Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY?

Lifestyle photography mainly aims to capture portraits of people in situations, real-life events or milestones in an artistic manner and the art of the everyday. The primary goal is to tell stories about people's lives or to inspire people in different times.
 
WHAT SHOULD WE WEAR?

Coordinate, don't match, when you are deciding what to wear for photos. When photographing families, start with the youngest and pull colors from their outfit to dress and layer everyone else. Layering can make a huge difference in tying in all the colors. If you still need help, I will put together a fashion board of outfit examples and let them know where to find the items!

WHY DON’T YOU RELEASE ALL OF THE PHOTOS YOU TAKE?

Simply put, you don't ask a professional photographer to give you their RAW photos because that would be giving you only half of an unfinished work of art. :)

DO YOU EDIT YOUR PHOTOS?
 
All delivered photos are edited in a tasteful way that follows my light + airy style. Editing is used to bring out life, color, contrast, and beauty in your images.

WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY PHOTOS?

Standard is about 2-4 week turn-around for family + couple sessions. About a 4- 8 week turn-around for weddings.

IS STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY AVAILABLE?

While I mainly shoot in-home and outside locations, we can get as adventurous as you'd like with the location. Studio rental is available and can be arranged. I have two preferred studio locations in Chicago but open to your studio of choice.

WHAT IF I NEED TO RESCHEDULE MY APPOINTMENT?

Captured By Sammi asks that you give 7 days minimum notice to reschedule your photoshoot. New time + date will be mutually agreed upon between photographer + client. 

WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL MY APPOINTMENT?

If you need to cancel, let Sammi know as soon as possible. The retainer fee is non-refundable. 

WHAT TIME OF DAY SHOULD WE SCHEDULE THE SHOOT?

Outdoor shoots are best taken just following the sunrise or slightly before the sunset- we call these times "blue hour" and "golden hour." Depending on children's schedules and other life circumstances, we know this is not always possible. When babies and children are involved, we would rather have happy faces and can work with the time of day that is best for your family. 

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE LOCATIONS TO SHOOT?

Shoots along Chicago's lakefront have been magical locations. Other favorites include Lincoln Park Zoo, North Avenue Beach, Anywhere on the beach, Grant Park, Local Botanic Gardens, and so many more spots!