Nightshade
By Kayla
Step into a world where love meets creativity and ordinary moments transform into extraordinary memories. Break away from traditional poses and backgrounds, and embark on a journey of self-expression and whimsy. Themed engagement sessions offer the perfect canvas to showcase your personalities and passions. Whether you're envisioning a romantic vintage picnic, a rustic countryside adventure, or a glamorous cityscape escapade.
Congratulations, You're Engaged!
You've recently gotten engaged to your best friend and love of your life. You want to celebrate that with a beautiful, quality photo album worthy of putting on your wedding invitations and hanging on your walls for decades to come. You find yourself with one small dilemma: You don't want plain, generic pictures. You want pictures that will really stand out and be memorable.
Maybe everyone you know seems to have gotten engaged the same time as you. Maybe this isn't your first rodeo and you really want to go all out this time because your ex was lame (good for you, btw). Maybe that girl who was really mean to you in high school is on your facebook and you want to flex on the haters (also good for you). Or, maybe you're just a fun person who isn't afraid to be bold.
Regardless, you've snooped your friends engagement photos and you've shopped around for your local photographers, but nothing is popping out for you. Their photos are beautiful and tasteful, but where is the spice?
In the realm of photography, capturing images that truly stand out requires more than just technical skill—it demands creativity, inspiration, and a touch of personal flair. One surefire way to ensure your photos stand out is to add some of your personality into them (And to find a photographer who can translate this into the image you want!). In this guide, we'll explore some tips for choosing a truly unique theme for your photo session, drawing inspiration from the things that ignite your soul.
Light and Breezy at the Beach
1.
Reflect on Your Passions: What do you and your partner love? What do you have in common? What have you bonded over? Begin by taking a moment to reflect on the things that bring you joy, excitement, and fulfillment in life. Whether it's a love for nature, a favorite piece of media, a fascination with vintage fashion, a love for your pets, ect. Identifying your passions is the first step toward selecting a theme that feels authentic and meaningful to you.
2.
Draw Inspiration from Your Surroundings: Look to your surroundings for inspiration. Pay attention to the world around you. What elements of your surroundings evoke a sense of wonder or intrigue? We're lucky enough to live in one of the most beautiful states in the country! Minnesota has endless opportunities for gorgeous outdoor backdrops. And if you aren't up for hiking, places like Duluth and Minneapolis have a wealth of culture, art, and architecture to capture.
3.
Consider Your Personal Story: Your own life experiences and journey can serve as a rich source of inspiration for your photo session theme. Reflect on significant milestones, cherished memories, or defining moments in your life. Where was your first date? Where did you first hear the words "I love you"? Where is your favorite place to spend time together? Every good photo has a story.
Magic in the Woods
4.
Embrace Creativity and Uniqueness: Don't be afraid to think outside the box and embrace unconventional ideas when selecting your photo session theme. Do you really love sports? Have fun with it. Are you super into Dungeons and Dragons? Go for it. Have you been really obsessed over this book series that forever changed your brain chemistry? (Is it obvious that I want to shoot an ACOTAR themed couples session..) In the wise words of the 1997 hit movie Air Bud: "there's no rule that says a dog can't play basketball"
5.
Cut Loose: Just go nuts. Have a camping themed shoot, jump in a lake, light some fireworks! Its not just about the photos, its about the memories.
6.
Travel Might be Worth it: A truly unique setting might be worth a day trip. If everyone you know has had their photos done at the same place, consider choosing somewhere no one else has!
Backpacking Adventure
7.
Do What YOU Want: Don't feel the need to take 'traditional' photos just because you think it is expected of you. This is your time, your engagement, your story. Above all, remember to stay true to yourself and your vision throughout the theme selection process. Choose a theme that resonates authentically with who you are. Your photo session should be a reflection of your unique personality, style, and perspective, so trust your instincts and select a theme that speaks to your heart.
8.
Find a Photographer Who Suits You: Not every photographer will have the flexibility to take on your idea. Every photographer is different, we all have different editing styles, aesthetics, and portfolios. And if you find yourself in Minnesota, overwhelmed and unable to decide on a photographer because you have a million other things to worry about, look no further. Contact me below and lets brainstorm!
