I grew up in a family that encouraged making things—whether it was painting, sewing, knitting, taking photos, making jewelry and candles, cooking…you name it! But more than that, my family was big and close. (Think, 60 people at Thanksgiving!) We aren’t just relatives—we have always been each other’s biggest supporters. My parents are my best friends, and so are my cousins!

Our home was full of love, traditions, and the kind of memories that shape you in ways you don’t even realize until you’re older. The way we celebrated life, big and small, taught me how important it is to hold onto the moments that matter. Maybe that’s why photography became so important to me—it’s my way of preserving love, just like my family always has!

Aside from growing up singing & dancing, I was always the kid who carried a camera everywhere. It became my way of seeing the world. Documenting everything from family trips to quiet little moments that felt important; even if I didn’t know why at the time.

I brought a disposable camera on the first and last day of school, every year, and even made scrapbooks for all of my friends! Looking back, I realize I was always drawn to storytelling, to the emotions behind a moment…to the feeling of remembering something before it even became a memory. 

Back then, I never imagined I could actually do this for a living—that something I loved so much could turn into my career! (Although I always dreamed it would). But to me, this is more than just my job—it’s an extension of who I am, and I feel unbelievably blessed! This is truly my dream, and I don’t take a second of it for granted.

Creativity has always been who I am...

lil me

the fam

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the family
that made me

the women who
shaped me

my inspiration

Among my most treasured possessions is a vintage brooch. Originally belonging to my great-grandmother, it was later gifted to me by my grandmother. With a hand painted pink rose on a circular mother of pearl pendant, dangling below a cream colored bow — the brooch is delicate and feminine. But the best part? When you turn it over, it reveals a small black & white photograph of my grandmother as a little girl.

It’s not just jewelry — it’s a piece of my family’s story…holding a lifetime of memories, traditions, and the love of generations before me. Family has always been the heart of me, and this heirloom is a constant reminder of where I come from and what I hold most dear. When creating the new brand for “Love, Rachel Photography”, it felt right to draw inspiration from this beautiful piece — a symbol of love, nostalgia, and timeless connection.

Inspired by a treasured family heirloom —
a symbol of love, nostalgia, and timeless connection