Unplanned Light: A Portrait, A Friendship, A Goodbye

Sometimes, the most magical moments aren’t planned. They simply unfold like light slipping through the clouds at just the right time.

A few days ago in Chicago, I had one of those moments.

My dear friend had just returned from a boat meeting, full of sunshine and summer wind, when she stopped by just to say hi. What was meant to be a quick visit turned into something truly unforgettable.

We talked. We laughed. And then I shared something close to my heart:
“I started Chychu Photographie LLC.”

Her response?
“Wow, just in time.”

In that instant, trust became art. She said she wanted me to capture her; no prep, no pressure, just presence. As a photographer and as her friend, I felt honored. We didn’t set out to create something perfect; we simply wanted to create something real, I used my make up kills to place some loose powder and highlight on her beautiful skin and boom we made magic.

She’s naturally comfortable in front of the camera, but even the boldest stars need a little light sometimes. I gave her a little Hennessy a ritual between old friends and the vibe shifted. The room turned golden. She let go, leaned in, and laughed from the belly.

We played music, took breaks, shared food, and took our time. The camera didn’t rush us. It waited like a friend.

This session was special not just because of how beautifully it turned out, but because this incredible woman is moving away. A new city awaits her, and while I’m excited for her next chapter, I already feel the space her absence will leave.

But here’s the thing about photography:
It holds space where memory might fade.

And now, with these images; full of light, laughter, and love. I have a little piece of her, a beautiful echo of our time, etched in light.

At Chychu Photographie, this is what we do.
We don’t just take photos.
We preserve moments. We honor stories.

Your story, etched in light.