Leeneia- I agree with Mark. If you want the song in F, then so it is. How the guitarist wants to play it shouldn't be your main concern, as F may fit your vocal range for that song, (assuming you are the singer). Plus, some songs just sound better in a certain key.

We don't know the situation. If dealing with seasoned guitarists, "in F" should suffice. If you are playing with beginners, however, probably the easiest thing would be to instruct them to capo the first fret, and play in the key of E.

In any case, I think it is great that you show concern for making life easier for the folks you play with.

Mark, I think sometimes capoing half way up the neck fits a song, and doesn't always detract from the tone. It can fit some songs. I've also seen folks use custom capos, which only cover three, four or five strings, so that they still have the bass. One guy I know cuts Shubb capos to the desired length, and uses various tunings as well. Sounds great, but it's all too complicated for me. But then this guy makes his living from playing and singing. Plus there's the "Third Hand" adjustable capo, which only a madman or a genius would have the time to figure out, but offers innumerable ways to play a song when combined with alternative tunings. It features six cam-like sections, which can each be rotated to dampen it's string, or allow it to sound. A really clever device, in theory, but I've never had the time to learn to use it.

Thanks again, Leeneia, for thinking about your fellow musicians. Very generous. BlueJay