When doing “engagement photos” I always remind couples that the ultimate goal is to be comfortable, be yourself and to create an experience that reflects what’s important in your life. Kat & Justin didn’t have too much of a hard time figuring those things out. They are Toronto kids through and through so naturally exploring the nooks and hidden corners of their Old Forest Hill neighbourhood was a no brainer. As avid music fans and musicians themselves they wanted to make sure they got some photos of themselves in their favourite corner of their apartment, surrounded by their massive record collection, record player and instruments, it made for the ultimate hangout spot for us to spend some time together and jam before venturing out into one of the many hidden ravines that Toronto has to offer. Although the majority of this engagement shoot was done in-home it didn’t stop these two from taking the time to take a walk and explore the extended boundaries of what they call home.
I’ll admit there’s something really special about spending time with a couple in their home. There’s a sort of familiar intimacy that comes along with seeing people in their most comfortable environment, creating some unique moments that will always remain memorable when looking back at the photos. Something I started doing about 2 years ago during in-home sessions was turning over the camera to the couple, letting them push the button to take the photo instead of me. In these instances I become more of a creative director than photographer and what this allows to happen is a unique perspective is created, one that can’t be replicated with me at the helm of the camera. I was excited to present this idea to Justin & Kat because they themselves are highly creative individuals who appreciate meaningful art and the many layers involved in that process. Justin is also a super creative and talented film maker so I knew handing over the camera to him would not only lead to beautiful photographs, but it would also engulf him in the entire experience in a completely different way. When scrolling through the blog post you’ll be able to quickly identify which images were taken by Justin & Kat, they immediately jump out to you as the sort of images you have printed and kept in a shoebox underneath your bed. The level of genuine intimacy in those images is something I absolutely love and something I hope that they will appreciate when looking back on these images in a decade or two.
Naturally this entire session was shot on 35mm and medium format film, something that has become an entire premise for my workflow as a wedding photographer. I particularly feel that analog film really enhanced the dreamlike aesthetic of the experience, bringing a tangible feeling to the photos that mimic our blurry memories we fondly hold onto as we grow older.
If you’re considering a couples session or engagement photos for yourself I hope Justin & Kat’s experience serves as a reminder that these things don’t need to be complex or feel stuffy. Be yourself, create an experience that revolves around environments and places that mean something to you both and the results will speak for themselves. For these two it was simple; some good music, a couple of drinks, some rolls of film and enjoying the blue hour sunset hand in hand.
Song of the day - Snow Angel - Ruby Haunt
- 3B
