As a small business owner, this day means so much to me and every single small business you support. When you make a purchase from a local small business (or any small business), you bring a smile to the owner’s face, pay for a child’s art/music/sport class or in many cases help put food on […]

It’s that time of year and while things may look a different than in the past, generosity is still alive and well! There are 5 different categories to choose from (and some fall in multiple categories): Danielle’s Favorites: these are some of my favorite items that I’m sure someone on your list would love! Leah’s […]

This Downers Grove Milestone Session was a blast! The last photo WILL melt your heart…if this first one doesn’t already! Little O was a little shy at first but as you will see, his personality comes out by the end. He was an absolute joy to photograph and I’m sure after seeing all these fun […]

It was a joy to capture this Darien Lifestyle Newborn Session with this new family of four includes a nursery filled with beautiful subtle florals and soft color tones. There is an immediate sense of peace and calm upon entering it. The way the blush, pink, cream, grey and white came together in perfect harmony […]

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 […]