To be loved is to be known.
Central Illinois Wedding Photographer
You care deeply about your people. I can tell.
Your wedding (or elopement or engagement) isn't just about your love.
It's also about:
The people who showed up.
The friends who have known you forever.
The family you were born into.
The family you chose.
The person who traveled to be there.
The person who made you laugh when you were nervous.
Cinematic Storytelling for Sentimental Souls
The people you'll wish you could have one more night with years from now.
I'm here to photograph all of it.
My photography style as a mix of candid (in the moment), posed (I give specific guidance) and prompted photos (a mix of my direction + you own personality.)
Light is one of my favorite parts of my work; whether I make my own light with flash or light stands, or use the lighting given to me- the mood of the environment, or natural light.
Overall, if I had to describe my work in one word, it's intentional.
I want your photos to feel like art without making the process feel like a photoshoot.
My STYLE
I'm here for traditions if they actually mean something to you. But if they don't? Ditch 'em. Cool. No bouquet toss? Great. Don't want a first dance? Cool. Want to get married at the courthouse and eat fast food afterward? Here for it. Planning to combine your last names? I love that.
Your wedding should be a reflection of your relationship, not a checklist of things you've been told you're supposed to do.
Whether you're planning a big wedding, an intimate elopement, courthouse nuptials, or engagement photos, you care more about meaning than tradition.
My PEOPLE
I'll give you direction when you need it and space when you don't. I believe the best photos aren't always the ones where everyone is looking at the camera.
Sometimes they're the ones where...Your best friend is crying. Your grandma is laughing. Your partner is looking at you when you aren't paying attention. Someone is absolutely losing their mind on the dance floor.
Those are the photos I want to make.
I'm Rachael (she/her) by the way.
For the people who would rather be living the moment than posing for it.
"There is a zero percent chance we could've found a better photographer than Rachael for our wedding day.
She was helpful to me on the day of and prior beyond her job as photographer and I am forever grateful.
My partner and I are quiet, creative people. She kept our unique personalities and artistic ideas in mind throughout the whole process. We love how our photos showcased who we are as a couple.
- Jamie + Manny
"She is talented, enthusiastic, organized, and makes everyone comfortable."
We booked Rachael from out of state, we wanted her that much!
Throughout the whole process, she was been nothing but patient, kind, and all-around incredible. She kept us posted on any updates she would have, and was willing to work with us if any problems came up on our end.
She had great communication and you can tell that she really has a passion for what she's doing and wants to do her best to help you as the couple truly celebrate and enjoy your day.
- Taylor + Tyler
"Rachael really has a passion for what she's doing."
"On our wedding day, Rachael went above and beyond, taking time to check in with how we were feeling on timeline, etc. and made sure things kept running smoothly.
All of our friends and family had nothing but great things to say about her and her work. We received so much positive feedback about our photos and how great she was. She made everyone feel relaxed and comfortable.
We love all of the beautiful photos she captured of our day and our favorite people."
- Kelly + Seth
"Our guests raved about Rachael."
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