Detroit Fisher Building Engagement Photos | Annalise + Troy
A GUIDE TO ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS AT THE DETROIT FISHER BUILDING
Next up in my “Iconic Detroit Locations” series, I’d like to place a spotlight on the Detroit Fisher Building. Annalise and Troy’s engagement session at the Fisher - a classic landmark of the city so full of color and character - perfectly matches Annalise and Troy’s fierce love for one another.
The Fisher is a photo spot I’ve had the pleasure of shooting at multiple times over the three years I’ve been photographing couples and weddings. The staff at the Fisher are some of the most welcoming people in the city when it comes to photo sessions, and this time was no different with the happily engaged couple.
Annalise had connected with me to book their engagement photos after seeing a previous couple’s session (also at the Fisher - more on that session here). She knew she wanted a historic location with lots of character for their photos, so after chatting about a few other spots, the Fisher ultimately won out due to its ornate decor, welcoming photo policy, and notability.
PHOTOGRAPHY PERMIT
Many locations in Detroit have been implementing stricter photo policies in recent times. Historically, The Fisher has had one of the most friendly photo policies of all spots that allow photography downtown. In fact, they do not require an appointment, permit, or fee. They allow walk-in photo sessions during all building hours on the lobby level and next level down.
The Fisher is fairly low-light and ambient inside, so at my session with Annalise and Troy, I asked the security guard at the main desk if they allowed flash, and to my satisfaction, they did allow flash photography! That’s how we were able to capture flash photos like this at their session:
SESSION PLANNING
Annalise and Troy knew they wanted something classic for their photo location. After their session was officially booked, they received my Location Guide with over 20 metro-Detroit based locations. They considered a few other spots on the guide, but the Fisher was chosen due to its iconic stature and being able to come in at any time, making it much easier to align with their schedules.
I always send new clients my Outfit Guide a few weeks before their session, so Annalise and Troy were fully equipped with all the tips & tricks on color theory, how to not blend into the background of their location, and inspiration from previous AMP couples. Their outfits were perfect for the occasion - classic white and black for the future Bride and Groom.
Before the session, I also invite all my couples to visit my photo session prep blog that includes simple tips to mentally prepare for the session. This blog is great for showcasing how to let loose and feel more comfortable at your session - a huge priority for me is that you feel comfortable being yourselves and letting your love shine in the photos.
SESSION DAY
It was mid-spring the day of Annalise and Troy’s session, and when I parked my car on West Grand Blvd I was captivated by one thing outside that is different in every season - the cherry blossom trees. The trees were in full bloom and full of life and I immediately knew I wanted to capture a few photos for them with the trees. So that we did!
Before we officially started taking any photographs, though, I took a few minutes to chat with the future newly-weds and share the ideas I had in mind for the day. I also invited them to share their ideas they had at any point during the session. I believe it’s important to take a few minutes to be with each other before the camera is even present.
Part of the way I photograph people involves being observant of your own natural body language and the way you interact with each other. Oftentimes, I will see you move one way and point out that I liked it and would like to build off of that or have you do that same motion or pose again! It’s one of my favorite ways to capture photos that will make you feel seen and go “wow, that’s really us”.
Take it from the adorable couple themselves, who shared this text prior to our session.
“We chose you for great pictures and ideas, and trust [you].”
This photo in the stairwell was purely unplanned and in the moment. I had just asked A and T to walk up the stairs to grab some candid shots of them coming up, and then they reached the landing and leaned against the wall. I looked up at them and knew it would be a great opportunity to create visual interest through distance and spacing. The only direction I gave them was to reach out and grab each other’s hand, thus creating this shot (which was taken on the lower level of the Fisher Building)! A great example of how Annalise and Troy, as they naturally are, are purely photogenic.
They were purely in love too. Troy had no problem laying all the kisses on Annalise and it was the darned cutest thing. He even picked up a fallen cherry blossom and presented it to Annalise. If you’re dreaming of a stress-free photo session that feels natural and fun, message me about your engagement. I will guide you through the whole shoot - but definitely take notes from the lovebirds for sure!
After their session was over, we said our goodbyes to each other and the Fisher. Then I got to work on editing their engagement photos. Previews were in the future newly-weds’ inbox a few short days later, and their full gallery was delivered within 3 weeks!
When I think back to this session, I remember how laidback and easy going Annalise and Troy were. How they let themselves have fun and playfully showcase their love for one another. It’s sessions like theirs that I think back to time after time.
If you and your partner are ready to schedule your next photo session and receive planning resources, like my Locations Guide and Outfit Guide, submit your inquiry at the link below.
I’d be honored to guide you through the session and capture your love - truthfully and timelessly.
