Elizabeth and Alex

The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a warm golden glow that beckoned me to capture something magical. I had the pleasure of spending the evening with Elizabeth and Alex, two adventurous souls who were on the brink of welcoming their first child. This maternity session promised not just beautiful images, but an experience filled with laughter, connection, and a whole lot of spontaneity.

We began our journey at The Mill coffee shop, a cozy little nook where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the chatter of fellow patrons. As they settled into a corner table, I watched them write notes to their future son. It was a tender moment, one that felt so personal and indescribably beautiful. I couldn’t help but reflect on past couples I had worked with—those candid moments of love, like surprise proposals and vibrant engagements—this felt just as significant, a milestone in their own unique story. I captured a few shots, ensuring their genuine expressions shone through.

After filling up on caffeine and heartfelt words, we ventured over to a cozy pizza shop nearby. The carefree atmosphere was inviting, and as we shared a couple of pies, I was reminded of how essential playfulness is in couples photography. The contrast of laughter amidst the backdrop of spinning pinball machines brought a vibrant, candid energy to the shoot. I snapped photos of them teasing each other, sharing bites, and losing track of time as Elizabeth introduced Alex to her legendary pinball skills. Watching them interact was a gift; I was simply the storyteller, capturing these joyful moments while they lived in the now.

As the sun began its descent, we made our way to Joslyn Castle, a breathtaking location known for its romantic vibes and scenic views. I remember feeling a twinge of anxiety—timing and lighting are everything in photography. I wanted to create that cinematic quality that encapsulated the magic of golden hour while ensuring the essence of their love radiated through each frame. As we arrived, the light washed the landscape in hues of orange and gold, perfect for the kind of timeless photography I strive for.

We set up a picnic, a charming addition to our evening. I captured their playful interactions, the soft glances, the laughter that spilled out between them; each click of the shutter was an invitation to the viewer to share in their story. I often think about how adventurous couples like Elizabeth and Alex embrace the spontaneity of life, and this session was no different.

As I stepped back to observe from a distance, it struck me how natural and effortless their connection felt against the backdrop of the golden hour. The vibrant colors painted the scene with such life, making my job both a pleasure and an adventure. I was reminded of my travels—from the streets of Chicago to the mountains in Colorado, from the coastal vibes of Oregon to the serene lakes of the Midwest—every experience enriched my understanding of light, love, and storytelling through photography.

Wrapping up the session, I encouraged them to relax under the golden canopy of the fading sun. As they nestled together, I captured the last glimmers of magic, preserving this beautiful chapter of their lives forever. I could feel the excitement radiating from them as they prepared for parenthood, and I was grateful to document not just images, but feelings and moments that would surely become cherished memories.

As I drove home that evening, I couldn’t help but smile. This wasn’t just another session; it was a celebration—of love, of life, and of the wondrous journey ahead. My heart felt full, knowing that I had been a part of their story, a tiny piece of the documentary that would follow them through the upcoming years. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love what I do, chasing light and laughter to create memories that would stand the test of time.