As a photographer, I have been fortunate enough to capture countless love stories through my lens. One of my favorite parts of the journey is the pre-wedding engagement session. This is a special time for you as a couple, and for me as your photographer, to get to know each other, and create some magical moments before the big day.
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Outfit Choices: What you wear for your engagement photos can greatly enhance the overall look and feel of the images. You want to feel confident and comfortable, but also photogenic. I recommend choosing outfits that reflect your personalities and style. Remember, these photos are about you two and your love story, so make sure your outfits reflect that. You can never go wrong with neutral colors and avoiding overly busy patterns. And don't forget to make sure your outfits complement each other without being overly matchy-matchy.
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Selecting Locations: The location of your engagement session can add a unique flavor to your photos. Consider places that are meaningful to you as a couple &ndash; where you first met, where he proposed, or maybe a place you love to visit together. Outdoor locations with natural light are always a great choice. Parks, the beach, or even a cityscape can provide a beautiful backdrop for your photos. However, don&rsquo;t be afraid to think outside the box. If you both love coffee, why not shoot in a quaint caf&eacute;?
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Posing Ideas: Posing for photos can be a bit daunting, but don't worry, I'm here to guide you through it. The key to great engagement photos is to look natural and show your love for each other. I always encourage my couples to interact with each other as they normally would. Hold hands, share a laugh, steal a kiss &ndash; these are the moments that capture the essence of your relationship. I might give you some guidance on where to stand or how to hold each other, but mostly I want you to be yourselves.
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Remember, this session is not just about beautiful photos, it&rsquo;s also about having fun and creating memories together. It's a chance for you both to relax, have fun, and enjoy each other's company in a beautiful setting. So, take a deep breath, keep an open mind, and let's create some magic together. I'm excited to be part of your journey and can't wait to capture your love story through my lens.
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Remember, this is your time to shine. So, embrace the moment, trust your photographer, and most importantly, have fun. After all, these photos will be cherished memories of your pre-wedding days that you will look back on for many years to come. I look forward to our session together and capturing your love in a way that you can cherish forever.

Your Guide to a Perfect Engagement Photo Session: Outfits, Locations, and Posing Ideas

As a long-time resident and passionate photographer in Grand Rapids, MI, I've had the privilege of capturing countless joyous moments at weddings around the city. Today, I'd like to share my top five favorite non-chain, non-hotel wedding venues in Grand Rapids, each with a unique charm and personality.
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First up is <a href="https://www.thecheneyplace.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Cheney Place</a>. This urban, chic venue is nestled in an old furniture factory, providing an industrial yet intimate backdrop for couples seeking something a little offbeat. The high ceilings, exposed brick walls, and large windows create an unforgettable ambiance that's particularly photographic in the late summer months. It's perfect for medium to large weddings, and the distinct urban vibe makes for some truly memorable photos.
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Next on my list is <a href="https://theharrisbuilding.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Harris Building</a>. This historic venue, once a furniture store in the 1890s, now serves as a beautiful, artistic space for couples who appreciate a blend of history and modern elegance. The original hardwood floors and large, open windows offer a timeless charm. I've found that spring weddings here are particularly beautiful with the natural light pouring in. It's best suited for couples planning a medium-sized wedding.
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The third venue that's captured my heart is the <a href="https://jbzoo.org/rentals-and-parties/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-invalid="true">Bissell Tree House</a>. If you're dreaming of an outdoor wedding surrounded by nature, this is the place. Perched atop a hill in John Ball Zoo, the treehouse offers panoramic views of the city and the lush, green woods. Fall is the best time to get married here, when the leaves provide a brilliant display of color. It's perfect for intimate weddings and elopements.
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<a href="https://www.thegoeicenter.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Goei Center</a>, known for its stunning architectural design and rustic charm, is another gem. As a former factory, it's been meticulously renovated to maintain its historical character while providing modern amenities. Its rustic elegance provides the perfect setting for a winter wedding when the snowfall adds a magical touch. It's ideal for large weddings with its spacious interior and high ceilings.
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Lastly, the <a href="https://www.downtownmarketgr.com/private-rentals" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Downtown Market Greenhouse</a> is a unique venue for those who appreciate an eco-friendly, modern aesthetic. This urban greenhouse offers a serene, botanical backdrop for your ceremony and reception. I've found that any time of year works well here, but there's something extra special about summer weddings. It's an ideal spot for medium-sized weddings, providing both indoor and outdoor spaces.
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These venues, brimming with character and charm, are just a taste of what Grand Rapids has to offer. Each one provides a unique setting and atmosphere, ensuring your wedding will be as unique as your love story. As your photographer, I'm honored to be part of your special day and committed to capturing every beautiful moment.

Unveiling Grand Rapids: Top 5 Unique Wedding Venues

When it comes to weddings, we all understand the importance of getting every detail right. And one of the most crucial aspects, which often gets overlooked, is the role of a professional photographer. I can't stress enough how essential it is to hire someone who not only knows their way around a camera but also has the ability to put people at ease during the photoshoot. Now, I know what you're thinking - why hire a professional when everyone has a camera on their phone? Well, let me tell you why. First, a professional wedding photographer brings years of experience and technical knowledge to the table. They know how to capture the best lighting, angle, and moment to create images that tell a story - your story. Remember when I got my first DSLR camera? I spent hours learning every function and practicing at every opportunity. That level of dedication and passion is what a professional photographer brings to your wedding. They don't just take photos; they create memories that you can cherish for a lifetime. But the value of a professional photographer doesn't just lie in the physical photos they deliver. It's also about the experience they provide during the shoot itself. A good photographer has a knack for making people feel comfortable and at ease, which is crucial in getting the best pictures. I've always believed that the true essence of a great photograph lies in its ability to capture genuine emotion. And to do that, you need to feel relaxed and natural in front of the camera. That's where a professional photographer comes in. They have the skill to make you forget about the camera and just be yourselves, resulting in beautiful, authentic photographs. Investing in a professional wedding photographer is more than just paying for a service. It's about investing in your memories, in your story. And I can tell you from personal experience, there's nothing more rewarding than being able to relive those precious moments through beautiful photographs. So, when planning your wedding, remember to prioritize hiring a professional photographer. Trust me, it's an investment you won't regret.

The Undeniable Importance of a Professional Wedding Photographer

I got to work with Jade and Kuro for their engagement photos in Chicago recently. Let me tell you: it was everything I dreamt it would be. Not only are these two incredible humans, but they are blast to be around. From the moment we met at <a id="" href="https://www.lpzoo.org/">Lincoln Park Zoo</a> in Chicago, where Jade works, I could tell that this session was going to be iconic.
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First, we started the session on a bridge with Jade's favorite skyline view of the city in the background. The lighting was chef's kiss. Beginning with some simple posing, I could see the excitement in Jade and Kuro's eyes and the obvious chemistry they have. In the first ten minutes, I encouraged them to be themselves. After this anxiety barrier is broken, the rest of the session starts to flow. My biggest advice? Just have a good time! I want to capture my couples' authentic selves in (mostly) every shot. Gotta make sure to get a little ~d r a m a~ in some of the photos, too.
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After we finished up on the bridge, Jade and Kuro requested to take photos of themselves covered in white bed sheets. It was a nod to their Halloween wedding in 2025. Obviously, I thought it was such a fun idea. It was a great time goofing around and capturing some truly unique and candid moments.
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<h2 id="" style="text-align: center;">I highly recommend a 2nd location, especially for engagement photos in Chicago!</h2>
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After our time at the zoo, we made our way over to North Avenue Beach. This is one of my personal favorite spots in the city for photos. ESPECIALLY when the city lights start to come on. During the planning process weeks before, I made sure to time it perfectly so that we could capture portraits during golden hour at the zoo, then finish off at the beach for blue hour into nightfall. The result was a stunning collection of images that captured the beauty of sweet Chicago. Some of my favorite photos from this session are definitely the ones at North Ave Beach once all the city lights came on.
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Throughout post-processing, I made sure to keep the editing true to life and timeless. When my couple looks at this gallery, I want them to feel the same joy they felt on the day of the shoot celebrating their engagement. A seamless client experience is key to creating lasting memories, and I strive for that with every session.
To wrap this up, my time with Jade and Kuro was nothing short of incredible. Next for them is their wedding in October, and it's one I am very excited for. After every session, I am reminded how truly grateful I am for the opportunity to do what I love. I can't wait to see where my next adventure takes me.
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Chicago Engagement Photos // Jade & Kuro

I arrived to photograph a wedding at <a id="" href="https://www.portaustinarea.com/members-services/the-glenn-royal">The Glenn Royal</a> in Port Austin, Michigan on a late September day. I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement in the air. Claudia and Trent chose a stunning venue for their wedding, and I knew it'll be a day to remember.
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The day started off with a heartfelt Catholic ceremony in a church. Their friends and family gathered to witness their commitment to each other. Claudia's wedding dress fit her like a glove, elevating her surroundings. Trent rocked an all black patterned suit (one of my favorites!). He looked like a total movie star. It all felt like a movie set of the most romantic film.
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After the ceremony, we headed outside for some outdoor portraits. The wind was really picking up, but this didn't phase the couple. This was the most challenging part of the day. I had to work quickly between gusts and be mindful of my composition to work with the wind. I'm so thankful they embraced the weather and pushed through. They helped create stunning images with Lake Michigan's waves crashing in the background. Seriously -- pure magic.
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<h2 id="" style="text-align: center;">My favorite part about this Port Austin wedding at the Glenn Royal?</h2>
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The reception. Hands down. Not only was it FUN to photograph the space, but Claudia and her dad surprised everyone with a choreographed father-daughter dance. I went around to capture everyone's JOY as the duo performed one of the most epic first dances I've ever witnessed.
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Once the speeches were heard and the cake was eaten, all that was left was to party. The couple initially opted out of "golden hour" photos since the sky was rather cloudy. With my experience, I knew that there was a chance we would get a truly vibrant sunset, so I kept an eye on the sky just in case. Sure enough, as the sun began dipping below the horizon, the sun casted glorious pink, orange, and purple hues across the sky. Knowing our time was limited, I'm hustling across the venue to snag my couple. Once we got outside, we spent a total of 7 minutes with these portraits. I can't explain how much I love them.
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Overall, this wedding is absolutely one of the books. I am honored to be a part of it. From the timeless, true-to-life editing to the seamless client experience, I'm grateful to have been able to capture such a special day in Michigan.
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As I packed up my camera gear at the end of the night, I couldn't help but feel grateful for a job that allows me to document moments like these. Claudia and Trent's wedding was a reminder of why I do what I do, and I can't wait to see where my next photography adventure takes me.
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<h1 id="" style="text-align: center;">Getting married at The Glenn Royal?</h1>
This venue is on my preferred vendors list and YOU GET A DISCOUNT.
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Wedding at The Glenn Royal in Port Austin

Lauryn and Reed opted to have her engagement session in the stunning Traverse City, Michigan. Imagine a canvas painted with the hues of the setting sun, a tapestry of golden light wrapping around a loving couple as they embrace amidst the rolling hills of a <a id="" href="https://www.chateauchantal.com/">vineyard</a>. This is what an engagement session in Northern Michigan can offer: a true-to-life masterpiece captured through the lens of a skilled photographer.
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As the golden hour cast its warm glow upon the vineyard, I couldn't help but marvel at the natural beauty that surrounded us. The vines reached out in celebration of the love that blossomed before them. The soft laughter and whispered words creating a melody of intimacy that resonated through the air. I guided the couple through directional posing, capturing their authentic selves in each frame.
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But it wasn't just about picture-perfect poses. It was about seizing those candid moments that truly encapsulated the love between them. The stolen glances, the shared smiles, the genuine laughter that echoed through the vineyard. These were the moments that made their engagement session come alive.
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<h2 id="" style="text-align: center;">We used two breathtaking locations in Traverse City for this engagement session.</h2>
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As the sun began its descent, we made our way to Mission Point Beach. It was here that the sky painted itself in shades of pink and purple. This is my favorite hour where the transition from golden hour to blue hour happens. With the gentle lapping of the waves as our soundtrack, the couple watched in awe as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a rosy hue over the water.
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Throughout the session, I strived to create a seamless client experience. I want to ensure that every moment is captured with precision and care. From the initial consultation to the final delivery of the edited images, I made it my mission to provide a service that was as unforgettable as the moments we captured together.
Traverse City, Michigan provided the perfect backdrop for this engagement session. This is a place where nature and love intertwine in a harmonious dance. As this session came to a close, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to be a part of their milestone.
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If you're looking for a photographer who will create a safe space for your authenticity, inquire with me! We can adventure around Michigan to create some magic.

Traverse City Engagement // Lauryn & Reed

We first hired Phern to do engagement photos to test her out before committing to a wedding photographer. She set up a call with me to see if we would be a good fit, to establish a relationship, and ensure she would be the right person to tell our story. She was professional and incredibly friendly.
On the day of our wedding, it was like having a really good friend there to capture the best day of our lives.
Phern kept us on schedule, worked very well with our videographer, and made sure we had all of the family photos we asked for. She also carried her step ladder the entire 8 hours she was there! Phern is worth every penny. I cannot recommend her enough!

Sydney & Jacob

Phern is an unstoppable talent! If she could photograph all of my events for the rest of my life, I would have it that way.

She was very communicative with us, made us feel like we were in safe hands on our wedding day and is a powerhouse when it comes to getting the best photos and editing them to perfection! I highly HIGHLY recommend!!!

Abby & Kate

If I could give 1000 stars, I WOULD!
From the very beginning, Phern took the time to understand our vision. Her friendly demeanor made us feel instantly comfortable and allowed us to express our desires.Her presence blended seamlessly with the joyful atmosphere, ensuring that she captured every precious moment even amongst the chaos.  What impressed us the most was Phern's versatility. She effortlessly transitioned between capturing candid shots, posed portraits, and stunning landscapes.
Her talent and professionalism are unparalleled. If you want a photographer who goes above and beyond to deliver excellence, look no further. Thank you, Phern, for immortalizing our wedding day in the most exquisite and heartfelt manner possible.

Alycea & Ty

Phern is AMAZING! I found Phern on Instagram about a year before our wedding, and her feed helped me see that I could totally have a wedding that was fun and vibrant. We booked her for an engagement session and loved working with her before the wedding to get to know her! She was so attentive to detail and we loved the engagement photos! For our wedding, Phern helped us put together a detailed timeline and even helped us save on a 2nd photographer. Phern was so accommodating on the wedding day, and even did my hair in a beautiful updo during the reception after we took photos outside and my hair fell out in the July humidity. She is so so talented in her craft, but also so warm and friendly! We love our photos so much.

Ally Ray

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The Wildest Dreams Wedding Package is everything I offer to make your day truly unforgettable. You’ll get 12 hours of coverage with a second photographer to capture every angle, plus a free engagement session. I’ll deliver over 1,000 high-res and web-sized images—curated to highlight the very best moments—through an online gallery with a full year of storage. Your memories will also come to life in a 25-page fine art wedding album and a beautiful wooden USB with your entire gallery. I’ll even cover your rehearsal dinner for up to 2 hours, giving you 200+ images from that special evening. Plus, I’ll guide you through the entire planning process with consultation meetings, a custom timeline, and exclusive resources like my detailed wedding and vendor guides. It's everything you need to feel completely supported and excited for your big day!

Wildest Dream Wedding Photography (12 Hours, 2 Photographers)

The Wild Magic Wedding Photography Package is perfect for couples who want a full day of beautiful, uninterrupted coverage. With 10 hours of continuous photography, I’ll capture all the special moments—from the first look to the last dance. You’ll receive over 1,000 high-res and web-sized images, delivered via an online gallery with one year of cloud storage. Plus, I’ll send you a wooden USB containing your entire gallery, so you can keep your memories in a tangible form. I’ll be with you every step of the way, offering creative and logistical consultation meetings to make sure everything runs smoothly. You’ll also get access to exclusive planning downloads, including a 30+ page wedding guide, vendor recommendations, and a wardrobe guide to help with your big day prep. As a bonus, enjoy 25% off an engagement session to get even more stunning photos leading up to your wedding. It’s a complete package to ensure your wedding photography experience is as seamless and magical as the day itself!

Wild Magic Wedding Photography (10 Hours, 1 Photographer)

The Wilder Than Life Wedding Photography Package is perfect for couples who want a high-energy, full day of unforgettable moments captured with style and ease. With 8 hours of continuous coverage, I’ll document all the magic of your day, from the quiet moments to the celebrations. You’ll receive a collection of high-res and web-sized images, delivered via an online gallery with one year of cloud storage, so you can revisit your memories whenever you like. I’m here to guide you through the process with creative and logistical consultation meetings to ensure everything flows smoothly. Plus, you’ll get exclusive planning resources, including a 50-page wedding guide, vendor list, and wardrobe suggestions to help you get the most out of your day. As a bonus, enjoy 15% off an engagement session to make sure you have even more beautiful photos to treasure. It’s the perfect balance of professional coverage and personalized support to make your wedding day truly unforgettable.

Wilder Than Life Wedding Photography (8 Hours, 1 Photographer)

The Focal Essentials All You Need Plan lets you create a beautiful business website with the power of AI. Create Packages, Pricing pages and Blogs. Make booking easy for your client with Focal's Booking System. 5TB of Gallery Storage.

All You Need (Website + Booking System) Plan

fun phern

<h1 style="text-align: center;">Making Your Images</h1>
<h1 style="text-align: center;">Punchy &amp; Colorful</h1>
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Elevate your portfolio with real colors, accurate skin tones, and a good punch! Curated with a love for colors in mind along with rich shadows and bright whites while
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keeping it all balanced.
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">The Desktop Presets:</h2>
A versatile base preset, five lighting-based alternatives, two black &amp; white presets, and a PDF guide to downloading &amp; installing your brand new presets! Ideal for photographers using Lightroom Classic on desktop.
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Presets

Real Love, True Colors, and Unforgettable Moments.

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You will find the about page from my existing website between the “” below. You can use this section primarily for tone of voice and style as opposed to content. Make sure that all references to the self are in the first person singular, as I am the only photographer on my team. Please also ensure that there are no references to “our team” or “our photographer”. Instead, all writing should be coming directly from me. I would also like it to be quite down to earth and without lots of fluff and flowery language.


"I remember being eight years old just before the age of social media and Netflix, and my favorite past time was flipping through all the photo books I found.

I was fourteen when my sister introduced me to the PicMonkey and Picnik era (IYKYK), and I was known for editing my Facebook friends' profile photos.

At fifteen, I became obsessed with the world of Tumblr, so I began taking my own photos, editing a dramatic quote on them on PicMonkey, and proudly sharing on the internet.

Once I got my hands on my first DSLR camera at sixteen, (the good ole Canon Rebel T3) I spent HOURS on YouTube and Google learning every single function, and took every chance to practice.

These days, I can shoot manual in my sleep and can differentiate between "cool" white and "warm" white. I'm passionate about serving the people that see the value in my craft within this profession. I have immense gratitude for those that choose me, and I vow to be just as invested in YOU as you have invested in me."