A Favorite Location for Young Families
When families ask me for location recommendations in the western suburbs, Wilder Park in Elmhurst is always one of the first places that comes to mind.
Tucked into the heart of Elmhurst, Wilder Park offers a beautiful combination of gardens, mature trees, open green spaces, walking paths, and charming architecture. The variety allows us to create an entire gallery of images without ever feeling like we're photographing in the same spot twice.
This sweet family joined me for a summer mini session at Wilder Park, and it was the perfect example of why this location works so well for families with young children.
One of the biggest challenges parents worry about before a family session is whether their children will cooperate.
The reality is that young children rarely want to stand still and smile on command for an extended period of time, and honestly, I don't expect them to.
Locations like Wilder Park allow children to explore naturally while we capture genuine moments along the way. Whether it's stopping to examine flowers, holding hands while walking down a path, or snuggling close with mom and dad for a few quiet moments, the experience feels much more like spending time together than posing for photographs.
Throughout this session, we focused on connection and movement. The kids were free to explore, play, and interact with their surroundings while their parents simply enjoyed being together. Those authentic interactions often become the photographs families treasure most because they reflect who their children truly are during this stage of life.
One of my favorite things about Wilder Park is how much variety it offers within a relatively small area. The gardens provide beautiful seasonal color, while the mature trees create soft shade and beautiful light throughout the session. There are open spaces for playful family photographs and quieter corners that feel intimate and timeless.
For families with toddlers and preschool-aged children, this flexibility can make a huge difference. We can move naturally throughout the park, allowing children to stay engaged while creating a gallery that feels relaxed and authentic.
Family photography is about so much more than getting everyone to look at the camera at the same time. It's about preserving the relationships, personalities, and little moments that make your family unique right now. The way your child reaches for your hand, the excitement of discovering something new, or the comfort of being held by mom or dad are often the memories that matter most years later.
As a family photographer serving Elmhurst, Downers Grove, Hinsdale, Oak Brook, Glen Ellyn, and surrounding communities, I love helping families find locations that fit their personalities and allow children to simply be themselves.
To this wonderful family, thank you for spending the evening with me at Wilder Park. It was such a joy documenting this season of your family's story.
If you're considering family photos in Elmhurst, Wilder Park continues to be one of my favorite locations for creating timeless, natural images filled with genuine connection.
