Emin reached out wanting to plan something meaningful and intimate for Selma, and Sekrit Theater felt like the perfect place. If you’ve been around here for a while, you know I shoot here often — but every story feels brand new. This one hit different in the best way.

Emin and Selma are both Muslim and originally from Turkey, so their proposal needed to honor their faith and values. Before marriage, physical touch isn’t permitted, which shaped how we approached the session — and honestly, it made everything feel even more special.

Inside the greenhouse, candles lined the checkered floor, soft pink florals framed the space, and sunlight filtered through the vines overhead. When Emin dropped to one knee, Selma’s face said it all — shock, happiness, and that “wait… is this really happening?” look we live for. No big gestures, no touching — just eye contact, laughter, and pure emotion.

After the proposal, we wandered through the greenhouse together. No hand-holding, but plenty of shy smiles and side glances. We sat across from each other, talked, laughed, and let the moment sink in. It felt calm, joyful, and very them.

It happened to be drizzling on this fall day so we headed outside with umbrellas, and they loosened up even more. So much real laughter, little looks back at each other, and that newly-engaged glow you can’t fake.

Photographing halal love

I loved photographing this session because it showed how powerful connection can be without physical touch.

Halal posing looks like:
• Letting eye contact tell the story
• Using space in a beautiful way
• Capturing real emotion
• Keeping everything modest and respectful

It’s such an honor when couples trust me to understand their beliefs and document their story in a way that feels true to them.

Emin + Selma

Thank you both for trusting me with such a big moment. Your love is soft, joyful, and full of excitement for what’s ahead. I’m still smiling thinking about Selma’s reaction and how you both couldn’t stop laughing afterward.

If you’re a Muslim couple looking for a photographer who understands modest posing and culturally respectful storytelling, I’d absolutely love to work with you!