When I met up with Paige and Shawn for their engagement session, I could tell right away—this was going to be fun. Not because we had some grand plan or perfect weather or a big vision board. It was just them being them. And honestly, that’s what makes it magic.
We started out at The Helix in Altoona. Such a cool, modern space with cozy corners and great light. They grabbed a drink, relaxed into the moment, and just… hung out. It felt more like a date night than a photo shoot, and that’s kind of the point. I barely had to direct them—just a little guidance here and there—and the rest was all natural connection.
After that, we wandered over to River Prairie, which is always a favorite spot. The lights started to come on overhead, and it felt so dreamy. They twirled, kissed, laughed, and just soaked it all in. No stiff poses, no pressure to “perform,” just real moments between two people who are crazy about each other.
Here’s what I wish more couples knew—your engagement session doesn’t have to feel like a photo shoot. You don’t have to know what to do with your hands or worry about being awkward. You just have to show up and be with your person. That’s it.
Let it be fun. Let it be messy and silly and sweet. It’s not about the perfect pose—it’s about the way you smile when they whisper something goofy in your ear. It’s about the way your shoulders relax when you’re wrapped up in their arms. Those are the things worth remembering.
This session with Paige and Shawn was such a reminder of that. It didn’t feel forced. It felt like them. And that’s what I hope for all my couples—to feel at ease, to have fun, and to walk away thinking, “That was actually really great.”
Because it should be.
Be the first to comment