In this week’s Soft Focus essay, A Bowl of Buckeyes, we reflect on a full week of family milestones, studio headshots, a small kitchen remodel, and a meaningful ultrasound appointment — all through the lens of slowing down and noticing what truly matters. From an antique English bowl filled with buckeyes to the quiet art of choosing presence over productivity, this piece explores intentional living, generational traditions, and finding beauty in ordinary moments at Our Cozy Compound. Plus: a Parisian-inspired local café in Hinsdale, Anthropologie garden tools we’re loving, whimsical fashion illustration inspiration, and a simple senior photo tip that never fails.

Hello, friends,

This week arrived quickly.

After a slower, quieter start to the year, it felt a little like being dropped back into the middle of things—suddenly in motion again. The days filled fast with a cake smash session, a newborn, a maternity session, headshots for a local author, a scientist, and a literary archivist, and ended on the sweetest note with a beautiful breastfeeding mini and a studio showing for a baby shower rental.

It was full in the best way—but full all the same…

Soft Focus Sunday

a note from Alicia Staley Johnson

PHOTOGRAPHY, FINE ART, & LIFE IN BLOOM

As I sit down to write this, the studio is quiet and the morning light is coming through the windows — it’s a calm start to the day, and a good time to share something new with you.

I’ve decided to start this Sunday newsletter as a way to stay in touch, share what’s going on behind the scenes, and let you in on a little more of the heart behind both Alicia’s Photography and Alicia’s Fine Art. Whether we’ve worked together before or you’ve just discovered my work, I’m glad you’re here. My goal is simple: to keep creating beauty, telling meaningful stories, and sharing the journey along the way.

Well Hello!

Welcome to the world of laughter, love, and lasting memories – captured through the lens of your favorite photographer (that’s me!). If you’re ready to turn your family photos into a beautiful art gallery of genuine joy and beauty, you’ve come to the right place.