I WANT YOU TO LOOK AT YOUR PICTURES AND FEEL

how happy you were that day

SO LET THE MAGIC BEGIN...

 

 

 

 

 

 

A gold butterfly-shaped symmetrical design featuring circular patterns and sun emblems.
Black and white photograph of dark rippling ocean waves with textured surface in low light.
A black and white collage featuring four candid moments including couples embracing and intimate family life scenes.

If the thought of stiff, awkward poses makes you cringe, you’re in the right place! My photography style is a mix of documentary and candid storytelling, capturing real, unscripted moments that feel like you. I focus on warm, colorful images filled with genuine emotions—whether it’s a wedding, a family session, or a special milestone. No forced smiles here—just natural connections and authentic memories you’ll cherish forever. Let’s create something beautiful together!

THE EXPERIENCE
Seamless celestial pattern with golden moons, stars, and sunbursts on a dark background.
Vintage polaroid-style photo with masking tape showing person in black t-shirt against dark background.
A white greeting card with adhesive tape attached to the top edge.

I'm

Nathalia, the eyes behind the camera. I'm a family and wedding photographer based in Crystal Lake, Illinois. I'm from Brazil and one day I decided to pack my stuff and go on the biggest adventure of my life - starting a new life in another country. Every photo I edit is done with care, making sure it brings that spark—so when you look back, you don’t just see the moment, you feel it all over again.



more about me
Dark rough textured surface with uneven shadows creating a moody and mysterious abstract background.

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A family stands together in a sunlit forest during golden hour as sunbeams stream through tall pine trees.
KIND WORDS


"My son was not behaving and acting extremely goofy. I was nervous we wouldn’t have a single good photo. When we received our photos, I was floored. She captured our family’s personalities, the lighting, the angles, even the ones of my son were adorable! Some of my favorite family photos we’ve done."


elizabeth
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A joyful family shares a candid moment together outdoors in warm golden sunlight among trees.
KIND WORDS


"She did an amazing job capturing our family. I highly recommend Nathalia if you're looking for warmth and beautiful moments to be captured!"


gabriella


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A couple shares an intimate dance together at their wedding reception under a warm glowing chandelier.
KIND WORDS


"I would trust Nathalia over and over again. If you’re looking for a photographer who goes beyond posed shots and captures the true essence of every moment, she’s the one!"


JESSICA SALLASa
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A plain dark green textured background with subtle grainy pattern and slightly mottled appearance.

All are welcome here.

Close-up shot of hands with wedding rings resting together on white textured fabric in soft lighting.

Photography is about capturing real, meaningful moments, and I believe everyone deserves to see themselves reflected in art. No matter your background, culture, identity, or love story—you are welcome here. My goal is to create a space where you feel seen, valued, and celebrated, just as you are.

book now
A black and white close-up photo of hands exchanging a ring during what appears to be a wedding ceremony.

Galleries

A loving family sits together on a blanket in a golden sunlit field during a warm outdoor photo session.
A black and white close-up Polaroid photo of a couple in an intimate moment with 'COUPLES' caption at the bottom.
A flowing red dress billows dramatically against autumn foliage in an artistic maternity photo composition.
Newlyweds show off their wedding rings while kissing, with hands displaying black and traditional bands in focus.
A black and white photograph of a peaceful sleeping newborn baby wearing light colored clothing.
A tender breastfeeding moment captured in a minimalist studio setting with warm neutral tones and pampas grass decor.
Follow me on Instagram
@nathalia.harden