Allow us to introduce winter and construction design, L.L.C. is a boutique graphic design studio specializing in the art of creating and maintaining a brand.  What’s with the name? I was curious, so I did a little bit of research. (Very little. In fact, there is a section on the winter and construction website dedicated to this very question.) Turns out that the firm’s name is a nod to the saying that is Chicago, there are only two seasons: winter and construction. Ahhhhhhhhh.

These folks are creative.   

Run by Susan Fireside, winter and construction gives a visual presence to companies. So that they’re more than just a name. They’re an experience.

Susan describes her company as a graphic design studio that understands that the way to connect with an audience is with words and pictures. They are storytellers. Creators. Brand Generators. Through a variety of projects such as logos, annual reports, web design, advertising, exhibits and environments, winter and construction focuses on telling your story in a visual medium.  It’s not about building a website. It’s about building your brand.

winter and construction has worked with some of the biggest corporations and newest startups. They believe it’s best to do one thing really well instead of trying to be all things to all people.

Love that!

I, however, am a working mom. So I have to settle for trying to be all things to all people (which explains my cooking). To learn more about winter and construction, just click here.  –Laura

Yes, we know it is 90 degrees outside and you’re still in summer mode. But the kids are back at school, and September is upon us, and that means it’s time to think about Soben Studios renowned Fall Mini Sessions! We are pleased to announce fall mini session dates: Sunday, September 26th and Saturday, October 16th.

Our 25-minute mini sessions are held on-location. September minis will take place in downtown Highland Park, near our new studio. (We’ve already got some favorite, hidden shooting spots.) October minis will be held at a north suburban forest preserve or park. (Exact location TBA closer to the shooting date as we wait for the auturmn colors emerge.) Whether you’ve been yearning for some updated shots of the kids, or you’re already planning for your annual holiday card, Soben’s mini sessions are a great value at only $175. Perfect for up to 3 subjects, Soben Studios mini sessions provide you with the quality photography and client service that make Soben one of Chicago’s premier contemporary lifestyle photographers. No minimum purchases, no premade packages. Order only what you want, including newly repriced (less expensive!) digital images. Mini sessions book-up fast and space is limited, so don’t delay. If we’ve photographed you before, come join us again — we’d love to see how the kids have grown. Or if you’ve been toying with the idea of portraits, this is the perfect chance to see why our devoted clients come back again and again. For more information, or to book your session, please email us at email@sobenstudios.com or call us at 847.374.9123.

I have many more shots to share, and many to catch up on from the last few months … but in the meantime I am proud to show you some of my favorite Sam and Nora shots. Oh, and yes!! The baby IS really smiling … there is no photoshop in that smile!

And if you know a pregnant mommy due in September, please ask her to contact our studio and ask about our newborn modeling special!

Though I don’t have time to post much at the moment – I had to pop in to say hello! Stay tuned for information about a charity event to with Nibbles Play Cafe coming the end of this month – and also to learn more about our newborn special.

~ Laurie

We were absolutely thrilled to be part of the Make A Wish foundation’s Wish Ball this year. Soben Studios proudly donated photography sessions for both portraits and parties – and we cannot wait to meet the lucky winners! Dana Carvey was the featured special guest, who was a complete hit (of course!). “This occasion is a wonderful way to celebrate the work of the Make-A-Wish Foundation and bring our mission to life for our supporters,” said Stephanie Springs, Chief Executive Officer of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois. “It a powerful experience for everyone as we not only laughed with Dana Carvey, but were deeply touched by stories from our wish families.” I hope you enjoy the shots above, which were kindly emailed to us from the Wish Ball chairperson (not taken by Soben Studios). I have no idea who the lovely family is with Dana Carvey – but I do know one thing – they had “a ball”.