Snuggled in the soft, cozy sweater covering his mom’s arms or the strong, stable grip of his dad allowed this sweet newborn to feel calm and safe. The minute we tried to set him down or wrap him in something new, he felt unsettled but as soon as one of them embraced him, everything was […]

The warm glow of the lights on a cold December afternoon with florals and decorations that take your breath away were the backdrop of this elegant 1st birthday party at Cadence Kitchen in Downers Grove. Mom thought of every detail and the staff could not have been more helpful throughout the afternoon! 1st Birthday Party […]

Giving Tuesday was created to “kick off” the giving season. It is important as someone who has been blessed with ample resources to give back even though there are always things in my life and business that I could be using my money for. Here are a few local organizations you may consider giving back […]

Small Business Saturday falls between Black Friday and Cyber Monday and provides consumers an opportunity to support ‘mom and pop’ businesses. They are run by hard working families that do a sweet little dance each time a client chooses their service or buy their product (online or in store). This year, DHP is offering a […]

As a Chicagoland family photographer, I’m always watching the weather to make sure each session is set up for success! This sweet momma contacted me and the weather for her preferred date and time was gorgeous sunshine and a mild fall temperature. Within days of her booking, the forecast changed and we had to make […]

As a former early childhood teacher and a childcare professional with 20+ years of experience turned family photographer, there is one thing certain about toddlers…they are unpredictable. Believe it or not, this can actually yield some of the best photos! You might wonder how in the world that could be possible. We go for a […]

Some days are just hard! Whether you are entrenched in the corporate world, working in the small corner office of a non-profit, tending to kiddos at home, launching your own business or trying to grow your family, it ALL matters. It all makes a difference and I’m here to say, “Great job!” It’s National Day […]

August 2019 was full of firsts for Danielle Hardesty Photography. I’m excited to finally begin sharing all that happened with you! First up, this adorable first birthday party at the Elk Grove Village Park District, complete with a real indoor carousel! The room had floor to ceiling windows on 60% of the walls so the […]

Every time I walk into a newborn session, my heart melts and I can feel the excitement and exhaustion the family is feeling. So you can only imagine that when my best friend brought home her newborn, I was in LOVE and literally wanted to hold her the entire time! Their Downers Grove home exudes […]

As a child and family photographer, nothing beats capturing the moments of life as they happen. Nothing could be more true than capturing a newborn baby girl in the hospital. At just 15 hours old, this little lady stole my heart and has had a hold of it ever since! While I love all newborn […]