Tips to Personalize Your Session: Michigan Couples Photographer

As a West Michigan couples photographer, I find myself giving the same advice to my clients again & again.  Your engagement or couples session should feel like you—not just a staged photo shoot. So, how do we accomplish a personalized session? By infusing your personalities and little details that are significant to the two of you, your photoshoot becomes a reflection of your relationship.  Here are seven of my favorite ways to personalize your couples photoshoot!

1. Choosing a Location for Your Michigan Couples Photoshoot

The saying, “Location, location, location!” exists for a reason, and it also applies to couples photos!  As a Michigan couples and engagement photographer, I will always take a personal location over a “pretty” one that holds no meaning to my clients! I tell my couples to dig deep– think about the places they visit frequently and love the most. The right location can also help create a more comfortable atmosphere as well. If you’re at your favorite coffee shop or at your home, completely in your element, you’re going to feel more at ease compared to a brand new location. When you feel at ease or at home instead of out of place, your smiles will be more genuine and your body will be more relaxed. Don’t skimp on this decision!

2. Plan Ahead for Your Couples Photoshoot

Prepping for your session is NOT underrated! Everyone is different—your partner may be more or less nervous than you. Before your shoot, take a few minutes to talk about expectations. How do you want the session to feel? What kind of photos do you both envision? What types of poses and shots are you comfortable with during your session? Open communication makes a huge difference in how comfortable and connected you’ll feel during your session.

3. Prop Ideas for Engagement Photos in Michigan

Another great way to make your session a true reflection of your relationship is to incorporate props! It’s about more than just adding to the aesthetic (although, there is that added perk), it keeps your hands busy to help you feel more at ease.  They can be anything, too!  It could be a pizza from the restaurant where you had your 3rd date. You could also bring along the guitar you played for your S/O that made them fall in love with you. If you’re not sure where to start, focus on the things that mean the most to you and your relationship!

4. Plan a Sentimental Couples Photoshoot in Michigan

Want to make your session extra sentimental? Recreate a moment from your love story! Whether it’s returning to the place where you got engaged, revisiting the spot where you first said “I love you,” or flipping through old photos together, these moments will naturally bring out raw, heartfelt emotions.

5. Consider a Documentary Style Couples Photographer

You don’t need an elaborate, fairy-tale romance to create beautiful, meaningful photos. There’s art in the everyday moments. Bring me into your real life—play a board game at home, take a walk around your neighborhood, grab coffee from your go-to Sunday morning spot, or even make a grocery store run. The simple moments are often the most special, and capturing them will make you appreciate their beauty even more.

6. Incorporate Your Favorite Hobbies for Fun Couple Photo Shoots

What do you love to do together? Do you enjoy riding bikes around your neighborhood? Flying kites at the park by your home? You could also consider hiking, cooking, or playing video games. Regardless of what your thing is,  incorporating your shared hobbies makes your session feel more personal and fun. You don’t have to plan anything extravagant—just pick something you genuinely enjoy. When you’re doing something you love, your connection will shine through effortlessly in the photos.  Think of me as a fly on the wall, capturing those little moments with your person.

7. Planning the Perfect Couples Photoshoot Outfits

Outfits like location can make or break a session! Because of that, my approach to wardrobe is similar to my advice on choosing a location. Instead of focusing on what the internet tells you your session should be, make it yours! Wear your favorite sweater and the jeans that fit just right. You don’t have to go out and buy a new wardrobe or wear the white dress everyone else does! Your personality matters, so wear what you love and what you are comfortable in! Another thing to add: if neutrals aren’t you, then don’t pick them! I actually encourage colors and wholeheartedly believe that you should show off your individual styles.

Couples + Engagement Photographers West Michigan

Hey, I’m Anika! If you’re looking for couples or engagement photos that tell your unique story, you’re in the right place. I specialize in capturing love stories in Grand Rapids and West Michigan, however you and your someone enjoy spending time together. Whether it’s sharing a slice at your favorite restaurant, competing in a game of pool, or strolling your local park, I’m here for it. 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 photography packages, and contact me here to make some magic happen!