Anniversary Couple's Session // Blue Hour Swim in Deam Lake

I've been in the mood to shoot during blue hour lately. There is just something about that time right after sunset that allows for play in so many ways— switching up shutter speeds and accessing a whole different color palette. For this session, we got the most gorgeous golden hour complete with a light rainstorm, a small rainbow, and a stunning sunset— as well as an interesting blue hour as well. 

Abby and Schyler have been together as long as I can remember. I first photographed them dancing at my senior prom. Over the years, I've loved watching their big milestones online— including seven years of marriage and two sweet children. They've had so many amazing big moments together and have supported each other through some really hard times too. Despite all the years, as they played together and goofed off during our session they were giving off some serious newlywed vibes. It's obvious that they are just as in love now as they were ten years ago. 

Abby made me cry, when the morning after the session she wrote me, "Thanks again so much for last night. For us, it was more than just a photo session. It was nice to be a little more carefree and focus on each other. We got to reconnect in a way and play around like we were young again thanks to you. You are so amazing at what you do and you made us feel super comfortable all while having fun. Thank you so much."

I love anniversary sessions so much, in case you do too check out Chris & Cassie's Chicago conservatory session or Alex & Collin's in-home session.

Michler's Greenhouse Engagement Session

Last year Micaha & Austin introduced me to one of my favorite places in the world: Michler's. Their engagement sessions is still one of my favorites, and Michler's now holds a special place in my heart. I've been *literally* every single time I've been to Lexington since... I just love it that much. So when Stephanie & Brandon suggested doing their couple's session in the greenhouses I was over the moon. 

Not only did we get to use all their gorgeous plants as a backdrop, but Native Cafe was open so we got to talk Harry Potter & Star Trek over beers as well. My favorite engagement sessions are the ones where I get to basically be a (welcome and fun!) third wheel on a date. Stephanie & Brandon plan to elope on their anniversary this year in Pennsylvania— it seems like the perfect fit for them.

If you are wanting more greenhouse goodness try Micaha & Austin's engagement session or Chris & Cassie's anniversary session in Chicago's Lincoln Park Conservatory.

Adventurous Hiking & Bookstore Engagement Session

Maggie and Corey met as English majors and are self-proclaimed book nerds. They also love hiking and exploring the outdoors, so naturally, we decided that Carmichael's and Cherokee Park would be the perfect locations to visually represent their relationship. It was so nice getting the chance to talk about favorite books and favorite hikes— both are topics I love. Maggie is a high school English teacher (note to self: have someone proofread this before posting 😂) so it made me smile that she picked up the same Rupi Kaur book of poetry I was reading before they arrived. 

When we got to Cherokee, I was pleased to see they were both wearing hiking boots. After all the recent rain there was quite a bit of mud on our path and if they had worn dress shoes we wouldn't have been able to get to many of the best spots. Maggie also brought a jean jacket so we could mix up her look a bit. For any of you that are planning your engagement session outfits—  comfortable, practical shoes and layers are your two best friends. 

Maggie's parents brought their two adorable dogs to join us after we had a chance to take photos of just the two of them exploring. I love getting the opportunity to include your pups in your photos, but it can be stressful for you to have them there the whole time— especially while we are trying to get photos of just the two of you. I always recommend that a friend or family member bring them for the last twenty minutes of our session to cut back on stress while still allowing them to be part of your engagement session. 

Another great way to include pets in your photos is to do an in-home session— just like Alex and Collin did with their very good boy Sirius for their anniversary photos.