Anti-Valentines Photoshoot Ideas for Nontraditional Couples, Singles, and Groups
Valentine's Day can be quite the polarizing holiday. Some of us have been struck by cupid's arrow, while the rest of us want him to steer clear, some of us enjoy getting decked out in red and getting roses, and some of us... don’t. If you fall into the latter camp, then this blog is for you.
Valentine’s Day is cute, but my black cat self is all about going for an anti-Valentine’s type of vibe. Don’t worry though, I have the perfect photoshoot ideas for a Valentine’s strike, whether you’ve got someone special or not.
Why Photoshoots Matter
To be photographed is to preserve a story as it exists right now, to claim space in your own narrative without waiting for a milestone or anyone else to come into it, and to document love — be it between you and your partner or self love — in a way that words alone can’t capture.
And if you’re someone who always puts up a fight when their partner asks them to get in front of the camera, or someone who’s too scared to do a solo shoot, come in a little closer and listen up. The great Moira Rose (Yes, Moira from Schitt’s Creek, RIP Catherine O'hara) once said, “One day you will look at those photos with much kinder eyes, and say, ‘Dear God, I was a beautiful thing.’”
Photos are about celebrating you because you are valued, and about preserving a version of yourself you’ll one day be grateful to remember because you don’t need permission, validation, or a partner to be photographed!
And if you’re in a couple, photos can prompt you to take the time to slow down and enjoy this chapter of your life. You’ll never be exactly like this with your partner again at this exact moment in life, and that’s something worth documenting.
If you’re single this year, photoshoots are fun anyway! You deserve to celebrate you because you are valued even when you don’t have a partner — being single is kinda fun so enjoy it. Use a photoshoot to claim space in your own narrative without waiting for a milestone or anyone else to come into it, and build your own confidence and independence.
Valentine’s Day
As I mentioned earlier, Valentine’s Day can be... polarizing. While some people enjoy the giant teddy bears and massive rose bouquets, that may not be your cup of tea. And there’s nothing wrong with that. I’m here to show you what Valentines could be so that you can celebrate your love in a way that feels true to you!
Anti-Valentines Photoshoot Ideas
Cherries and Mon Cheries
Galentines vibes with your besties.
Couples don’t get to have all the fun on Valentine’s Day, ever heard of Galentine’s Day? Let’s give platonic love some love this February. Grab your girls and a camera (preferably one with me behind it) and let’s have some fun
Outfit idea: Monochrome red outfits in different shades. Monochrome feels like it’s really having a moment, and for good reason. Lean into being bold and beautiful by going all out with the red. I promise it’ll be worth it when you see how striking it is on camera.
Prop suggestions: Red roses, cherries, and heart shaped everything.
Pink Power
All the slumber party vibes.
Leave the saving the world and having photoshoot fun to the men? I don’t think so.
Call up your gal pals — bonus points of it’s on a cute rotary phone — and let’s have some girl time
Outfit idea: Make a day out of it and find some vintage silky sleepwear and nightgowns to truly channel your feminine energy. Pair with your most dramatic feather boa
Venue suggestion: Modal House. While it may not be your childhood bedroom, this Airbnb brings the style, and is the perfect backdrop for a slumber party.
Morticia and Gomez
Your gothic romance dreams come true.
True love can be in black and white, these two prove it. They really said, “til death do us part.” Pay homage to these anti-Valentine’s icons with a photoshoot, and channel their everlasting love without having to be be too mushy.
Outfit idea: Your best black tie attire. Go for floor length velvet numbers and all black suits of only the highest caliber, and pair with your highest heels. Add some lace corsets and candles and your look should be complete.
Venue suggestion: Bridgeway Station. This outdoor shopping center was modeled after a castle worthy of Morticia and Gomez, and definitely worthy of some photos
Boudoir because you can
The greatest love is self love
Instead of waiting on a knight in shining armour to make you feel good, do it yourself. Boudoir shoots are so empowering, and they can be all for you. Nervous? I’ve got you covered, here’s how to prepare for your boudoir session.
Outfit idea: Whatever makes you feel comfortable and like your best self! Need lingerie suggestions? I’ve taken care of that too!
Prop suggestions: Conversation hearts, heart shaped lollipops, florals of every shape and color. And if whips and chains excite you, I can get into that, too!
Just us two
Because love doesn’t have to be glamorous
For better or for worse, in sickness and in health, and even in pajamas on the couch because we’re too old for this fancy dinner shit any more. So let’s celebrate that! Wine, takeout on the couch, and the love of your life.
Outfit idea: Cute silk pajamas in pink, red, or black.
Venue suggestion: Your house! Or, Studio 1192. This fun studio has so many options, and has a fantastic, sleek couch so you can be classy and comfy. Not full glam, but not sweats either. Juuuuuust right.
Love bites
Crazy-not-in-love
Sometimes, you really don’t want to think about love on Valentine’s Day. And that’s ok. Embrace that, and come hang out with me to channel your rage and heartbreak into something epic. Let’s get real unhinged.
Outfit idea: Leather and lace in black or red, dark makeup and bright red lipstick.
Prop suggestions: A heart shaped pinata (for destroying), a bedazzled baseball bat, red and pink glass to smash (safely).
Do these sound like fun?
Head on over to my inquire page and lets get to planning!
