Frequently Asked Questions

The most important thing is to feel comfortable in what you are wearing. We'll likely walk around to use different scenery and backgrounds so I recommend bringing a pair of walking shoes to switch into, especially if heels are your fun thing! Neutral staples are great wardrobe options - a well fitting pair of jeans or khakis will go a long way. Comfy tops, flowy dresses, and pressed or ironed shirts are classic. Some clients even opt for fabrics that won't wrinkle easily. Don't be afraid to combine colors and patterns and play with complimentary accessories. If possible, avoid brands or logos for a more timeless feel. Lastly, women (moms) tend to be the ones to schedule photography sessions as well as coordinate the family wardrobe. They also tend to be the ones to pick their outfit last. Don't do that. This will leave you scrambling for an outfit that fits the motif versus what you like and feel good in. Pick your outfit first. Then build around that. Take a peek at some of my portfolio galleries below to get an idea of how outfits photograph.

Speaking from experience, whatever you can pleasantly -negotiate- with kids {young or old}. Sessions are intended to capture the connections within your family and instead of becoming the wardrobe villain, I would rather you enjoy the experience as much as possible. Personally, I like to lay out my own family's outfits together to double check the balance and flow of patterns and colors. Have a dress rehearsal beforehand. This gives everyone a chance to try on their outfits and give their honest feedback. Encourage everyone to feel confident in their selection. If needed, this gives you a chance to do a quick swap. But remember, kids will be kids. Halfway through my own family sessions, my youngest will pull out her carefully braided hair or run around shoeless. Happens to the best of us. Totally normal and to be expected. Luckily, I'm used to chasing after them!

Understanding the intent of your session is vital to me. It can reveal information on what type(s) of photos are important to you. This helps me brainstorm and prepare a collaborative effort to to exceed your expectations. Be sure to share any details that will help me to help you.

Lighting conditions change every day, down to the hours and minutes! Depending on sunny or not, April or August, cold or hot... it all matters. I've photographed at the same location multiple times and each time will yield different results based on all of the variables listed above + then some. Hire me based on my experience with clients and the style of photography that you love. My personality doesn't hurt either! I'll know pretty quickly (doesn't matter on the location) where the best place to set up for pictures will be. My sessions are tailored for you and your needs. As far as locations, I have a few recommendations to offer after we discuss your session goals.

The weather is always a variable. But thankfully, cloudy days are just as beautiful to photograph in as sunshine or sunsets. Think of the clouds as a natural light filter. Rain, however, is a totally different animal. Unless we have an alternate indoor destination to capture those gorgeous smiles in -or- if we plan to utilize the rain for puddle jumping, I recommend rescheduling sessions.

Location and Lighting ---
Home: Lifestyle sessions will take place in your home. Ensure the area is tidy and has good natural light.
Natural Light: Schedule the session during the day when natural light is abundant, preferably near windows. Over the next few days, take note of the places in your home that allow natural light to filter in and what times of day the lighting looks best. This will help us coordinate a time of day for the session.

Wardrobe ---
Comfortable Clothing: Wear clothes that are comfortable and make you feel good. Soft, neutral colors work well.
Coordinate Outfits: Consider coordinating outfits among family members without being overly matchy. Many lifestyle newborn sessions are barefoot, so treat yourself to a pedicure!

Props and Accessories ---
Meaningful Items: Incorporate personal items like blankets, toys, or books that are special to your family.
Baby Gear: Have the baby’s nursery items ready, like swaddles, hats, or any cherished keepsakes. Anything special I can capture here (even if it is just a name on the wall, the crib, a stuffed animal.) I know you are in the process of getting settled in after a move, but don't feel like the nursery is a lost cause. We can find beautiful spaces and memories anywhere.

Prepare the Baby ---
Feeding: Make sure the baby is fed before the session to help them be calm and content.
Diaper Change: Have a fresh diaper on hand and consider dressing them in easy-to-remove outfits.

Relax and Enjoy ---
Stay Calm: Your energy will reflect in the photos. Try to relax and enjoy the moment.
Be Yourself: The goal is to capture genuine interactions, so don’t worry about posing too much.

This is going to sound silly and slightly off topic, but eat a snack before your session. Especially young children. Nobody likes to smile for that long with a grumbling hungry stomach. Bring along some clean snacks to keep the momentum going. I recommend snacks like popcorn, mini marshmallows, crackers, and water - easy to snack on and less likely to stain. Also know that I can easily touch-up little crumbs and water spots, if need be.

Client galleries are available for download via a secure access link for 60 days. After 60 days, the gallery will expire and will no longer be available.

Click on the link emailed to you into your browser. Enter the gallery password provided to you in the email. You will see the a cover photo with the name of you gallery. Now you can view your entire collection.

VIEW AND SHARE
Click on a photo and simply hover over the "share" icon to see your options for sharing to social media.

FAVORITES
Click on the heart icon to mark your favorite images.

DOWNLOAD
On the main screen, locate the download symbol, just below the large cover photo. Click on the download icon and it will redirect you to a new screen and prompt you to enter your email and the 4-digit pin you received with your personal gallery link. A link will be sent to the email address provided. Your files will download as a "zipped" folder. For most systems, you can right-click and click "Unzip folder."

A print release is a legal document that gives a client the right to print photographs they have received from me, Rachel Capps Photography. The print release is specifically for personal and non-commercial usage. (See download link above.)