January 11, 2025
Engagement photos are a beautiful way to celebrate your love story, but what if you want something different? Something that truly feels like you? As a documentary photographer, I specialize in nontraditional engagement sessions that focus on authentic, unscripted moments. These aren’t just photos—they’re snapshots of your unique connection and the life you’ve built together.
Nontraditional engagement photography is all about moving away from stiff poses and perfect backdrops. Instead, it’s about embracing the beautifully imperfect, capturing the little quirks and genuine moments that make your relationship one of a kind. It’s about telling your story in a way that feels real. One of my favorite ways to do that is to choose a location that holds significance for you and your partner. These are some sessions with previous clients of mine who opted for just that.
Justice and Everett chose the intimate ambiance of The Avenue Steakhouse in Grandview for their engagement photos, making their session truly unforgettable. This romantic setting, with its warm lighting, classic decor, and cozy atmosphere, perfectly captured their love story. The Avenue wasn’t just a backdrop; it was where they celebrated countless milestones together, making it deeply personal. As they toasted with their favorite drinks and shared laughter over a quiet dinner, their connection radiated, creating heartfelt, meaningful images. For Justice and Everett, The Avenue symbolized their journey as a couple, and these photos were a testament to their shared history and future.
Sydney and Justin chose Used Kids Records, just around the corner from their home, as the setting for their engagement photos, making their session uniquely personal. The vibrant, eclectic atmosphere of the store reflected their shared love for music and their fun, laid-back personalities. Capturing their smiles and sweet moments amidst rows of records made the session feel like a true reflection of their story. For Sydney and Justin, these photos weren’t just about a milestone—they were about celebrating the rhythm of their everyday lives together.
Daniel and Gina’s engagement photos at Alum Creek Park Beach were anything but traditional, showcasing their playful, adventurous spirit. Instead of formal outfits, they embraced the fun of the moment by donning swimsuits and wading into the water. With the golden glow of the setting sun reflecting on the waves, their laughter and splashes created vibrant, candid images that perfectly captured their dynamic connection. Opting for this less conventional approach turned their session into a joyful experience, celebrating their love for the outdoors and each other in a way that felt entirely true to who they are.
Will and Elias took their engagement session to new heights—literally—by choosing the rooftop of a Columbus parking garage as their backdrop. With the city skyline stretching behind them, the urban setting brought a modern, edgy vibe to their photos. The contrast of their intimate connection against the vast cityscape created a striking, cinematic feel that was as unique as their love story. The session felt personal and adventurous, reflecting their shared appreciation for Columbus and the life they’re building together. As the sun set and city lights began to twinkle, their shoot turned into a celebration of both their relationship and the vibrant city they call home.
Engagement photos should feel like you. If you’re ready to ditch the poses and embrace a session that tells your real love story, let’s connect! Together, we’ll create a collection of images that reflect your relationship in the most honest and beautiful way.