Not everything I shoot fits neatly into studio portraits or headshots and honestly, that’s what keeps it fun. This is where I share the other side of my work and bigger creative projects that deserve their own space. Think of this as a behind-the-scenes journal for all the shoots that don’t quite live on my homepage, but totally should.

Got something different in mind? Let’s chat.

more than portraits

Chicago Model Digitals – A Fresh, Natural Approach
Monyeka Monyeka

Chicago Model Digitals – A Fresh, Natural Approach

In my Chicago studio, model digitals are kept clean, natural, and agency-ready — photographed in soft north-facing window light with a crisp white backdrop. I guide you through posing, include two looks for variety, and send a curated proof album so you can choose your strongest images.

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Colorful & Creative Portraits in Chicago | Liz’s Whimsical Studio Session
Monyeka Monyeka

Colorful & Creative Portraits in Chicago | Liz’s Whimsical Studio Session

When Liz reached out from Nashville with the words “Tilda Swinton meets Peter Pan” in her inquiry, I knew this shoot was going to be something special. She was visiting Chicago for the very first time and wanted to fully embrace this season of her life — with a photo session that blended a fresh, non-traditional work headshot and creative portraits just for fun and memories.

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Time for a Portfolio Refresh? Here’s Why It Matters (ft. Jerziah’s Latest Shoot)

Time for a Portfolio Refresh? Here’s Why It Matters (ft. Jerziah’s Latest Shoot)

If you’re a model in Chicago looking to refresh your portfolio with clean, elevated images that show your range—this is your sign. I recently worked with Jerziah at my natural light studio in Ravenswood, and we created three distinct looks that brought out completely different sides of her.

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Vibes on Logan – S6, Ep2
Monyeka Monyeka

Vibes on Logan – S6, Ep2

Nearly 100 degrees didn’t stop the community from coming through for Vibes on Logan S6, Ep 2—cold drinks, good music, shade, and beautiful moments captured in the heat of the day.

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Nicole’s Branding Session: Launching Studio by NK
Monyeka Monyeka

Nicole’s Branding Session: Launching Studio by NK

Nicole’s branding session was all about capturing movement, texture, and the creative spirit behind her new line of sculptural hair accessories. With a suitcase full of shiny pieces and a vision for something airy and expressive, we created photos that feel just like her brand — soft, polished, and full of personality.

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Mother’s Day “Pay What You Can” Portrait Day
Monyeka Monyeka

Mother’s Day “Pay What You Can” Portrait Day

On April 26, I hosted a Pay What You Can Mother's Day portrait event at my natural light studio in Ravenswood, Chicago. Families came through for relaxed 20-minute sessions full of love, connection, and timeless photos—delivered just in time for Mother’s Day. One of my favorite studio days to date.

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