Special Events

When he’s not chasing kids around the park with his camera, Matt keeps busy photographing a host of other goings-on. Photographing benefits, openings and other community activities helps keep his eye fresh with different challenges. While putting on the occasional seminar keeps his brain from atrophying (well, mostly). Below are a few images from select events.

APARC Barn Dance | May 28, 2011

Polo Club de Chantilly á La Ferme d'Apremont

While on a recent trip to the l’Oise region of France Matt captured the magic of a good ol’ American Barn Dance! The local Anglophile association hosts a party every year for the members of the group. Two pigs were roasted, kids played Cowboys and Indians and much wine was consumed (what else would you drink in France?).

The Dance

Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry Head Shots | April 26, 2011

First United Church of Oak Park

As part of an ongoing photo project with the OPRF Food Pantry, Matt took some head shots of staff members for use on their website and other media.

The Food Pantry Staff

Lincoln Elementary School Art Auction | April 21, 2011

Sugarcup Trading | Oak Park

The PTO of River Forest’s Lincoln Elementary School held their first annual Art Auction at the Oak Park’s newest and hippest children’s clothing and toy store, Sugarcup Trading. In addition to incredible artwork produced by the students, individually and as a class, many talented parents contributed their own creations. Matt was on hand to capture the event.

The Artwork and the People

Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry Food Delivery | April 7, 2011

First United Church of Oak Park

Matt is helping the OPRF Food Pantry to update their library of images to help them further their mission of “Working together to provide hunger relief in our community”. Here are some images from one of the weekly food deliveries they receive from the Greater Chicago Food Depository. The volunteers had to get 18,000 pounds of food from the truck outside onto the shelves and into refrigerators. Everything from eggs and meat to pasta and sauce came in through the window, and down the ramp into the waiting hands of volunteers.

Food Delivery

Belle Center of Chicago’s Annual Gala | February 24, 2011

Kenmore Live Center

Matt was honored to be asked to photograph the Belle Center’s 2011 “Belle-a Notte” Gala. The event was hosted by Rob Johnson of CBS Chicago. Among the guests was Illinois Governor Pat Quinn. Check out a complete gallery of images from the evening.

Seminar - Take Better Pictures | December 5, 2010 @ 2:00pm

River Forest Public Library Main Conference Room

Join Matt at the River Forest Public Library for a couple hours of “talking shop”. He’ll provide some tips and hints for getting the most out of the best camera in the world - the one you have with you! Bring your camera along to unlock a “hidden” feature or two.

Here’s a copy of the presentation on Taking Better Pictures.

Blue Max Print and Album Exhibit | November 2010

Stop by Blue Max Coffee in Forest Park and enjoy a latte while gazing at some of Matt’s latest work. Eight stunning Liquidmount® prints, along with another eight framed pieces and several sample albums await!

Liquidmounts® from the Walls of Blue Max Coffee

Kermesse | June 2010

Fleurines, France

While in France, Matt had the opportunity to photograph the local village elementary school’s end of year festival (Kermesse), including children’s choral concert, games and races, and village BBQ picnic.

Willard Elementary School Brownie Roller Skating | June 2010

Lombard Roller Rink

The Brownies from Willard rock and rolled at the Lombard Roller Rink for their end-of-the-year party. They made it through the afternoon with NO broken bones!

Magical Minds Studio | Sunday, April 19th, 9am – Noon

343 Harrison Street, Oak Park

Bring your children to Magical Minds Studio to get a firsthand look at how lifestyle photography captures the true essence of your children. At Magical Minds Studio your children will be able to explore various art materials and creatively engage in the process of art. Matt will also be on hand, photographing kids as they draw, color and paint.

Images from the Magical Minds Event