There’s something special about Bernheim Forest in the fall—the golden light, the quiet paths, and art installations around every turn. It turned out to be the perfect setting for Sam and Haley’s engagement session: thoughtful, creative, cozy, and a little adventurous. Just like them.
They brought a picnic with some of their favorite books, a sketchpad, and each other. After we wandered the grounds and created some gorgeous photos among the trees and sculptures, they settled into a little clearing, shared snacks, and sketched. They flipped through well-loved books and talked. It felt less like a photo session and more like a date—which is always the goal.
Engagement sessions are at their best when they reflect who you are as a couple. Bringing things you love—like sketching, hiking, reading, or even just a favorite blanket and a snack—can take the pressure off and make the whole experience feel easy, even fun. Sam is a painter, and Haley is a writer. They spend a lot of their time creating near each other, so it made perfect sense to include that part of their relationship in the photos.
They met on Hinge during the pandemic and had a long & slightly chaotic first date hiking at Clifty Falls—complete with a dead phone and getting lost in the woods. But they clicked immediately, and that same adventurous energy has stayed with them. Their life together now includes cooking weeknight dinners, visiting art markets, cuddling their dogs on MegaCouch (their beloved oversized blue couch), and planning weekend hikes or dinner parties with friends.
Their proposal story reflects how intentional they are with each other. Haley decorated their home with flowers and lights and surprised Sam after dinner one night—friends hiding on the deck, filming the whole thing while their dogs looked on. Sam proposed right back.
If you’re planning your engagement session, here’s a tip: think of it like planning a date. What would make you feel most like yourselves? What kinds of places or activities bring you joy? Whether it’s sketching in the woods or grabbing tacos on the river, the best photos happen when you’re doing something you love—with the person you love.
Looking for location inspiration for your engagement photos? These 7 unique engagement photo locations in Louisville are sure to help.
Ready to start planning your own session?
Whether you have a specific idea in mind or just know you want something that feels like you, I’d love to help you bring it to life. Reach out here and let’s make something beautiful together.
