About Me

Lake County Il Family and Corporate Photographer

I am Susan Ryan Kalina. I am a student of life. I love watching people connect, play, and relax. I love meeting new friends of all ages.

I received a photojournalism degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia more years ago then I care to count. I have worked across the world as a photojournalist, a newspaper designer, and a photo editor. (My pre-kiddos job was as a photo editor at The Chicago Tribune.)

When I became a mother I left my job at the Chicago Tribune. Now I am a Lake County IL family photographer and corporate photographer. I specialize in storytelling candid photos that tell the story of your family or business.

I am a big kid at heart. I am always up for an adventure. I don’t think we spend nearly enough time playing when we grow up.

I am on a photographic journey. I want to take real pictures that show the little moments from your every day. I want to show the extraordinary in the ordinary. I want to capture the smiles and the connections that define who you are. I want to show you how you feel in photos.

I have three amazing girls who are as different as snowflakes. They keep me honest and on my toes.

I have a very supportive husband who just wants me to do something for a living that fulfills me.

I have all the experience and technical background to make beautiful pictures. Now I just need you to invite me in. Won’t you let me tell your storychicago family photographer