Tips for Fun, Natural, and Stunning Photos

Are you planning a couple session with your partner? Whether it’s to celebrate an anniversary, an engagement, or just because you want some stunning photos together, I’m here to make sure you feel totally prepared (and excited!) for the experience. As a Chilliwack photographer specializing in capturing authentic, love-filled moments, I know that a little preparation goes a long way in making your session feel relaxed, fun, and uniquely you.

Here’s everything you need to know to get ready for your session, from choosing outfits to shaking off any pre-photo nerves!

1. What to Wear: Dress for the Location (and Yourselves!)

Choosing what to wear is one of the biggest questions couples have before their session. My advice? Pick outfits that make you feel good while also complementing the location. Here’s how:

📍 If we’re shooting in the forest or mountains: Earthy tones like rust, olive green, burnt orange, and warm neutrals photograph beautifully. Avoid colors like neon and busy patterns—it can clash with the natural scenery.

🏖️ If we’re on the beach or by the river: Soft pastels, whites, neutrals, and flowy fabrics look stunning with water backgrounds. Barefoot vibes? Always a win.

🌆 If we’re in an urban setting: A mix of casual and dressy works great here—think denim with a stylish top, or a dress with sneakers for a cool, effortless feel.

🔥 General Tips:

• Coordinate, don’t match! Instead of identical outfits, go for complementary colors.
• Avoid large logos and super busy patterns (they can be distracting).
• Layers and textures (like knit sweaters, denim, or linen) add depth and movement to photos.
• Most importantly—wear something that feels like you! If you never wear a dress, don’t feel pressured to for your session. If you live in cozy flannels, rock them!

2. Choosing a Location That Feels Like You

The location of your couples session sets the whole vibe, so pick a place that feels like you. As a Fraser Valley photographer, I’m so lucky to have so many breathtaking locations so close to home. Here are a few favorites:

• For adventurous couples: Let’s hit up a waterfall, mountaintop, or forest trail. Some of my favs are Flood Falls in Hope, BC, Chilliwack Lake Rd Trails, and Chilliwack Community Forest.
• For laid-back nature lovers: A cozy lakeside or golden field at sunset is perfect.
• For city loving duos: Downtown streets, coffee shops, or hidden alleyways make for a stylish backdrop. District 1881 in Chilliwack makes for the most adorable city session.
• For homebodies: Yep, we can even do an in-home session! Think cozy snuggles on the couch, baking together, or dancing in the kitchen.

If you’re unsure, I’m happy to suggest locations based on the season and your vision!

3. What to Bring to Your Session

Aside from your adorable selves, here are some things that can enhance your photos:

✅ A cozy blanket (great for sitting shots or snuggling)
✅ Props that reflect your relationship (a guitar if one of you plays, books you love, a picnic setup, your dog—YES, bring your pup!)
✅ An extra layer (weather can be unpredictable in the Fraser Valley, and jackets, cardigans, or scarves can add variety)
✅ Touch-up essentials (lip balm, hairbrush, bobby pins, hair accessories to switch it up, etc)
✅ Water & snacks (if we’re going for a shoot in the woods it’s always smart to bring a little pick me up)

4. How to Ease the Nerves

If you’re feeling nervous about being in front of the camera—totally normal! Here’s how to shake off those jitters:

• Think of it as a fun date! Focus on your partner, laugh, play, and interact naturally. The best photos come from genuine moments.
• Move! I’ll guide you through natural poses, but movement always helps—walking, twirling, piggyback rides, forehead kisses, you name it.
• Trust me! My job is to make you feel comfortable and capture your connection authentically. You don’t have to be “good” at posing—I’ll take care of that part.
• Take a deep breath and relax. If you make the goal to have fun with your partner, your photos will naturally turn out genuine and beautiful.

5. How to Make the Session Feel Personal and Fun

Want your photos to feel like you? Here’s how to make your session extra special:

• Choose a meaningful location. If you had your first date at a coffee shop, let’s go there! If you always hike a certain trail together, let’s capture that!
• Bring personal touches. Matching tattoos, inside jokes, or even a little note to read during the session can add so much personality.
• Be playful. I will suggest prompts like Piggyback rides, running through a field, whispering something funny in their ear— go with the flow and trust these silly prompts – these moments create the best candid shots.

Your couples session is all about capturing you two—your love, your quirks, your connection. Whether we’re exploring a stunning Fraser Valley backdrop, cozying up at home, or running barefoot on the beach, I’m here to make sure it’s an easy, fun, and unforgettable experience.

So, take a deep breath, get excited, and let’s create something magical together. Ready to book your session? Let’s chat! ✨