The Engagement Photos That Made My Client Cry (For the Right Reasons)

The story I am about to share is about an extraordinary woman who had been through an unimaginable trauma. She was a survivor, a warrior, a bride-to-be who thought she would never trust, or even begin to like, let alone love a man. Or herself. Or her body, for that matter. The aftermath of a sexual assault had left a deep scar on her psyche, causing her to build a wall around herself, especially when it came to photos - the fear of being vulnerable in front of the lens was too overwhelming for her.

As a photographer, my job is not just to click pictures. It's to capture emotions, make my subjects feel comfortable and confident in their own skin, and most importantly, create a safe space for them. This was even more critical in her case. I knew I had to approach the situation with utmost sensitivity, kindness, and patience.

I employed a trauma-informed approach, a practice that involves understanding, recognizing, and responding to the effects of all types of trauma. My background in psychology played a significant role in this. I made sure to establish a sense of trust and safety during our sessions. I gave her the freedom to express her concerns and fears. We worked together to figure out what poses made her feel comfortable and what didn’t. The whole experience was designed to be a collaborative process.

The day of the engagement shoot finally arrived. There was nervousness, yes, but also a glimmer of excitement in her eyes. Step by step, we went through the shoot, reinforcing the safe space, making sure she was comfortable. As I clicked the shutter button, I could see her slowly letting her guard down, embracing the moment, and shining in her own radiant light.

When the photos were finally revealed, she broke down in tears. But this time, they were tears of joy, of triumph over her fears, of reclaiming her body and her trust. Those photos were more than just engagement pictures. They were a testament to her journey of healing and self-love. They were a portrayal of her resilience and strength. And to have been able to contribute to that journey was truly humbling.