I was born in the golden hills of Northern California where I rode and worked at a Western barn all growing up. I continued casually riding into my early teens, until the magic of theatre took over.
Pursuing theatre and acting as a career, I moved to Chicago to attend DePaul University's conservatory acting program where I graduated with a dual degree in Acting and Relational Communication. This unique skillset has helped me grow into a professional storyteller whether onstage or behind the lens.
My father gifted me an old Nikon D80 when I was about 13. I grew up photographing everything I could - our family dogs, travel, and castmates in plays. This led to a side job photographing actor headshots throughout college and shortly after I was reunited with horses, this time in the English disciplines.
As an avid equestrian (working dressage student and equine rehab) one thing led to the next, and that passion for storytelling, animals, and photography became Allegra Imaging LLC which offers full service Equine Photography and Family Portraits. I currently live in Northern Illinois in the Chicagoland area and enjoy visiting nature preserves, coffee shop hangs, and seeing live music.
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"Claire is an incredible photographer who ensures her subjects are comfortable the entire time. My spouse, horse, and I had such a wonderful experience with Claire. Choosing photos was incredibly difficult and I could not be happier. I cannot wait to book her again this fall!"
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"We have utilized Claire for multiple branding sessions and I have used her personally for annual family pictures. She is always on-time, professional, gives thought to the shoot ahead of time, asks great questions about what we are trying to accomplish with each shoot... I could go on and on. Her turn-around time for photos is fantastic as well. I would (and already have) recommended her to many other friends and business associates. You will not be disappointed in her work."
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Allegra Imaging offers Equine Photography in Chicago, Elgin, Rockford, Saint Charles, Maple Park, Aurora, Barrington, Woodstock, and other locations around Illinois and Wisconsin. I am also available for travel in the midwest and beyond.