Warmth of the setting fall sun. Early Friday night rumblings of people gathering in a small town. Downtown Lemont…a quaint, underrated little downtown area that reminds me of the small Tennessee towns I visited frequently as a child. So great to spend my evening with this returning DHP family and I got to check off […]

As a former teacher and childcare professional, I know a thing or two about kids and these 5 tips will help your photo session (and preparation) go a little smoother! Explain what will happen in advance (preferably not in the car on the way to your session). Once you have confirmed your session is a […]

Recently, I came across a local mom’s post about how to help her prek child learn at home. It inspired today’s post and as a former early childhood educator and childcare professional, in addition to my family and newborn photography, it’s right up my alley! ???? I have linked some of my favorite products or […]

Creating your baby registry is truly one of most exciting aspects of a pregnancy journey! For me, envisioning my baby wearing this cute swaddle or using that adorable pacifier made everything feel much more real. While there are many lists online that give you a rundown of the basics, my hope is to bring to […]

As an Amazon affiliate, I do earn a little something from each qualifying purchase. Thank you for supporting Danielle Hardesty Photography. So the time has come. Maybe you’ve been putting it off for months and your due date is next week, or perhaps you’re a planner and getting ready way ahead of the curve. Either […]

Have you ever emailed with someone and knew right away that you would get along? This is exactly how I felt when I was emailing with Mrs. S about a Front Porch Session! I was so honored to capture not only their last days at their home but also commemorate a wonderful day for one […]

As a milestone photographer in Downers Grove, I love capturing families where they live and in the places that hold special memories for them. This little lady had just turned one and this family had been quarantining together for a month so we thought we’d take advantage of the beautiful spring weather. At first, she […]

Hey friends! How are you doing? I mean, how are you really doing? If you’re like me, it feels like we’ve been sheltering in place for a while now and as much as I resisted at first, it now seems like I’m settling into this “new normal”. I find myself answering with “I’m fine” or […]

I hope you have been enjoying my storytimes over on Facebook Live because I’ve had a lot of fun! I’m so thankful for those of you that have been tuning in live or re-watching them when it works best for you. If you have missed a few, you can view the whole library of storytimes […]

Face Masks. Smell of Spring. 90* sunny and HOT day. This engagement session was the first session for me after the pandemic began and those were all the things we were contending with as I shot this sweet couple! We spent time in Elmhurst shooting in some of the most beautiful scenery you can find […]