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

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

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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Creative Birthday Portraits with Grey
Monyeka Photography Monyeka Photography

Creative Birthday Portraits with Grey

A dreamy birthday portrait session with tattoo artist @grey.tattoos, full of personality, playful poses, and sparkly post-editing touches. A perfect example of how creative portraits can be both fun and personal.

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

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 Photography Monyeka Photography

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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