Creating Art From Real Stories
They say, “A picture is worth a thousand words,” but images have the potential to speak beyond words. Some photos tell stories of generations, some speak to a specific moment in time, and some create stories out of themselves. Being the one to capture this is an extreme blessing, and I believe it is so important and exciting to be able to take your images from capturing a moment to creating and preserving many moments all at once. In this blog, I’ll tell you exactly how I tell stories, specifically with couples, and you’ll learn how to elevate your craft.
Get To Know Your People
Getting to know the people you will photograph is essential to this concept. Learning more about my couples is my first step in storytelling. I take the time to hear their story - how they met, what they like to do together, defining moments in their relationship, and the little quirks that make their relationship unique and art in its own way. This may look like a pre-session form after they book, hopping on a phone call with them, or grabbing a coffee to hear and see it in person. I prefer to hop on a call or meet with them in person in order to see how they interact with each other. If you aren’t able to do that or are an introvert (because sometimes same), take notice when you first arrive to your shoot of their interactions and bounce off of that! Keep in mind that they might be nervous so they might not be fully themselves yet. We will get there! This will make their photos feel more personal and make it more fun for you!
During The Shoot
The first thing I like to do at any shoot is get the awkward, posed photos out of the way. Ya know, the ones where they are just standing there looking at your with their arms around each other. I tell my couples these are the “photos for grandma’s fridge". This is when people are the most uncomfortable and although it sounds backward to then start with these photos, it is what people expect and are used to. Then we get into the good stuff. I incorporate a lot of movement into my shoots; this way, you get the couple interacting with each other. Start small, like with walking. This way, they are warming up to how to act in front of a camera and you can then bounce off of how they are doing with this. If they’re vibing, then really get into the bigger movements, if not, keep with the smaller movements.
Post Shoot
The editing process can really take your photos to the next level. Elevating my photos through storytelling is an intentional process where I refine and enhance the images to evoke emotion and tell a deeper story. My editing style is inspired by the natural colors of the world but with thoughtful enhancements to create a warm, creamy, and slightly darkened tone. This balance makes the photos feel grounded and timeless while still having a polished, art like quality.
I focus on enhancing warmth to create a sense of intimacy, and the creamy undertones soften harsh elements, making the images feel inviting and natural. Slight darkening adds depth and dimension, subtly drawing in the scene without overwhelming them. I will crop and rotate certain images to build this narrative further. By focusing on specific elements or cropping something outside of the normal frame, like a shared glance, placing the subjects in a corner, or a delicate detail, I find different things to highlight based on my couple, bringing emphasis to emotions or stories that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Every adjustment is made with the intention of storytelling. These edits allow the photo to go beyond simply documenting a moment—it transforms into a piece of art that feels personal, emotional, and alive. This attention to detail ensures my images are both authentic and artistic, drawing people into the story behind the photo.
