Photography That Speaks to You...

Sure, you can get photography that's cheaper...or "good enough". If this is a special time in your life, don't just trust it to anyone. I've always said, "if something's worth doing, it's worth doing right." That means that creating a beautiful, meaningful portrait takes time and effort. Nothing good comes overnight, it takes planning and work. Are you willing to put in the effort for the perfect portrait? If so, just call or email...There's absolutely no cost or obligation. I'm looking forward to working with you and your family!

"Neil has been taking portraits of my family for the last 8 years. His work is nothing short than amazing. He is wonderful, professional, patient and very kind. I would highly recommend Neil Gates photography for any of your portrait needs. You won't be disappointed. Thank you Neil for many years of your outstanding work."

  ~ Valerie Baily, 03 May 2012. Naperville,IL

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Our Guarantee - 

We understand that it is not just a photograph, it's a piece of your life. From the planning sessions through the photography to the selection of your images, we work with you to create portraits that you will be thrilled with. And if you are not, we offer our iron-clad guarantee: If you are not thrilled with your portraits, (thrilled, not just satisfied), we will give you all your money back - no questions, and no hard feelings either!

Please call us now at 630-428-4540. There is no cost, and no obligation. I look forward to speaking with you soon!

A Family Portrait Story

About five years ago, a lady called me on the phone and wanted to know how much I charge to do family portraits. I've found over the years that most folks don't know what question to ask other than that one, but also that it's not always the real question in their mind. After a minute or two of your basic chit-chat, I felt that there was something serious going on, but it was too early in the conversation for me to probe. So, I asked her if she would like to come to my place to chat about things, and she agreed.

When we met, it didn't take long for us to get acquainted, and "Pam" felt comfortable telling me the reason for her interest in family and childrens portraits. You see, her husband was very sick with cancer. I had never felt so emotional in front of a client (let alone a new one), and I was having a hard time keeping it together.

"Bob" didn't have very long left, she explained. Time was of the essence, and we started coming up with ideas right away. The day of the session came, and I was as nervous as a teen going on his first date. How do I act? What do I say? It's amazing how situations just take care of themselves, because once I met Bob and the three children, I knew I had a very important job to do. My nerves went away, and I went into creative mode.

During the two hour session at my clients' home, we came up with some amazing images. Some portraits with the whole family, some photographs of the children, and some of the children and their father.

That's why I'm so passionate about photography. Even though this was the most traumatic time of this families life, I was able to bring something to them that they can have forever. As difficult as the situation was, I am ever grateful that I got to meet and work with this family. My life was changed because of them.

A Wedding Story

Several years ago, I photographed the most emotional wedding I had ever photographed. The call came in from the mother of the bride, and we set up a time to meet. However, the bride did not come. This seemed a little odd to me, but I knew I would get the story...

We'll call the mother "Anne". Anne was a very sweet lady, with an amazing smile. I could tell that she was over the moon with the upcoming wedding. Her daugter had met a man at work, and wanted to marry him. So far, it seemed pretty normal to me. Then Anne explained that the couple were both special needs folks. They had met at the grocery store where they worked, and had fallen in love. I was almost in tears listening to this, I'd never heard of such a story! I was immersed in it, and hoped that Anne would hire me to do the photography.

The day of the wedding was beautiful, held at Naper Settlement Chapel in Naperville. As you can imagine, there were smiles on everyone, even the men that just hate going to weddings! It was unconditional love, and it was as sweet as honey.

Wedding photography is emotional, and if Anne had hired the wrong person, she wouldn't have the photographs she has today of her daughter and new husband. Thank you Anne for letting me part of your very special day, it will always have a place in my heart.

All weddings are special, and I still get butterflies in my stomach before heading off to one. If you are looking for a photographer who really cares about you and your family, please give me a call - I look forward to hearing your story.