Behind the cameras of Big Smile
After years of working together for two of the nation's largest school photography companies, we knew there was a better way. We believed schools and families deserved a more personal experience - one built on exceptional service, genuine relationships, and a company that truly listens. That's why we founded Big Smile School Portraits.
As a locally owned and family-focused business, we put schools first. We believe every child deserves to feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera, and every school deserves a dependable partner who makes picture day organized, stress-free, and even enjoyable. Our experienced team takes the time to capture genuine smiles and create portraits families will treasure for years to come.
One of the greatest rewards of building Big Smile has been the opportunity to continue working with so many of the principals, administrators, teachers, and school communities we've had the privilege of serving throughout our careers. Their trust and continued partnership mean more to us than we can express, and we're incredibly grateful for the lasting relationships we've built over the years.
At Big Smile School Portraits, we're not just taking school pictures - we're building lasting partnerships and preserving memories that families will cherish for generations.
Meet Erik and Nicole
Erik Petrovic
Erik Petrovic is a graduate of Northern Illinois University. A proud Chicago Public Schools alumnus, he attended Edison School and Lane Tech College Prep before beginning his career in the school photography industry.
Erik has been married to his wife, Jen, for more than 20 years, and together they have two children. Their daughter is following in her mother's footsteps by attending Iowa State University, where she is pursuing a degree in elementary education with plans to become a third-grade teacher. Their son attends Western Illinois University and is working toward a career as a firefighter and paramedic.
Outside of photography, Erik enjoys spending time with his family and takes great pride in building lasting relationships with schools and supporting the communities Big Smile School Portraits serves. He is passionate about creating a picture day experience that is organized, dependable, and enjoyable for students, parents, and school staff alike.
Nicole Michelotti
Nicole is a graduate of Columbia College Chicago, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Photography. She grew up in Mt. Prospect, Illinois, and currently resides in Arlington Heights.
Nicole found her niche in school photography in 2008 while working for a local photography company. Since then, she has photographed thousands of smiling faces across the Chicagoland area while holding leadership roles with some of the nation's largest school photography companies.
Wanting to bring a more personal, organized, and customer-focused approach to picture day, Nicole partnered with Erik to create Big Smile School Portraits.
When she's not behind the camera, Nicole enjoys discovering new music, exploring the country in her Subaru, and embracing life's adventures. She believes the best pictures happen when people feel comfortable enough to simply be themselves - and that's the experience she strives to create for every child in front of her camera.