Chicago Children's Photographer Dawn M Photography Logo

Photographer of Chicago Children and their Adoring Families

Serving Chicago and Surrounding Suburbs, Hours by Appointment Only ... (847) 847 · 4070 or


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Sample Work & More Info

Dawn garners praise for her honest and simple approach to children's photography. Enjoy her beautiful collection of Chicago baby, child and family photography. Then, book a session for your little darling.

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It's so fresh!

Lovingly written by Dawn herself, fresh! is a weblog featuring Dawn's most recent work, announcements, inspirations and a collection of other good things you never knew you wanted to know. Indulge daily!

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Chicago children's photographer, baby photographer and family photographer Dawn Mikulich of Dawn M Photography creates extraordinary lifestyle portraits of Chicagoland babies, children and their adoring families. Her work has been described as "refreshingly honest" and "delightful". Dawn strives to capture the essence of childhood and the unrivaled love connection within a family. Her warmth, patience and undying dedication to the craft allows her subjects to shine in her images. Dawn has worked as a contributing photographer for the Chicago Tribune. Her work has been seen in Chicago Magazine, Wallpaper*, American Photo, Where Magazine & others.


Portrait Photographer Availability

Baby, Children, Family and Maternity Portrait Sessions available exclusively by appointment in your home or favorite location in Chicago or Chicago suburb. To commission a baby photography, child photography, family photography, or maternity photography session, please call (847) 847 - 4070, email or visit the DMP portfolio site for more information.


Chicago Illinois Photographer

Dawn M Photography provides on location natural light baby, child and family photography in Chicago and its surrounding surburban areas including, but not limited to Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Wrigleyville, Gold Coast, Old Town, River North, Wicker Park, Bucktown, Evanston, Wilmette, Winnetka, Kenilworth, Northfield, Glenview, Glencoe, Nortbrook, Lincolnshire, Buffalo Grove, Lake Forest, Bannockburn, Vernon Hills, Hawthorn Woods, Barrington, Inverness, Lake Zurich, Deer Park, Libertyville, Mundelein, Lake Forest, Highland Park, Deerfield, Naperville, Oak Brook, Downers Grove, Glen Ellyn and Wheaton. Have camera, will travel!


Family Photographer Testimonials

"They are perfect!! It was difficult getting through all of them without crying. Just stunning! You really captured him well even though it seemed like he wasn't cooperating. Thank you for your patience again and again. This is exactly what we wanted." -Catlyn & Edward Bennett

"You hear it all the time, photographers who capture someone's personality in a single image, but I've never experienced it until now. All the photos are absolutely amazing! How will we ever choose?!?" - Donna Stewart

"I just wanted to say thank you! Tim, Christopher and I had such a great time this morning during our photo shoot. We are so excited to see the photos. Thanks again for helping us capture this time in our lives. I know we will cherish the photos forever." - Patty King

"I received the prints today. I can't tell you how many compliments I received. Everyone was ooh-ing and aah-ing everytime I flipped the page. Thank you, thank you, thank you! We look forward to working with you again." - Cara VanTichelt

"Incredible! How did you do it? I swear you came back when I wasn't home and did a reshoot. I can't thank you enough for your time, patience and gorgeous photos." - Georgia Thomas Smith


Children's Photographer Blog

A "Little Stinker"

14 May 2008 | Comments (0)
His mom said it, not me. :) Nonetheless, he's an adorable little stinker! All of my children's portrait sessions are planned so that the appointment...

Wonderful Little G

9 May 2008 | Comments (0)
A few highlights from a Chicago children's portrait session for a one year old girl.

A Hodge Podge of DMP Things

5 May 2008 | Comments (1)
Waiting List » In the next two weeks, I'll begin booking June, July and August from the list. I'm putting together a few different types...

Mini Sessions (or Lack Thereof)

30 April 2008 | Comments (0)
Over the past few weeks I've received a few emails regarding whether or not I would be doing mini sessions this year. The short -...

100% Pure Awesome

29 April 2008 | Comments (2)
I've photographed adorable "N" three times since he turned 1. It is so amazing to be able to witness a baby turn into this fascinating...


Portrait Photographer Affiliations

Member - PPA (Professional Photographers of America)
Member - WPPI (Wedding & Portrait Photographers International)
Member - NAPP (National Association of Photoshop Professionals)
Listed - The Nest rated with FIVE stars!

Ten Reasons Why You Will Love
Dawn M Photography

No. 10
A portrait made by D.M.P. is a unique experience.

Each portrait session is customized to fit your personality and your lifestyle. As a documentary portrait photographer, I know that it's my responsibility and privilege to capture the spirit and beauty of your family. From the selection of your location to the way I approach your children, you'll find that I strive to create beautiful, enchanting images for you just as much as you wish to have them.

No. 9
There are no worries.

I understand that babies don't stick to a timetable and children don't always do want you want or expect them to do. This is why I only schedule one portrait appointment per day and don't ask you to set the time for your appointment until about a week before. This allows me to respond to the individual needs of you & your child. On the day of your session, we can work with unexpected naps, feedings & fussy behavior.

No. 8
Chicago is my studio.

It is my belief that people are naturally beautiful & should be photographed as they are in environments that allow their true selves to shine. I chose to be an on location photographer because I feel it adds a certain warmth and life necessary to create an extra special portrait. In and around the comfort of your home or within the laughter of your child's favorite park, fresh & fun photographs are created from your everyday moments.

No. 7
The quality of your portraits is of utmost importance.

Each image from your session is expertly processed from a digital negative, cropped and lightly retouched to remove any blemishes or scratches. If your child gets a scratch on his/her face the day before your session, you can rest assured you need not cancel or reschedule.

I'm never satisfied and find myself constantly looking for more ways to wow you. Be it through gorgeous prints or a beautiful presentation you'll know that I believe "as good as it gets" is never enough.

No. 6
I take an enormous amount of pride in my work.

Each portrait session is a job interview. I want you to not only have an enjoyable experience, but to see the value in my images and work with me again and again. In fact, most of my clients do. They also generously refer me to their friends and family.

No. 5
I enjoy hearing from you!

D.M.P. clients are encouraged to make contact whenever a question arises. I know that the success of my business depends not only on the quality of my work, but my ability to answer your questions openly & honestly.

If there are ways I can make your experience more delightful, please don't hesitate to let me know.

No. 4
There is no limit on the number of images taken.

During your initial phone consultation we'll discuss your expectations and how to best achieve them. Because there is no limit on the amount of images taken, I can capture those beautiful in between moments. These often turn out to be the most enchanting of images.

No. 3
Online proofing comes with online print ordering.

Your proofs can be shared with family and friends no matter where they live as long as they have access to a computer with the Internet. Grandma & grandpa can even order the same prints you do directly from the online preview site.

No. 2
Proofs are shown in both color and black & white.

There is no need to choose color or black & white ahead of time. All of my images begin in color, so that we can always convert to black & white or sepia later. In fact, when you receive your online proofs, you'll be able to see every image taken in both classic black & white and brilliant color. The only time you need to choose is when you order your prints.

No. 1
I love photography AND people.

Some say it's reflected in my work! I've arrived at my bit of success by doing work I am passionate about and working with people I enjoy. I feel blessed everyday and am eternally grateful to those who have invited me to photograph their families, their children, and their love. Thank you.