If you’ve never had your photos taken professionally as a couple, the idea of an engagement session can feel intimidating. But with years (and years) of experience as a wedding photographer, I can tell you that it can be a fun and connective experience for you as a couple. Here are some Michigan engagement photos tips to help you lean into the emotions during your session.

Michigan Engagement Photo Tips

Choosing your wardrobe

As a documentary photographer, I love to capture couples as they are. That’s why I recommend choosing a wardrobe that is comfortable and true to you. Wear something you know you’ll love and feel most natural in, whether that’s your go-to date night outfit or your favorite cardigan and jeans.

Whether you choose to dress it up or keep it casual, here are some engagement photo outfit tips:

Dress for the location – if you’re at the beach, leave the heels at home. Wear clothes that you can walk and play in with your partner.
Solid colors photograph best! But if you love prints, try to keep it simple.
Layers are a great way to elevate any outfit (and are necessary for Michigan’s weather!).
Start with neutral colors, and add accents with your accessories.
Coordinate colors and styles to keep your photos feeling cohesive, but not overly staged.

Best places to take pictures in Michigan

One of the most important considerations for your engagement photos will be the location. To keep your photos authentic to you as a couple, we recommend choosing a place that excites both of you. This can be a frequent date spot or a place that holds memories for you as a couple.

One of the best parts of Northern Michigan is the beaches. If you love life by the water, we love to recommend locations like Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore or Glen Haven Beach. But if you prefer a charming local feel, downtown Traverse City has a great atmosphere.

Michigan Engagement Photos

Engagement photos at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Engagement photos at Glen Haven Beach

Engagement photos in Traverse City

The most important thing: Be yourselves

I love documentary photography for its ability to capture the most genuine moments between people. Throughout your session, I’ll encourage you to be yourselves, giving occasional direction that brings out the most real versions of you. Talk, laugh, joke, play, and interact with each other exactly in the way you do. It’s the real moments that lead to the images you’ll cherish forever.

To capture the most authentic versions of yourself, get in touch. As a Northern Michigan wedding photographer, my work is rooted in truth rather than perfection.

Michigan Engagement Photo Tips