Danielle Graves Danielle Graves

The Studio 25 Difference: Why Instant Photo Selection Changed Everything for Mini-Sessions

And that's a wrap on mini-sessions for this year!

This season at Studio 25 Naperville, we did something that transformed the entire experience: families picked their photos before they left.

You view your images on the spot. Choose your favorites. Know exactly what you're getting before you walk out. No weeks of waiting. No wondering. Just instant results and zero stress.

That's what Studio 25 Naperville is all about. Making family photography easy, convenient, and genuinely enjoyable.

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Emily Cummings Emily Cummings

Senior Photography Planning Guide: Why Early Booking Matters

Senior year goes faster than any parent is ready for.

One minute they're starting high school with backpacks too big and schedules they can't quite figure out. The next, you're staring down graduation, college applications, scholarship deadlines, and the sobering reality that they're leaving home soon.

Here's what happens to most families every single year: Spring semester hits. Prom is around the corner. AP exams are looming. College decisions are arriving. And somewhere in that chaos, you realize: "We still need senior photos."

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Emily Cummings Emily Cummings

Dating Profile Photography That Actually Works: Ryan's Story

Let's be honest about dating apps: you're scrolling through profiles that all look the same. Blurry selfies. Awkward group shots. Photos from three years ago.

And if you're creating that profile? The pressure is overwhelming. You're cropping yourself out of group shots, overthinking every image, settling for photos that don't really show who you are.

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Emily Cummings Emily Cummings

Naperville’s Secret to Better Dating: Strong Photos and a Smarter Strategy

If you’re a single man in Naperville looking for a real relationship, your dating profile photos might be the key to better results. In this new collaboration with Emlovz, Naperville’s top dating coach for men, I’m helping elevate both your image and your strategy. Learn how expert coaching and modern, natural-light photography can help you attract high-quality women with confidence and clarity. This isn’t about swiping harder. It’s about showing up smarter.

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Emily Cummings Emily Cummings

Behind the Brand: Hannah Gomez of Hannah’s Fine Jewelry

When Hannah Gomez booked her brand session, she wasn’t just looking for updated headshots. She had something more meaningful in mind. She wanted to show people the why behind her business β€” the real lives her jewelry supports, and the reason she pours so much heart into every heirloom she creates.

This is the story of how we brought her brand to life through intentional, story-driven imagery… and why every small business owner deserves to be seen this way.

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Emily Cummings Emily Cummings

Swipe Right on Photos That Actually Look Like You

Swipe Right on Photos That Actually Look Like You
Tired of dating profile photos that feel stiff, staged, or just not... you? You're not alone. Whether you're camera-shy or just ready for something that finally feels real, this is your guide to dating photos that actually reflect who you are β€” confident, relaxed, and fully yourself.

Fall dating sessions are open. Here’s what to know before you book.

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Emily Cummings Emily Cummings

5 Things to Avoid in Your Dating Profile Photos

Because first impressions matter β€” and your photos are speaking before you do.
From car selfies to confusing group shots, most dating profiles are full of red flags (and not the good kind). If you want to attract the right kind of attention, your photos need to tell the right kind of story. Here are 5 mistakes to avoid β€” and how to show up looking confident, modern, and like the best version of you.

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Emily Cummings Emily Cummings

You Can’t Just Hire Any Photographer for Dating Photos

Not all photographers are right for dating photos.

Your dating profile isn’t just about looking good β€” it’s about making a connection in seconds. In this post, I break down why dating photography is a unique art form, what makes it different from headshots or portraits, and how the right images can actually change your results (and your confidence).

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Emily Cummings Emily Cummings

Dressing for the Brand You’re Becoming: A Guide to Branding Photography in Naperville & Chicago

Dressing for the Brand You’re Becoming is more than a style guideβ€”it’s a mindset shift. Whether you're a powerhouse entrepreneur in Naperville or a creative leader in Chicago, your branding photos should reflect the future you’re stepping into. Discover how intentional wardrobe choices can elevate your images, amplify your authority, and help you show up as the confident, polished, unforgettable version of yourself.

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Emily Cummings Emily Cummings

Are Dating Photo Shoots Really a Thing?

Think dating photo shoots sound a little... out there? You’re not aloneβ€”but they’re very real, and they work. In a world where first impressions happen in a swipe, your dating profile photos matter more than ever. In this post, I’m sharing why professional dating photos are becoming the secret weapon for Naperville and Chicago singlesβ€”and how the right images can lead to better matches, more conversations, and a whole lot more confidence.

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Emily Cummings Emily Cummings

Naperville Non-Profit Photography: Kids Matter Team Headshots | Professional Photographer in Downtown Naperville

When local mission meets professional imagery, beautiful things happen. After photographing hundreds of teens in Kids Matter's summer programs, it was meaningful to welcome their dedicated staff to our studio. This innovative organization takes a holistic approach to youth development, serving young people throughout our community.

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Emily Cummings Emily Cummings

Behind the Lens Personal Branding Photography Session with Website Designer Melissa Lunt | Naperville Business Photographer

Experience the magic of creative collaboration! Step behind the scenes of a personal branding session with website designer Melissa Lunt of Superhero Design Company. From thoughtful Pinterest planning to professional hair and makeup at Zazu in downtown Naperville, see how we captured the essence of her brand as a "website wing woman" for creative entrepreneurs. Discover why personal branding photography is essential for elevating your business presence.

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Emily Cummings Emily Cummings

ADHD and Entrepreneurship

A Chicago and Naperville photographer's ADHD diagnosis reveals how neurodivergent thinking enhances creative business photography. Discover how unique perspectives create extraordinary brand images.

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