Hello There!!

I am Rachel. I look forward to hearing from you!

Do you have a question, or is there anything else I can help you with? Feel free to connect with me here, on facebook, or instagram. Links are below.

My Story

How I Got Started

I was a funeral Director and Embalmer for over eight years. That experience career has given me a knack for attention to detail and making everyone look their best. I have a keen eye for intriguing and intimate shots and that has brought me quick recognition among my peers and many photo critique web sites.

The birth of my children in the late 1990’s gave life to a new talent. I embraced photography whole heartedly. My prime ambition was to get that “perfect” shot of my kids for our family scrapbook albums. I received a Canon Rebel SLR from my aunt. Those days were lean, so for years many of my Christmas presents were film that came with processing. In 2005 I bought in the digital photography realm. For the next two years she took many classes on photography and photo editing. Due to the demand to turn the hobby into a growing business, Madchen Studios opened it’s doors in early February 2007.

In 2010 Madchen Studios was able to open a studio in the heart of Medicine Hat’s downtown district. It was during this time that I became a nationally accredited photographer with the Professional Photographers of Canada. For 6 years Madchen Studios served the community of Southern Alberta with Photography. Madchen Media was born during this time as the need for design services grew larger.

In 2016 a debilating shoulder injury caused me to take a break. I closed the studio doors, and began to further study photography and design while working on healing my shoulder.

In 2018 Madchen Studios and Madchen Media are both back and happily serving our local market here in Medicine Hat as well as many other companies world wide.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you offer digital files?

All of my sessions include digital files. The amount will be specified in the portrait collection that you choose. If you are looking for prints, I can do that as well, just let me know. 🙂

What should I wear to my session?

Ideally we will discuss this before your session. I strive to create individual sessions that are tailored to your desired feel. In the meantime I can offer some broad advice. Clothing choices should more often than not be simple, however that ultimately should depend on you personality.
For a classic, timeless look, jeans, plain (long-sleeved) tees and simple dresses are good choices. Solid colors in subtle tones work well for this style.
For a hip, trendy look choose brighter, bolder colors. Patterns can be fun, but most often distract from the subject being photographed. I strongly suggest avoiding busy patterns, cartoon characters and logos.
Accessories can be fun additions to your session. Hats, belts, sunglasses, shades, etc are all great. If you are wearing shoes, make sure they are in good condition and not dirty or scuffed. You may want to consider bare feet, which are a fun alternative to shoes.

I know I need photos, but don't know exactly when, can I contact you anyways?

Absolutely! Please let’s chat! I would love to have a chance to assist you working through your photo “blockers” and help you come up with some great solutions that have you looking forward to your next photo session whenever it may be!

I need a headshot and photos to the designer this week, can you do that?

I sure can! If you have a deadline or need a rush order, I have a package for that. Hit me up 🙂