Lifestyle Family Photography in Chicago
Your Family’s Story
just as it is
Time moves quietly, almost unnoticed.
One day, your child is resting against your chest, their breath warm and steady. The next, they’re reaching for your hand with fingers that feel just a little bigger than before. These days—these moments—won’t always look the same. But right now, they are yours to hold onto.
I'm rachel, Your Chicago Lifestyle Family Photographer
I believe in the way your love unfolds naturally
I don’t believe in stiff poses or forced smiles. I believe in laughter echoing through your home, in the quiet comfort of a sleepy embrace, in the way your family just is when no one is watching.
Because the most beautiful moments aren’t staged. They’re the ones that happen between the expected—the way your child nestles into your arms, the unspoken glances between parents, the way your family fits together in a way that feels like home.
Photos with moments that echo even after the laughter softens.
Parenthood is full of movement and emotion—messy, beautiful, and deeply real. My sessions are unhurried, leaving space for real connection and authentic joy.
Comfort in the Familiar: Whether at home or in a favorite outdoor spot, I’ll meet you where your family feels most at ease. The place where giggles come easy, where your little one feels safe enough to explore, where love is found in the simplest of moments.
Gentle Guidance: No awkward posing, no pressure. I’ll encourage you with soft prompts—holding hands, brushing hair behind a little ear, leaning in close—to capture the way you feel together, not just how you look.
Real, Honest Moments: The belly laughs, the sleepy cuddles, the way tiny arms wrap around your neck—these are the details that matter. The ones that become the stories you tell for years to come.
A family lifestyle session isn’t about performing for the camera—it’s about presence. It’s about capturing the heart of your family in its truest form.
It’s about the illuminating the beauty in-between.
I’ll guide you through soft, natural interactions—like whispering a secret in your child’s ear, wrapping them up in your arms, or letting them run barefoot in the grass while you watch with a full heart. These are the moments that tell your story.
Your family, just as you are
Chicago Lifestyle
Family Photography
Unhurried.
Unposed.
Within two weeks, you’ll receive a gallery of hand-edited images that reflect the soul of your story—images you’ll return to when the days feel like a blur.
REMEMBER
This is where the magic happens. We’ll laugh, play, and let the in-between moments unfold naturally. I’ll gently guide you while honoring the realness of your connection.
ILLUMINATE
You’ll receive a session prep guide and personalized style tips to help you feel confident, comfortable, and truly yourself. No stress—just support.
PREPARE
Reach out and tell me what’s on your heart. I want to hear your story—what you’re hoping to remember, and what this season feels like for you.
CONNECT
it's what means the most for me
Your ExperiEnce
–Stephanie
Rachel is an amazing photographer and captured our little family so beautifully. She makes you feel comfortable during the shoot and captures the raw and sweet moments perfectly. Not only is she a creative photogrpaher, but also a kind human. You will feel right at home and confident behind her lens. The memories will be ones you and your family will cherish forever.
She makes you feel comfortable,and captures the raw and sweet moments perfectly.
–Natalie
Her photos have a unique and creative perspective that is simply incredible. They tell a story–more importantly–YOUR story. She focuses on the raw emotion and encourages clients to just be present with each other and have fun! There is nothing more magical than just being your true self and having someone capture the beauty. I would especially recommend Rachel if you’re looking for more candid, raw emotional moments—more of the “in-betweens” (laughing, walking, talking, kissing) as opposed to the posed photos.
She encourages clients to just be present with each other and have fun!
A sweet and simple way to pause time for just one season. Whether it’s those gummy baby smiles or a quiet moment wrapped in your arms, this session is here to hold whatever feels most important right now.
Session Fee: $275
• Up to 45 minutes together, plenty of time for snuggles, breaks, and just being you
• A slow, relaxed pace with no pressure to pose or perform
• Session prep and styling guidance so you feel comfortable from the start
• Digital images are purchased separately after you view your gallery, collections begin at $280
for preserving the beginning
The Simple Session
You’ll receive a gallery of 40+ hand-edited images. From there, you can choose between three digital collections: Petite (8 images), Classic (20), or Heirloom (the full gallery).
How many images are included?
I keep editing light and natural. I’ll remove temporary blemishes and distractions, but I want your gallery to reflect the real beauty of your family—just as you are.
Will you photoshop our pictures?
That’s totally okay. I don’t expect “perfect” behavior—I expect real kids being themselves. We’ll laugh, play, and let their personalities shine. The goal isn’t stillness—it’s connection.
what if my kids don't smile or follow directions?
Absolutely. Whether you’re hoping to document a multigenerational gathering, add on a seasonal session, or need something more tailored—I’m happy to create a package that fits your family’s needs.
Can you create a custom package for us?
Yes! I photograph families all across the Chicago suburbs and beyond. If you have a location that feels like home to your story, I’d love to come to you.
Are you available for travel?
Because the best moments aren’t posed—they’re felt. Lifestyle photography honors the real connection you share: the giggles, the chaos, the quiet in-between. These are the memories your heart will return to again and again.
Why Choose Lifestyle Photography for Your Family?
FAQ
I know these moments feel fleeting, but they’re part of the incredible story you’re writing — the one your child will look back on and see just how deeply they were loved before they even arrived.
Will you remember how it felt
