Kaitlyn and Grant’s Engagement Session, Minneopa State Park
I literally am so excited to be sharing this session. Ever since I first got on a call about their wedding, I knew I was going to love working with Kaitlyn and Grant. They are so easygoing and fun and you can completely feel how in love with each other they are. Like I am so excited to have clients that are this perfect for each other! We decided to explore Minneopa State Park in Mankato, Minnesota because Mankato is a special area for Grant and when I suggested it to them they got so excited! We explored the park and found some stunning spots all within a short walking distance. They had a gorgeous day, with such gorgeous lighting, honestly, everything was so perfect (minus the Minneopa Falls was a little dry).
When they first got there one of the first things they said is that they were awkward in front of the camera and always looked stiff. Well after working with them, I was like what are you talking about?! You’re naturals?! But one thing that some people may not know is that you do not need to know how to pose for your session. I will pose you the entire time. So there is nothing to worry about! I have a variety of poses and prompts in my back pocket that will make you look your best. Lots of time I use a variety of prompts and poses to create movement and real moments and laughs during your session! From surprise hug attacks to wild piggyback rides and whispering goofy things in your partner’s ear. I use it all to make sure I get the truest version of you guys and your relationship with each out and capturing genuine emotions and expressions are so important to me. I am not a fan and dead smiles and awkward glances. So making sure you are comfortable in front of the camera, interacting with each other, and just being genuine is always my top 3 goals of every couple’s session! My infamous phrase is “it feels weird but I promise it looks great” so yes, some poses and prompts might feel ridiculous but honestly that’s the point, they are to get you to laugh and have fun with it. Often times the prompt really isn’t about the prompt it’s about that reaction to the prompt or after the prompt- so there you go that’s honestly the big secret to looking natural in your images- have fun! Relax and laugh and just simply have fun. From experience- the best images are always the ones where you are laughing, having fun, and not worrying that there is a camera pointing at you. I know it’s easier said than done but just try your hardest to have fun, if that means focusing on teasing your partner or being goofy with them- then do it! We only need a couple with you smiling at the camera for grandmas fridge so don’t worry if you're just trying to get your partner to laugh! I promise I won’t be mad!
Kaitlyn and Grant literally were so good at making each other smile and laugh and have fun, truly it was such a blessing getting to work with them and explore Minneopa State Park! I cannot wait for their special day next spring!
(also funny side note: Minneopa State Park is split into two and I went to the wrong side and got lost, so that it why I go everwhere early because I get lost a lot haha)
