Don’t Worry, You Don’t Need to Be a Model: Why Every Couple Rocks Their Engagement Shoot

Picture this: You’re standing in the middle of a gorgeous field (or maybe your favorite coffee shop), holding hands with your partner, and all you can think is, “What do I do with my face?” Sound familiar? If you’re feeling nervous about your engagement shoot, let me tell you a secret: you don’t need to be a model to absolutely crush it!

The best photos don’t come from stiff poses or perfectly choreographed moments. Nope. They come from belly laughs, whispered secrets, and the way you naturally light up around your favorite person. Let’s break it down and turn those camera jitters into confidence.

1. The Magic of Being YOU

First off, let’s ditch the idea that you need to look like you just walked off the cover of Vogue. Your engagement shoot isn’t about being picture-perfect; it’s about capturing the quirks, love, and connection that make your relationship one of a kind.

Some of my favorite shots have come from couples just being themselves. Like that time one couple busted out their go-to dance moves in the middle of a hiking trail. (Spoiler: They were TERRIBLE dancers… and it was AMAZING!)

Your shoot is about celebrating your story—awkward laughs and all.

2. Forget Posing; Think Playing

If the thought of posing sounds about as fun as waiting in line at the DMV, good news: You don’t have to pose! Think of your shoot as a fun date with a sidekick (me!) capturing all the goodness.

Run through a meadow, sneak a kiss when you think I’m not looking, or recreate that ridiculous inside joke that only the two of you understand. When you’re focused on each other, the nerves fade, and that’s when the magic happens.

3. Props to the Props

Not sure what to do with your hands? Props are your new best friend! Bring along a picnic blanket, your favorite mugs, or even your dog (please bring your dog; I’ll love you forever). Props give you something to interact with and help tell your story. Plus, who doesn’t love a pup cameo.

4. Wardrobe Woes? I Got You

One of the top questions I get is, “What should we wear?” Here’s the deal: Wear what makes you feel good. If you’re comfy and confident, it will shine through in your photos. Flowing dresses, cozy sweaters, jeans that actually fit—go for it! Bonus points for coordinating without being matchy-matchy. Think complementary colors, not twin day at camp.

5. The Power of the Wild

There’s something about being outside that brings out the best in people. Maybe it’s the fresh air or the way the sunlight catches your smiles just right. Whether it’s a cliffside at sunset or a quiet park where you had your first date, nature has a way of making everyone feel at ease. (And don’t worry, I’ll handle the whole where should we go? question!)

6. Awkward Moments = GOLD

Here’s the truth: Everyone feels a little awkward at first. But guess what? Those moments are pure gold! That awkward laugh when you’re trying to figure out where to put your arm? Adorable. The way you accidentally bump noses during a kiss? Swoon-worthy. Trust me, those unscripted moments often turn into the most memorable photos.

7. Trust the Process (And Me!)

This isn’t my first rodeo, y’all. I’ve spent years helping couples go from “What do we do?” to “Wow, we look amazing!” All you have to do is show up with your person and an open mind. I’ll guide you every step of the way, from where to stand to how to relax into those natural moments.

Let’s Create Some Photo Magic

At the end of the day, your engagement shoot is about YOU: your love, your laughter, your unique story. So, leave the nerves at home, trust the process, and let’s create some photo magic that’ll make you say, “Wow, we should totally frame this.”

Remember, you don’t need to be a model. You just need to be you. And that, my friends, is more than enough.

Ready to turn your love story into a work of art? Let’s do this!

-Becks