If the idea of standing stiffly and smiling at the camera feels unnatural, you’re in the right place. Because you might just be gravitating towards documentary style posing.
What is that?
Let’s talk about it.
When I photograph couples, my goal isn’t to direct you into perfect poses. Gone are the days of stiff, JCPenney style photography. My goal, as an artist, is to create space for you to be together.
Because the best photos don’t come from instruction, they come from connection. Thus… documentary style posing.
Sarah and Brandon’s engagement session at Washington University in St. Louis was the perfect example of this. As the evening light softened over the historic arches and brick pathways, we let the moments unfold naturally. Instead of rigid poses, I guided them through subtle movements. I told them exactly what kind of movements would photograph well, and how to make sure to stay connected. And they ran with it. Think: a hand brushing along the other’s arm, a quiet walk hand in hand, a twirl under the soft glow of golden light. Pure magic.
Days like this make me fall in love with being a St. Louis Wedding Photographer all over again.
Can we have a moment for Sarah? Vision of a bride that she was! She wore a silky white halter dress with a bow-tied back that moved beautifully as she walked. The simplicity of her look felt effortless. Then, paired with delicate gold jewelry and soft waves pulled into a ponytail, it was perfect. Brandon kept things classic in a black suit and white shirt. His look complementing hers perfectly without feeling too formal. Together, they looked right at home in the timeless architecture and gentle tones of campus. Styling is another thing I help my couples with. Considering the location, environment and your own personal style.
That’s what I love about this approach with documentary style posing. There’s no pressure to perform. Instead, we focus on creating a calm, comfortable space where you can simply enjoy being together. Sure, I might give you a prompt or direction (I promise I’m not a silent weirdo!) But my process blends storytelling with just enough direction to help you feel confident and at ease.
Every subtle gesture is telling your story. And my expertise is knowing exactly when to click the shutter (and what camera settings to use to capture the emotion in the air). Whether that’s a laugh between prompts, a quiet moment between poses… it all tells a story. These are the moments that feel the most you.
I edit my sessions in a film-inspired style too.
Softening colors while preserving natural tones and light. The result is imagery that feels nostalgic and cinematic, yet true to life. Like looking back on a favorite memory rather than a photoshoot.
When Sarah and Brandon open up these photos years from now, I want them to remember more than how they looked. I want them to feel what this season of life felt like. To maybe show their kids one day. Or just sit in nostalgia together. The excitement, the tenderness, the quiet joy of being fully present with each other.
If you’ve been dreaming of engagement photos that feel real, warm, and completely you, this is exactly what documentary-style posing is all about. No stiff smiles. No forced moments. Just honest connection, captured beautifully and naturally. If this is your vibe, reach out – let’s chat.
