Rachel's Photographic Style:

Rachel strives to capture true expressions. Using mostly natural light, she works to capture a child’s facial expressions and body language. Whether they are sleeping, laughing, or daydreaming, it is her goal to absorb that moment. As a mother of three young boys, Rachel knows how to engage the kids and put them at ease. Rachel will often use music, a run around a park, or tell a funny joke to help their personalities shine through. The goal is to get a candid shot of who they are at that moment. Rachel tries to avoid posed "say cheese" pictures. All pictures are taken digitally and can be developed in color or black and white.

Session Duration

Sessions last between one and two hours, but are never rushed. Session fees are for the time and talent of the photographer. Session fees are non-refundable, and are due at the time of booking. Newborn and toddler sessions can take longer depending on their temperament, feeding, and changing needs.

Location, location, location

Ample natural light is the most important factor to consider when choosing a location. Because the sun can cast shadows, especially on faces, cloudy days are typically the best days for outdoor pictures. Should you choose an indoor sitting, Rachel will work with you to select the best location. Children usually photograph best in a location they are comfortable in, like their home or at a familiar park. Since we live in Chicago, during the cold months we will schedule indoor shoots during the brightest hours of the day (10 am - 2pm).

Session Follow-up & Image Viewing

About week after your session date, your gallery will be ready for viewing.  Once it is ready, you will receive an email alerting you along with a print minimum invoice. Your online password protected gallery will be open for viewing once your invoice for the $300 print order minimum is paid. That payment will be used as a credit towards your print order. Your gallery will be available for viewing and purchasing prints for up to 5 days.  There is a $50 fee per week fee to extend your gallery. I am always more that happy to help you narrow down your selections over the phone or in person. Those conversations must take place in your 5 days window. 

Prints will be available approximately 4 weeks after placing order. Canvas wrapped prints and albums will take longer.

Facebook posts and sneak peaks will not be available until after your order has been placed.

At time of placing your print order, 100% of the total will be due.

Accepted method of payment - cash and personal check all orders are subject to illinois and cook county sales tax.