Lens 2 Life Photography

10/19/2026

Happy Monday!

10/14/2026

There are times when balancing running a small business with teaching full-time can be tiring, but after sessions like this, I’m always reminded of the rewards that come with doing both rather than choosing one over the other. Photography gives me so many opportunities to reconnect with former students, and last night’s session was no exception!

I taught Tyler in 7th grade ELA. He was, and still is, an incredibly intelligent, kind, and respectful kid. Well, he’s not really a kid anymore! He turned 18 last month, and his mom started the session by reminding me that I’d be taking “adults only” pictures. 😂

Tyler has changed so much since I had him in class. He’s no longer that “awkward teen.” He doesn’t wear glasses or braces anymore, and he’s gotten taller. It’s amazing how much of a difference five-plus years can make!

Not only is Tyler a well-rounded young man balancing cross country, several AP classes, and college applications, but he also finds time for other pursuits, like earning the rank of Eagle Scout. He’s already been accepted into a handful of colleges, but his dream school is Purdue, and I have no doubt he’ll get in!

He plans to study engineering (I’ve had SO many seniors looking to study engineering lately!), and I have no doubt he’ll make an amazing engineer one day.

I just hope that when he becomes a big-time engineer, he remembers his roots and where it all began… in seventh grade ELA in Mrs. Lesko’s room, building a fine spaghetti-and-marshmallow tower.

And if engineering doesn’t work out? Well, Tyler, I have no doubt you’d make a fine detective. . . poet. . . or maybe even a greaser! 😉

10/12/2026

Matthew H. | Class of 2027

I can't say that I know a ton about Matthew, unfortunately. I know he plays soccer, is incredibly intelligent, and plans to study engineering after graduating from Hampshire High School. What I do know is that his mom and I could probably talk for hours!

Here's a recap of what I learned throughout the session (in case you're interested):

We both think mustaches should have died in the '70s. Seriously, how is this look making a comeback among young people?

We agreed that the mustache resurgence could be partially inspired by Ted Lasso. We also agree that Ted Lasso is an amazing show and good for the soul.

We both agree that Matt Bishop was a wonderful human being, that the world needs more people like him, and that his impact extended even to those who weren't involved in music.

Fabyan Forest Preserve has a rich and interesting history, and we're glad the Kane County Forest Preserve District is working to restore parts of the property that have deteriorated.

Well, there you have it. Matthew came for senior photos, but I think his mom and I got the most out of the session. Poor Matthew and his dad were just along for the photographic ride! Sorry guys!

10/11/2026

Congratulations to the Dundee Crown Hall of Famers!

What an exciting evening celebrating athletes who accomplished amazing things throughout their athletic careers!

When I was first asked to photograph this event a year ago, I knew absolutely nothing about the booster club or the event itself. And when I say nothing, I mean NOTHING.

I was practically having a panic attack before the event as I looked through the shot list and thought I had to photograph 83–84 women from the DC basketball team. I literally combed through Pinterest looking for inspiration on how in the world I was going to layer a group of 83–84 people for a group photo WITHOUT risers. I was already mentally preparing for a photographic disaster. Thankfully, my sister-in-law pointed out that it probably meant the 1983–84 team. Dumb. Dumb. Dumb!

In my defense, I come from the tennis and swimming world, where, admittedly, there are A LOT of girls on the team!

Anyway, it turned out to be such an exciting evening, and I ended up running into so many familiar faces. I met siblings of people whose children I once taught, people who taught my own children, and siblings of former coworkers who have since retired. And that’s just the beginning of the list!

In the end, I was reminded once again of the positive impact Dundee Crown has on its students and how important it is to support education, educators, and coaches. I was also reminded of just how incredibly SMALL this world really is!

Spend enough time talking to people, and you'll discover that we're all connected somehow.

10/10/2026

Matthew | Class of 2027

10/10/2026

Analese | Class of 2027

10/09/2026

The weather really cooperated for us this morning! I had a great time working with this senior. He’s laid-back, but don’t let that fool you—this guy has some serious ambition!

I tried to keep track of all his AP Capstone something, physics, and was it chemistry classes? Somewhere along the way, I lost track! Let’s just say he’s wicked smart, has a good head on his shoulders, and has a pretty impressive course load to prove it!

He’s just getting started with the college application process, but he already has his sights set on NIU, where he plans to study engineering. I have a feeling he’s going to do just fine wherever he lands, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for him!

P.S. Is it just me, or does this kid give Jim Halpert from The Office vibes?

10/08/2026