This couple. This location. This vibe. I am officially obsessed. Ellie and Maximillian’s engagement shoot at Seattle’s beautiful Green Lake Park was everything I adore about photography—joyful, spontaneous, and full of life.

From the moment we first chatted, I knew this session needed to reflect their fun-loving personalities and carefree energy. My goal wasn’t just to document their engagement, but to capture their unique spark—those giggles, playful nudges, and tender exchanges that make them, well, them.

Embracing the Spirit of Playfulness

We decided to toss aside traditional poses and embrace the magic of candid moments instead. Ellie and Maximillian dove right into the playful theme—literally! We kicked off our session with a spontaneous game of tag beneath the pink cherry blossom trees. The laughter was contagious, setting the perfect mood for the afternoon.

Watching the two of them chase each other around the park transported us all to simpler times. It felt like they connected right back to their inner child—carefree, playful, and unguarded. This sense of ease makes for the most authentic images.

Tip: Create Genuine Interaction

If you want naturally joyful photographs (without awkward stiffness), encourage your couple to interact genuinely. Playing a game, sharing an inside joke, or even recounting favorite memories helps loosen everyone up. Anything that gets them genuinely laughing or interacting is a win!

Capturing the Little Moments

As we wandered around Green Lake, Maximillian spontaneously picked some wildflowers for Ellie. Her smile at that simple gesture was worth a thousand poses. These little, unplanned moments often turn into the most memorable photographs. My favorite images from the session came from these spontaneous gestures of affection and surprise, rather than posed shots.

Tip: Keep Your Camera Ready

When photographing couples, always keep your camera ready—even during breaks or when walking between locations. You never know when the best moments will unfold. Being ready helps you capture those fleeting, genuine interactions that might otherwise be missed.

Behind-the-Scenes Fun

One of my favorite parts of this session? Ellie taking over as photographer for a few frames. We set up a little “mini shoot” within our shoot, where Ellie directed Maximillian through poses under the cherry tree, and I captured the whole scene like a fly on the wall. It was a fun, playful twist and let their chemistry shine.

Ellie’s creative instructions, Maximillian’s willingness to play along, and their contagious laughter made these photos particularly special. Sometimes, flipping the script and letting your couple step into your shoes can create truly unique, memorable shots.

Tip: Flip the Script

Want creative, relaxed photos? Let your clients direct each other. Give one partner a camera—or pretend photographer status—and let them have fun posing the other. It results in loads of laughter and genuine smiles.

If you’re the couple reading this, consider suggesting a fun role-playing activity like this to your photographer.

Scenic Moments & Surprise Guests

Green Lake Park itself really delivered. Seattle’s favorite spot provided us with stunning backdrops—from blooming cherry blossoms to peaceful lake views. And we even had a few surprise guests: flocks of geese wandering through the background, providing the perfect quirky detail to elevate our images.

Tip: Embrace Unexpected Elements

Instead of worrying about unexpected surprises (like geese photobombing), embrace them! These elements add character and help tell the story of your session. They remind everyone that life—and love—is beautifully imperfect.

Wrapping Up the Session

As we wrapped up our afternoon beneath the cherry blossom canopy, I reflected on how quickly our time flew by. Ellie and Maximillian embraced every idea I threw their way, bringing a playful spirit and warmth into every shot. The images perfectly captured not just their love, but their vibrant personalities and easy connection.

Sessions like this remind me why I fell in love with photography in the first place. Nothing compares to the joy of capturing genuine moments of connection, laughter, and love.

Tip: Let Couples Be Themselves

Above all, remember to let your couples be themselves. Guide gently, but give them space. Allowing them the freedom to express their personalities naturally results in authentic, spontaneous images they’ll cherish forever.

Cheers to Ellie and Maximillian!

Ellie and Maximillian, thank you both so much for letting me share this playful afternoon with you. Your energy, laughter, and openness were a joy to photograph. I hope these images always remind you of this bright chapter in your lives—and how effortlessly you bring out the best in each other.

Here’s to many more playful, carefree adventures together!