No Paris photo session is complete without personal meaning. After years working as a professional photographer in Paris, I truly believe this.
There’s something magical about photographing people in Paris—but not for the reasons you might expect. It’s not about balancing on tiny cobblestone streets or snapping the same postcard angles everyone has seen a thousand times. What I love most is how the city acts like a quiet amplifier for your story in front of the camera.
When you strip away the clichés, Paris becomes an incredibly personal backdrop—one that feels intimate, lived-in, and entirely yours.
So here’s how to add meaning to your session so your photos feel like memories, not souvenirs.
1. Think Beyond Landmarks and Toward “Your Paris”
If you’ve spent some time in Paris already, this is for you.
Instead of defaulting to the usual stops, think about the places that reflect your relationship with the city (or each other). This way, you can add meaning and depth into your photos by choosing a special background or setting.
maybe it’s…
- the café where you learned to order confidently in French,
- the neighborhood where you stayed on your first trip together,
- a quiet stretch of riverbank where you like to unwind,
- or even a metro entrance you pass every morning
These subtle, everyday spaces often photograph more beautifully than crowded hotspots—and they capture the emotional geography of your time here.
2. Bring Something With Emotional Weight to add meaning
This applies to newcomers to Paris and longtime Paris lovers…
Props don’t have to be props, they can be meaningful mementos:
- a journal from your travels,
- a sketchbook you’ve been filling during your trip,
- a book you read together on a long train ride,
- a small heirloom or token that grounds you
Meaningful objects with history add layers to your photos—they hint at who you are without stealing the focus.
More Examples of meaningful objects:
- Film camera (if you’re into photography)
- Your grandmother’s heirloom necklace (in memory of her life and your relationship with her)
- Your wedding ring (obviously!)
- Notebook/sketchbook (if you’re a bookworm, artist, or writer)’
- Newspaper (If you want to go for that editorial, street photography style)
- Rugby ball or other sports equipment (if you play or watch sports)
- Pointe shoes/ballet costumes (if you’re a dancer)
- Instrument (violin, etc… if you’re a musician)
- Pet (Yes, clients sometimes bring their furry friend!)
Remember:
You do not NEED a prop or token for your portrait session. Only bring something if you feel your photoshoot wouldn’t be complete without it. You can absolutely add meaning to your session without physical objects. The idea behind props is to have an emotional anchor.
3. Wear Something That Feels meaningful to You
The best portrait sessions don’t look styled—they look lived in. Choose clothing that makes you feel comfortable, confident, and aligned with who you are right now.
Think textures that move (linen, silk, soft knits) and colors that don’t compete with the environment.
Paris has a gentle palette; you don’t need to “dress for Paris,” only for yourself. Paris already adds meaning on its own!
Check out our blog HERE for a complete guide on what to wear to your Paris photoshoot.
4. Think in Actions, Not Poses to add meaning
Some of my favorite moments happen between the “official” shots—when you’re reaching for each other’s hand, adjusting a jacket, laughing at something tiny and unremarkable. Sweet and funny moments like these add so much meaning to photos!
During our sessions, I’ll guide you and your family into movement that feels natural: strolling, leaning against a railing, pausing to look at the city around you. These micro-moments tend to reveal the most about your personality as a couple or family.
5. Reflect on the meaning: your Why?
Before your session, take a moment to ask yourself: Why Paris, and why now? There must be some meaning behind it.
Your answer becomes the emotional anchor of the session. Maybe you’re celebrating a milestone, taking a once-in-a-lifetime trip, or simply documenting a season of your life before it shifts. When you carry that intention into your shoot, the photos naturally feel more meaningful.
6. Let the City Be a Character—Not the Main Character
Paris doesn’t need to shout to be felt. It can be a soft blur behind you, a pattern of light, a quiet architectural detail. When you let the city sit in the background—literally and emotionally—you give space for your story to take center stage. This is a way to add meaning without even trying.
We have some of the best locations in the world to choose from! And if you need a good idea for the best spots in Paris, we’ve got you covered.
Check out our blog HERE for location inspiration.
You’ll find popular areas and private shoot options with breathtaking views for family portraits or couple shoots in the city of Paris.
Get ready for your Paris photography session to have timeless memories and a cinematic look. Your beautiful photos will showcase your own natural beauty and the the beauty of your relationships.
If the iconic look of the Eiffel Tower is your thing, I’m absolutely here for it!!
But, not every session needs the Iron Lady to be spectacular and oh-so-parisian. Trust me on this. I live here after all!
Ready to Book your Paris Photo Session?
Reach out HERE to book your session!
If you’re dreaming of a Paris photo session that actually feels like you—no clichés, no awkward poses, just meaningful, beautifully crafted images—I’d love to photograph your story. Bring us your Pinterest board, your love story, and all of your dreams for your Paris photo shoot. We’ll provide expert tips, stunning backdrops, the perfect time of day, years of experience shooting clients, and SO much fun in front of the lens.
I promise you will be thrilled with the end result. In fact, they’ll probably be the best photos of your life – that’s our goal anyways!
You’re in the right place, so now just let us guide you through the perfect engagement shoot, family session, or couple photo session in the city of lights. As a portrait photographer who loves special occasions, this is my bread and butter!
Let’s build something unforgettable together at Katie Donnelly Photography.
