Kari Bedford Photography

09/24/2026

Every year, I see dreamy photos from the Downtown Springfield, Inc. Friends of the Market Dinner. I always covet a seat and a plate! But fall is such a busy time for photographers and I have never been able to attend. This year, I was fortunate enough to combine work AND pleasure. This is such a special way to close out the summer. I am so impressed with all of the folks whose hard work makes it possible -- from the ground up. The food was absolutely delicious. The light was beautiful. But the people who gathered together to share a meal and some moments are truly the best part. Tag your pals!

My Heart's Downtown Springfield, IL

09/20/2026

Such a lovely (and tasty) event!

09/02/2026

Seven years ago, this delightful, curly haired beauty came to me for her senior portraits. How lovely to be able to photograph her again as the polished, professional (but still free spirited) woman she has become!

08/28/2026

Monroe might be a little muddy tonight, but just pretend we’re somewhere in Appalachia after a good rain. A little thing like mud wouldn’t stop Dolly Parton from showing up, and it won’t stop us either.

We’ll be gathering in my studio tonight at 7:30 to celebrate a queen who wrapped us in her coat of many colors, taught us how to survive heartbreak, get through the 9 to 5, and keep looking for the light of a clear blue morning.

There’ll be sheet cake, bottled water, and lyrics for everyone. Bring an instrument if you like. Sing Jolene at the top of your lungs or just sit quietly and listen.

You don’t have to perform. You don’t even have to sing.

You just have to (always) love Dolly.

08/28/2026

Downtown people are resilient AF, y’all — but now would still be a very good time to really support Dumb Records, Gallina’s and the newest addition, The Bus Stop.

08/25/2026

I have loved Dolly Parton since I was a very small child. Her beauty, humor, brilliance, kindness and capacity for understanding were unmatched. I am so grateful for her life and so absolutely heartbroken by her passing. She was truly one of a kind.

To honor her memory, I am considering a Dolly Parton sing-a-long night in my studio.

If I build it, will you come?

Artwork: Hollie Chastain

08/20/2026

Record turnout at this year's ILDCCA brunch! The event featured Senator Elizabeth Warren as the keynote speaker. Each speaker honored Senator Dick Durbin and his extensive career not just as a politician, but an exemplary statesman.

08/06/2026

What do all of these beautiful people have in common?

MEEEEEEEEEEE. 😍😍😍

(Plus a little posing help and great lighting for fresh, classic headshots!)

If you are in need of an updated headshot but you aren't ready to invest in a full studio session, it's your lucky day! Come see me at Capital Area Realtors on Tuesday, August 11. I will be set up for professional headshots from 9:15 AM to noon.

No risk. No session fee. Just purchase what you love!

You must reserve your spot for this pop-up event in advance, so please click on the link in the comments!

08/06/2026

Thank you for the article, Springfield Scene Magazine!

(One minor correction: the renovation is still underway, so if you drive past my studio and see half-finished painting, no you didn't! 😂 Hoping to be finished by end of summer!

P.S. Has anyone seen my carpenter?)

Kari Bedford Photography Invests in Downtown Springfield with Historic Studio Renovation

08/05/2026

Here's your chance to update your headshot! Thanks to Capital Area Realtors, there is NO session fee. Just purchase what you love. Only $50 per image! 📷😍

Act quickly! This is a one-day, pop up event (Tuesday, August 11) and these opportunities are rare.

You must reserve your spot in advance by booking online:

https://www.headshottools.com/Booking.html?AcctId=9fde3f89-de13-4ce2-b3df-a2bb665fe63e&JobId=2026-08-05T17%3A14%3A03.866060

Already have a headshot you love? Please send this to everyone you know -- especially the ones who are still using an AI headshot, a selfie, or simply haven't updated their photos since Olan Mills was the only game in town. 😁😳