Creating the Vision
For this shoot, I was all about capturing those whimsical vibes. You know that scene in Tuck Everlasting where Winnie’s dancing around the fire? For some reason, that popped into my head as the perfect inspiration. I wanted the shoot to feel playful, fun, and a little bit magical, which fit their personalities perfectly. I’m all about matching the vibe to the couple—I'd never choose an aesthetic that doesn't feel like them.
Planning the Shoot
I knew I wanted a big open space for this shoot, especially with all the running shots I had in mind. Turns out, finding a wide field without houses or buildings popping up in the background is harder than you’d think around St. Louis. But then I found The Fabick Nature Preserve in Fenton, MO, and it was perfect for what I needed!
Abbie had sent me a pic of her white lace dress beforehand, and I immediately knew it was a match made in heaven for this shoot. Neutrals and earth tones are always the way to go—they don’t distract and blend beautifully with natural settings. Plus, it’s key to feel comfy and able to move, so something flowy and loose is always a good call.
Poses and Prompts
The first 15 minutes of a shoot can feel a little awkward, and that’s totally normal—especially if it’s your first one! I always tell couples right off the bat that it’s expected, and not to worry, because I’ll guide them the whole way. We start off slow and easy with simple poses to ease into it. After about 10 minutes, we’ll mix in some fun, silly prompts to really loosen things up. By the time we get to the romantic shots, everything feels way more natural and relaxed.
Why Couples Photos Matter
The most important thing about this shoot was that they genuinely had a blast. Couples sessions are a lot like a fun date! It’s a chance to be playful, connect, and really show off your love. My hope is that these are memories they’ll hold onto forever. Sure, photos might seem a bit frivolous or silly in the moment, but fast forward 50 years—when you're showing these to your kids or grandkids—it’s so special to have a piece of your love story to look back on. You’ll see how you looked at each other, the laughter, the little moments that made you fall in love. It’s such a sweet reminder of where it all began.
