If you’ve been dreaming of effortless engagement photos that feel natural, unposed, and totally you—this guide is for you. Whether you’re excited or a little camera-shy (or both), most couples haven’t had professional photos taken together before. And that’s okay.

The good news? You don’t need to know how to pose or fake anything for the camera. My approach is about guiding you into movement, real connection, and moments that feel like you. No stiff smiles. No awkward prom hands. Just honest storytelling with an editorial edge.

Here’s how to prep, feel confident, and walk away with effortless engagement photos you’ll actually love.

1. Be Yourselves in your Engagement Photos

Let’s get one thing out of the way: you don’t need to show up as a polished, social media-ready version of yourselves. The most meaningful images happen when you’re relaxed, connected, and truly present with each other. Whether you’re loud and goofy or soft and quiet, your dynamic sets the tone—and that’s exactly what I want to photograph.

DON’T HOLD BACK. I mean it. Show up fully. Embrace every quirky, sweet, weird, quiet, or chaotic part of your connection. Don’t try to act how you think you should—just be you. Some of the most powerful, intimate moments happen in the “outtakes,” and I want all of them.

2. Share the Real Stuff for Effortless Images

I can only capture what you let me see. If you want photos that feel like you—like, really you—it starts with being open. Real connection makes for real photos. That means showing up with honesty, openness, and a willingness to be seen—not just in the big, joyful moments, but in the quiet, tender ones too. The little glances, the deep breaths, the unfiltered laughter—that’s where the magic lives.

So don’t hold back. Let the weird, soft, silly, vulnerable parts in. That’s where the good stuff lives—and that’s the story I want to tell.

3. Wear What Makes You Feel Good

Your outfit matters—but not for the reason you think. It’s not about impressing anyone. It’s about feeling confident, comfortable, and true to yourself.

DRESS LIKE YOURSELF. Whether that’s ripped jeans and boots, a vintage tee, a flowy dress, or something a little bold—go for what feels right. Movement, texture, and personality always photograph beautifully. If you wouldn’t wear it on a date night, skip it for your session.

Need more tips on what to wear for your engagement photos? This other post is a must-read.

 

4. Choose a Location That Reflects You

Location sets the tone—but more than that, it sets the mood. Whether we’re wandering around the West Loop, chasing golden light in Jackson Park, tucked into your apartment, or escaping to the lake, your environment should feel like an extension of you.

PICK A PLACE THAT FEELS RIGHT. It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about choosing somewhere you feel comfortable and inspired. Whether it’s your favorite dive bar or your own backyard, it should feel right. That’s what gives us space for those effortless engagement photos you’re dreaming of.

Need some Chicago indoor photo location inspo? Look no further – click here.

5. Make It a Day, Not a To-Do

You’re not going to feel like your best, most connected selves if you’ve been rushing around all day running errands. The goal is to show up relaxed and excited—not just to check off another wedding task.

MAKE IT AN ALL-DAY THING. Take the day slow. Grab coffee. Go for a walk. Hang out, unplug, be together. When you show up feeling grounded in each other, the photos will reflect it.

6. Move, Don’t Pose

You don’t need to know what to do with your hands (or your face). I’ll guide you into movement and interaction that feels natural—walking, leaning, brushing hands, laughing mid-spin. Feel free to move, shift, sway, or even dance a little. Do what comes naturally.

Movement brings comfort. Comfort brings connection. And connection brings photos that actually feel like you.

This is where effortless engagement photos really begin to take shape—when you stop posing and start just being.

7. Be in the Moment, Not in Your Head

You’re not here to perform. You’re here to connect. Forget about what you think it’s supposed to look like, and let yourself sink into the moment with your partner. The way they make you laugh, the way you hold each other, the way you feel when no one’s watching—that’s what I want to capture.

FORGET THE SHOOT—FOCUS ON THE MOMENT. You’re not here for me. I’m here for you. You don’t need to focus on the camera. Focus on each other. I’ll guide you through it gently, but the more present you are, the more your photos will reflect something real. This isn’t about picture-perfect portraits—it’s about documenting this season of your life, your relationship, and the way you move through the world together. Let it feel like an experience, not a photoshoot.

8. Embrace the Unexpected

Things might not go “perfectly.” It might be windy. You might trip, your dress might get a little dirty, your hair might do its own thing.

EMBRACE IT ALL. The wind, the dirt, the messy hair, the crooked collar—it’s all part of your story. Don’t stress about it. Don’t stop to fix every strand of hair. Let’s keep it honest and free-flowing. Some of the most iconic moments come from the beautifully imperfect. When you stop adjusting and just move through the moment. That’s when it gets real—and really good.

And if it rains? We’re dancing in it.

9. Pack Light + Stay Flexible

Extra bags, props, or outfit changes? Not necessary. Too much “stuff” can get in the way of staying present and mobile. Extra stuff weighs you down—literally and creatively. If you’re lugging around a bag or props that don’t feel meaningful, they’ll get in the way of staying present.

LEAVE THE EXTRA STUFF AT HOME. Keep your hands free and your energy light. That way, we can move freely, follow the moment, and grab those spontaneous in-between shots that define effortless engagement photos.

10. Let Your Hands Say Something

Hands tell stories. Whether they’re laced together, resting on a shoulder, brushing a cheek, or wrapped in a jacket—those subtle, physical cues carry so much intimacy. Don’t overthink what they’re doing. Just let them move naturally, stay connected, and let them speak.

The quiet gestures—the squeeze, the reach, the pull-in-close—those often say more than any pose ever could.

---

Final Thoughts on Effortless Engagement Photos

The secret to effortless engagement photos isn’t in perfect posing or a styled wardrobe. It’s in showing up with your full self, being present with your partner, and letting me capture the magic that’s already there.

Let go. Trust the process. Be in the moment. That’s where the story lives.

Looking for engagement session inspiration? Check out my portfolio here.

Ready to make it official? Reach out here to start planning your session. I’d love to tell your story, just as you are.