whole face, I’m here to catch it all for you.

I live in Shorewood, IL with my partner Jakob, 2 dogs, and 2 cats. In my free time I love to read, travel, and cook.

I can’t wait to meet you and create some magic together!

When you think about your child right now, what moment do you want to freeze forever? The pure joy in their grin, the curiosity dancing in their eyes, or that cheeky little smirk when they’re lost in thought? That’s exactly what I’m here for—capturing those tiny, tell-tale expressions that make your kiddo one-of-a-kind.

Why Choose Black and White Personality Portraits?

I come to you—no Chicago traffic, no car-seat drama, no packing up snacks, toys, or a change of outfit.

$550 fee covers up to 90 minutes of shooting (roughly 15 minutes per child, plus a few extra for siblings), one fully retouched digital image per child, and my full setup. 

No more waiting for proofs: When we’re done, we scroll through your proofs together, pick your included images, and talk about any upgrades, all before I pack up.

Completely hassle-free: You just sit back and watch—I’ll handle lighting, set-up, and getting those perfect expressions.

Quick Note: Sessions are best for little ones who can sit up on their own—perfect for ages 6 months to 10 years.

And because life’s busy, here’s how I make it easy (and fun):

-Emily K.

Jen captured my girls perfectly! I will now be able to remember those expressions forever! Thank you Jen!

-Courtney M.

We love our photos! From start to finish, the entire process was easy and seamless. The photos are great, my kids had fun and it was quick & affordable.

-Meagan W.

We couldn’t be happier! Jen made the whole experience easy and fun, and the photos—of our kids and our dog—are absolutely perfect.

-carolyn S.

Jen is wonderful! She captured my daughter’s personality in beautiful photos all while making it a fun experience.

-Jenna R.

Jen was so kind and disarming, which made all the difference with our toddler and two dogs. The photos turned out amazing—and she made the whole experience easy, fast, and totally worth it.

$550

after proofing, add more digitals or prints

what's included:

In-home session (up to 90 mins)
One fully edited digital image per child Included
Live proof-viewing & ordering consult Included

5 extra digital images $250
10 extra digital  images (most popular) $400
20 extra digital  images $600
All images in your proofing gallery $950

Pro tip: Families usually snag 10–20 for max variety and value.


Session + Upgrade pricing

A. As many as you have! The session fee is flat, and you get one digital image per child included.

Q: how many kids can i include?

A: Sessions take place in your home, we bring the backdrop and everything we need! We generally ask for space to set up in front of a large window or sliding door with indirect light, but if natural light isn't available we can bring lighting as well!

Q: where do the sessions take place?

A: I photograph kiddos who can sit up unassisted—usually ages 6 months to ~10 years. Got older sibs? Great! We’ll capture them all.

Q: WHAT AGES WORK FOR THESE PORTRAITS?

A: Sessions are $450 and include up to 90 minutes (about 15 minutes per child + sibling photos and time to select your favorites!) and 1 digital image per child. Want more than 1 image per kiddo? We offer several optional upgrade packages.

Q: How much are the sessions and how long are they?

A: Sure, we can definitely do a few pet photos!

Q: What about pets?

A: These photos will be edited to black and white, and taken in front of a white background. I recommend thinking about patterns, contrast, differing shades of light and dark. You will typically only see the top half of the child.

Q: What should they wear?

A: No, images are delivered in black and white only.

Q: Can I get the images in color?

A: You’ll pick your included files immediately after the session in the comfort of your home, as well as any upgrades. Then I deliver the finished digital portraits (and any prints you order) within 7–10 business days.

Q: what can i expect after my session?

questions?

the gallery

These shoots are fun, relaxed, and tailored for little ones, no rushing, no meltdowns, all the authenticity. Once you book, I’ll send you my Prep Guide so you can kick back on session day.

Don’t let these fleeting expressions slip by. Let’s freeze your kiddos’ real personalities in images you’ll smile at for decades.

capture this moment now, don't wait!

"Jen was incredibly easy to work with, making the entire experience enjoyable and stress-free. She had a wonderful way with our kids, capturing their personalities perfectly. The photos are, without a doubt, the best we've ever had of our children."

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@2024 jen madigan photography, llc

chicago | iowa city
black and white personality portraits