Photographers are usually the ones capturing moments, but what happens when the camera lens is turned on them? I recently had the unique experience of getting couples photos taken for me and my boyfriend, Jimmy, and it really helped me gain perspective of what it’s like to be on the other side of the lens.

So I thought I’d share how I felt about the experience and the lessons I learned on the way!

Having a Connection with Your Photographer is HUGE

The first thing that became clear to me straight away is that having a connection with your photographer is everything! I’ve always put a lot of effort into bonding with my clients before their sessions because I genuinely believe it makes the difference between good photos and great photos.  

It’s not only about finding the best light or choosing the perfect backdrops. It’s about creating a safe space, where my clients can be themselves and showcase their love for one another. I want everyone I work with to feel like they are hanging out with their best friend, who just happens to have a camera. 😉

Our photographer, Harley, made us feel comfortable and at ease from the get-go, allowing us to truly be ourselves! And it really showed in our photos, and it really showed how important that connection is! It also helps that Harley is already one of my best friends.

We’re IN LOVE with Our Couples Photos

Like many clients, my boyfriend wasn’t exactly thrilled about having his photos taken at first. But once we received our photos, we literally couldn’t take our eyes off them. 

The emotion Harley captured wasn’t just about how we looked, it was about who we are as a couple! Those badass, artsy shots didn’t just make us look cool, they brought us closer together as we shared a sense of pride because “OMG, we really did that! And it looks like SO US!”

The Power of Trust

As a PA wedding and engagement photographer myself, trust is something I talk about quite a lot, but experiencing it from the client’s perspective brought new depth to this word. 

As a self-proclaimed control freak, especially when it comes to photography, handing over the reins to someone else was daunting. Yet, it was also an opportunity to trust in Harley’s vision and creative instincts. This experience taught me the power of surrendering control and embracing the process – a lesson I hope to bring to my work moving forward!

Some of my Favorite Parts About Getting Couples Photos

It was so much fun to pick out our couples session outfits! We also explored a field of my favorite flowers, a spot I had wanted to visit for SO LONG, which made the experience even more special. 

Another wonderful aspect of the session was that this field was a bucket-list couples session location for Harley, and as a photographer too, I know how awesome it feels to get a session in a place you’ve been dying to shoot at!

Katarina Celine Photography | PA Wedding and Engagement Photographer

So, overall, getting our couples photos taken was such a valuable experience for us as a couple and me as a professional photographer too. 

The client experience has always been the keystone of my business, but now, it has taken an even deeper meaning. Putting myself in my clients’ shoes has given me great insight into how it feels to be in front of the camera. 

So, the next time you’re feeling nervous about an upcoming photoshoot, remember – your photographer is your ally, friend, and hype-person. They’re there to guide you through the process, help you relax, and let your true self shine through.

Best photos aren’t just about what you look like, but they’re about who YOU are. And there’s nothing more beautiful than that!

Ready to book your couple, engagement, or wedding photos? I’d love to hear from you!

All photos were taken by Photodelphia LLC!!