
Elijah and Arlette’s engagement session was the perfect reminder that your photos can be fun and still look amazing.
We started off with pumpkin heads for the first part of their session, then rolled into more classic fall portraits around the Michigan City and LaPorte area. Playful, seasonal, and totally them.
Fall sessions out here are always a win.
The colors, the cooler weather, and the overall cozy vibe make everything feel a little more cinematic. And when you add in a fun idea like pumpkin heads, it takes the session from “pretty photos” to “this is so us.”
We kicked things off with the pumpkin heads, and it was an absolute blast.
It instantly created real reactions. Laughing, messing with each other, and leaning into the goofy side of the season. The best part is that it still photographs really clean. You get the fun concept shots, plus a bunch of candid moments in between that feel effortless.
After the pumpkin head portion, we switched things up and captured more classic engagement portraits.
This is always the best approach when you have a theme or prop. Start with the fun, then settle into timeless portraits once you’re warmed up. By the time we hit the second half, Elijah and Arlette were completely in the zone, and the photos felt natural and connected.
You don’t have to choose between “fun” and “timeless.”
When you build in a playful idea like pumpkin heads and then balance it with classic portraits, you get a gallery that feels full and personal, without the theme taking over everything.
1) Start with the prop, then end with classic portraits.
You’ll warm up fast, and the second half will feel super natural.
2) Keep outfits simple.
Fall tones and clean layers photograph great and keep the focus on you two.
3) Embrace the laughter.
Theme photos work best when you’re not trying to make them “perfect.” The real moments are the whole point.
If you’ve got an idea that feels a little goofy or different, bring it. We love that stuff.
We’ll help you build a session that feels like you, keeps things relaxed, and still gives you those classic portraits you’ll want hanging on the wall.
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We’re Westley Leon Studios, a team of wedding photographers in South Bend, Indiana with an unwavering commitment to authentic imagery and a personal experience. For the couples who choose a damn good time over stuffy propriety every time.
Studio Address: 218 Front St Niles, MI 49120
Mailing Address: 1606 Oak St Niles MI 49120
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