About Me

Hi, I’m Nicole! I’m the photographer behind Nicole Vadas Photography, serving Northwest Indiana and the greater Chicagoland area.

When I’m not behind the camera, I’m a wife to my husband, Adam, mom to three amazing adult children, and grandma to our sweet grandson, Grayson—the absolute light of our lives. Family means everything to me. We love to travel, camp, stay active, explore new places, and make memories together whenever we can.

I’ve always had a creative side and a love for photography, but I never imagined it would eventually become my career. Before photography, I spent eight years as a social worker and 15 years working in the fitness and nutritional supplement industry. While those careers may seem completely different from photography, they all have one very important thing in common: people.

I genuinely love connecting with people.

In 2020, I decided to take something I had loved for years and turn it into a full-time career. Today, I have the privilege of photographing seniors, athletes, families, couples, weddings, and so many of life’s important milestones.

My approach to photography is about more than creating beautiful images. I want you to enjoy the experience of creating them.

I know stepping in front of a camera can feel intimidating. Most people aren’t sure how to pose, where to look, or what to do with their hands—and you don’t need to know! That’s my job. I’ll guide you through the entire session while keeping things relaxed, natural, and fun.

One of the greatest compliments a client can give me is, “You made me feel so comfortable.”

That means just as much to me as hearing how much they love their photographs.

Because years from now, I want you to look at your images and remember more than what you looked like. I want you to remember the people you loved, the season of life you were in, and how you felt in that moment.

Beautiful photographs. Genuine connections. Memories worth keeping.