Intimate Pool Hall Engagement Photos Grand Rapids Michigan

When it came to their engagement photos in Grand Rapids Michigan, Kelcey had a game plan.  There are few things I enjoy more as an engagement photographer than when my clients want to approach their session with an out-of-the-box idea!  Kelcey & Luke wanted photos that felt uniquely them so we brainstormed ideas that gave them the best of both worlds.  Their engagement session was a two-parter & equal parts cool & classic.  It’s going to be a long-time favorite of mine!

Planning A Michigan Engagement Session

So often, I think that when couples imagine engagement photos, they envision ‘pretty’ locations and a wardrobe that is a little more high end than what they’d wear on a typical date night. Here’s the thing: if that isn’t you, you don’t have to fake it for your photos!  Your session can take place wherever you want (within reason, obviously) and you can wear whatever you feel most comfortable in.  They’re your photos after all.  Instead,  I like to brainstorm with my couples locations/things that are meaningful to them and how we can incorporate that into our session!

Anezah Sands Pool Hall Engagement Photos Michigan

Anezah Sands Pool Hall in Grand Rapids, MI is one of Kelcey & Luke’s favorite date night spots, so we started there! I think playing pool is such a fun and unique shoot idea and it was fun to lean into the grunginess of the location.  (A little tip–  if you want to use a business like this for your session, make sure you talk to the management to get permission. We opted to go in the morning, right when they opened to avoid crowds. With any public space, I always encourage my couple to pick “off” hours so we’re not disturbing anyone. It also makes clients more comfortable when there isn’t a huge audience watching their every move.)

East Hills Michigan Engagement Session

Kelcey had reached out to me because I had taken her friend’s photos! She had been following me for a while so she kind of knew that I like nontraditional vibes. When she reached out for a shoot, she had a bunch of fun ideas, but they also wanted to include their dog who couldn’t join us at the pool hall. So, once we wrapped up there, I met up with them in East Hills for an outdoor shoot! We stopped at a stunning building and met their dog there for a few photos. Full disclosure: it was absolutely freezing, so that portion lasted maybe 15 minutes! However, we accomplished some great shots before we nearly froze.

Finding Wedding Photographers in Grand Rapids

Since their engagement photos, the discussion has come up about me also shooting their wedding. Here’s another tip for engaged couples in Grand Rapids– an engagement session is a great way to “test out” a photographer to make sure you like their style and personality! While engagement shoots are personal, a wedding takes it above & beyond, and it’s so important that you vibe with your photographer. Of all the things to consider when planning your big day, this one is one of the biggest considerations! Speaking of hiring a wedding photographer…

Engagement + Wedding Photographer Michigan

Hey, I’m Anika! If you’re dreaming of engagement photos that feel like you or a wedding day filled with real, unscripted moments, you’re in the right place. I specialize in capturing love stories in Grand Rapids, whether you’re strolling through downtown, exploring scenic parks, or celebrating with your favorite people. No awkward poses, no pressure—just genuine connection, big laughs, and all the little moments that make your love story yours. Sound like your vibe? Let’s create something unforgettable together! Check out my wedding and engagement photography packages, and contact me here to make some magic happen!