'The Best Of Lemont': Local Photog Captures Memories, Community Events

LEMONT, IL — As the woman behind the camera, she can be spotted at most Lemont events, snapping photos of families and candid moments enjoying various festivals. A life-long lover of photography and videography, Brigid Presecky, owner of Hilltop Photo Co., has documented several years of Lemont's community events.

Growing up in Lemont, Presecky told Patch she wanted a name that was "simple, memorable and tied to home." She landed on Hilltop Photo Co., as she grew up in the Hilltop Estates subdivision.

"My siblings and I always loved photography and videography, taking countless photos on disposable cameras, point-and-shoot cameras and filming sketch shows in our basement," she told Patch. "The visual medium was always attractive to me, so much so that I bought a DSLR (out of my price range) in 2017 and offered to take photos for friends and family to justify the cost."

Hilltop Photo Co. was created soon after, specializing in event, portrait and brand photography. Presecky said this includes family photos, weddings, engagements, newborn sessions, milestone celebrations, headshots and corporate events.

"I love the variety. No two sessions are ever the same," she added.

As fall approaches, Presecky is offering fall mini sessions in downtown Lemont. Families can book sessions through her business' website.

A graduate of Bradley University, Presecky said she loved growing up in Lemont, and one of the most meaningful parts of her business has been documenting Lemont's community moments.

"The Village has supported me from the start, thanks to Linda Molitor, Jason Berry, Julie Thomas, Sommer Steele, All Together Studio and so many more people," she said. "They have really understood my vision and style of working, and together we’ve showcased what makes Lemont so special and what this town has to offer."

Presecky has photographed everything from Keepataw Days to Hometown Holidays; Fall on Canal to wine and wellness walks.

"If I had to pick one singular favorite event the Village puts on, it’s the St. Patrick’s Day Parade; by March, everyone is so happy to be outside when the weather is getting warmer, there’s less pressure with the holiday madness being over, it’s all ages," she said. "The St. Patrick’s Day Parade really encapsulates the best of Lemont, and I love photographing that event most of all. Bring on the bagpipes."

Eight years into owning her business, Presecky said she has "had the privilege of meeting so many families, watching them grow and capturing their milestones along the way. I would love to meet more people in this community this fall."