Meet our Chicago suburb photographers
Alison Thompson
Location: Naperville, Illinois
About Alison: About Alison: I've been with Bella Baby for almost 12 years now! Starting as a photographer in the hospitals, I moved from trainer to gallery reviewer, to manager, to Bella Life! I've photographed over 1500 families during my time with Bella Baby, and have loved documenting special moments in people's lives. My favorite photographs always include parents cuddling, tickling, or playing with their children. You can almost hear the giggles in the photos! I am proud to serve and give back to my community in a volunteer elected position. I have 2 kiddos, who keep me busy with their activities and social life. As a family, we love to travel and explore new exciting destinations. So far, our favorite trips have been to Disney World and New York City. In another life, I went to school for playwrighting, and continue to write creatively in what little spare time I have left!
Favorite places to shoot: Katherine Legge Park, The Chicago Riverwalk, and the Naperville Riverwalk
Christina Brower
Location: Joliet, Illinois
About Christina: I am a Mom to 2 amazing grown men that I get to see every day! We've lived all over the world including in the dessert of Las Vegas, on the island of Guam and in the tundra that is Alaska. In 2010, we returned to my hometown of Joliet, IL. Having loved photography since I was 13, making it a career was an easy decision. I've worked with Bella Baby since 2014 and photographed in hospital 5 days a week for 6 years before moving into the Corporate side of the company. Although I now run the office, I still have the opportunity to photograph in studio and on location with Bella Life. I hit 10 years and 4000+ families photographed in November 2024.
I love traveling and do so as much as I can. I love experiencing the culture and the FOOD of different places. My favorite vacation spots are New Orleans and San Diego. I have always wanted to visit Puerto Rico and am hoping to do so in the next few years.
Favorite places to shoot: Lilicia Park in Spring, Catigny Park in autumn and any where covered in snow!
Toty Gutierrez
Location: Huntley, Illinois
About Toty: With 15 years of photography experience, I have dedicated 7 years to Bella Baby Photography—capturing over 3,000 newborns in hospitals—and the past 2 years to Bella Life Photography, expanding my creative journey.
As a native Spanish speaker, I learned English as my second language. Additionally, being the child of deaf parents, I am fluent in sign language, which has enriched my communication skills and deepened my understanding of diverse forms of expression.
At home, I am the wife of a talented musician, videographer, and fellow photographer, and a proud cat mother.
In my free time, I enjoy climbing, which keeps me grounded and energized.
I have a deep appreciation for the unique and unconventional, finding inspiration in the whimsical world of Tim Burton and his characters.
I am drawn to the unusual and the quirky, yet I balance that with a sweet nature, a love for perfection, and a commitment to originality in all that I do.
Favorite places to shoot: Fabyan Forest Preserve, Cantigny Park
Kate Fowler
Location: Batavia, Illinois
About Kate: I’m a proud mom to a grade schooler and a mini poodle. I’ve been a photographer with Bella Baby since December 2022, and during that time, I’ve photographed over 800 newborns in the hospital. In Fall 2024, I expanded my work to include Bella Life photography.
My passion for photography began in college, and I’ve been a dedicated photographer and camera enthusiast ever since. Between 2006 and 2013, I honed my creative skills while studying Art and Fashion, which continue to inspire my work today.
Favorite places to shoot: Fabyan Park, Batavia Riverwalk, Naperville Riverwalk
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