Nicole I Photographer
In 2002, Nicole turned her passion into her profession. After years of photographing her family, friends, and freelance clients, Nicole Thomas Photography came to life.
Since then, Nicole has become one of the premier child photographers in Chicago and its North Shore suburbs (while the sunny West Coast is quickly discovering her talent!)
Nicole specializes in images that celebrate individual personalities and that capture the spirit and essence of her subjects. Whether on-location with natural light or in her studio, her fun and energetic approach produces true-to-life images.
With a degree from Columbia College concentrating in both Photography and Graphic Design, Nicole brings a blend of creative perception, composition, and perspective to each session.
While the majority of Nicole's subjects are children, spontaneous and in their element, she excels in specialized portraiture ranging from corporate/executive headshots and child modeling to pregnancy and newborn photography. Her ability to capture natural yet professional images for each subject keeps things flexible and interesting...and fun!
Nicole works with such prestigious clients as Ford Modeling Agency (kids division), C.B. Richard Ellis and, of course, all of the wonderful families she has come to know over the years.
Her work is on display throughout Chicagoland and the North Shore at various children’s boutiques and businesses. It is also featured in the book, Little Red Heads Across America.
Katie | Photo Assistant
Katie became a part of Nicole Thomas Photography in 2023 after graduating from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago with a Bachelors of Fine Art degree in Photography. With a background and interest in fashion photography, Katie loves working as a studio assistant both for shoots inside the NTP studio and on location.
Katie also has experience working in analog photography in which she has exhibited work at Chicago Art Department Gallery, Mana Contemporary Chicago, and SAIC Galleries. In her free time, Katie enjoys cooking, crocheting, and other creative projects.
Nathan I Mac Tech
Nathan has been a part of Nicole Thomas Photography since its creation over twenty years ago.
As "tech whisperer," he manages all of the computer technology and digital equipment and assets in the studio. This means ensuring that our over one million images are backed up and secure at all times.
Nathan attended Stanford University with a degree in Feminist Studies and a focus in Computer Science.
Many of Nate's original ideas remain in the framework of the company today.
Winner of Better’s Best of 2022!
Nicole Thomas Photography recently won Better’s Best of 2022 “Best Kids / Family Photographer” category. Thank you for voting for us!
Winner of Better’s Best of 2021!
Better's Best of 2021 "Best Kids / Family Photographer”. Thank you for voting for us!
Shannon I Studio Manager/Art Director
Shannon has been a part of Nicole Thomas Photography for more seven years. She is an instrumental member of the studio, wrangling all things creative and logistical.
She has 17 years of past experience working with Art Departments across the US as an Art Director, Stylist, Set Designer, Set Dresser, Prop Stylist, Location Scout, and Producer and has brought all this know-how to Nicole Thomas Photography. Her expertise in production facilitates planning each of our shoots, be it a family portrait, professional headshot, or for a commercial catalog or corporate website update.
In post-production, Shannon is typically the team member to sit down with clients for image selection and curation. Her experience in design and installation enables her to assist clients in selecting the best format to display images, all while keeping in mind each person's own unique style.
Shannon spends her free time painting, hiking, camping, exploring museums, and attending music and theatre productions. She studied Scenic, Costume, and Lighting Design for Theatre and received her Bachelors in Art History from the University of South Florida.
Sophie | Retoucher
Sophie has been with Nicole Thomas Photography for three years and currently retouches all our orders. Originally from Los Angeles, Sophie moved to Chicago to attend Columbia College Chicago, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Photography with a minor in Art History.
Outside of NTP, Sophie is a practicing artist working with medium and large format film to document subjects including identity and family. Sophie’s interest in analog photography derives from her desire to create in a way where the artist’s hand remains evident. She has exhibited her photography in the greater Chicago area and has been featured by Artists on the Lam. In her free time, Sophie can be found in the dark room developing her own film.
