A studio session takes place at our official Chicago studio and covers lighting setup, background selection, and guided posing from start to finish. You do not need modeling experience; we show you where to stand, where to look, and how to hold your hands, then adjust as we shoot. Sessions can focus on individual portraits, couples, or family groups, and we confirm the details before your visit.

Bring the photo requirements for the specific document you are applying for so we can match the framing, size, and background rules. Come with your normal hair and face visible, avoid hats or heavy glare, and wear clothing that contrasts with a plain light background. We capture the image in the studio and review the framing with you before printing. Passport photo approval is decided by the issuing agency, not the studio.

Send a clear photo or scan of the original, tell us what matters most to you, and describe any damage such as tears, fading, or stains. We review the image, explain what can realistically be improved, and discuss options before any work begins. Old photos are handled carefully and returned as they were received. Restoration can improve clarity and repair damage, but it cannot make every image look brand new.

Newborn sessions are paced around feeding and rest, so we build in extra time instead of rushing. We ask parents to bring the baby fed and sleepy when possible, keep the room warm, and let you handle soothing, holding, and changes while we set up. Posing stays gentle and supported, with a parent always nearby. If your baby needs a break, the session pauses and comfort comes first.

Most clients book maternity photos during the third trimester, when the belly is clearly visible and you are still comfortable standing and moving for short stretches. If you have specific timing in mind, tell us early so we can hold a date. Partners and siblings are welcome in the frame, and we guide every pose so you feel supported. Loose clothing and a fitted option both photograph well.

Share the ceremony and reception venues, the date, the getting-ready location, your timeline, and the family groupings you want photographed. That lets us plan where we stand, when we move, and how much time portraits receive. Park Ridge weddings and events are covered on location at your venue, so we confirm access details and any venue rules in advance. The more you tell us early, the smoother the day runs.

No. Studio portraits, passport photos, and newborn or maternity sessions take place at our official Chicago studio, while weddings and events are photographed on location at Park Ridge venues and event spaces. Park Ridge, IL is a photography service area, not a branch address. Before booking, we confirm which format fits your project so there is no confusion about where to arrive. You can view the area on the Map of Park Ridge, IL.

For weddings and larger events, earlier is better because weekends fill first; portrait, maternity, newborn, and passport sessions can usually be arranged with less notice depending on availability. When you reach out, include the date, the session type, the location, the number of people, and the style you have in mind. That information lets us confirm timing and tell you quickly whether your preferred slot works.

Photographing or filming on City public property, a right-of-way, or a street, or involving City personnel, requires a City Manager permit unless an exemption applies, under Park Ridge Municipal Code Section 12-1-7(A). The rule targets public property and City involvement rather than private locations. If your session uses a public space, confirm requirements before the shoot date. The text is published in the official ordinance.

Filming and photography activities that require a City permit carry a $100 nonrefundable application fee under Park Ridge Municipal Code Section 12-1-7(B)(1). Because the fee is nonrefundable, it is not returned once the application is submitted. Fee schedules can be updated, so confirm the current amount with the City before planning a shoot on public property or a right-of-way. The wording appears in the ordinance text.

Yes. For documentary or web media filming and photography, Park Ridge charges $400 per location, per date under Section 12-1-7(B)(2)(a). Because the rate is tied to each location and each shooting date, multi-day or multi-site projects add up quickly, so plan your schedule before applying. This applies to permitted City activities, not to ordinary private-property sessions. Check the ordinance text for the current fee structure.

Yes. The Park Ridge Park District requires a permit to take professional photos on its property and lists the professional photo permit at $100 per year. Applications start by calling the Park District rental line or submitting a Facility/Park Rental Application, so it is best to arrange the permit before the session date. Confirm coverage for your specific park with the District; see the Park Rentals page.

Yes. If you are unsure which session type fits, where it should take place, or how to prepare, send your question with the date and the details you already have. We answer booking questions directly and confirm coverage before anything is scheduled. You can reach the Video Studio Jimenez Team through the contact page, or call (847) 420-3717 during business hours.