Wow was it cold when we shot Andrea + Chris’s engagement session in Detroit. The wind was whipping off the Detroit River and our eyes were watering. But I kind of love it and these two were total troopers and we forged through it. We were all a bit relieved to find the Conservatory on Belle Isle still open so we could all warm up. I have never taken a couple to the memorial fountain on Belle Isle and I ended up loving it. I naturally gravitate toward architecture that is bright like the Grosse Pointe War Memorial or the back entrance of the Detroit Institute of Arts and now the fountain.

If I’m being honest, I’m typically not the outdoorsy type in the winter and would work to avoid shooting in the cold as well. This season I have a lot of couples traveling in from other states for their engagement sessions and couples that just wanted to shoot in the winter. I’m so happy step out of my comfort zone and try something different. And I’m loving the results. We do have to work a little harder in the cold to stay relaxed and keep the shoulders down. It can be a little tougher to capture true natural expression because their brains are screaming COLD! But it’s worth it. Chris and Andrea’s session, and other engagement sessions this winter have been extra snuggly and lead to the sweetest moments. The gray skies are a blank canvas so my well dressed couples shine as do their well thought out outfits. Andrea’s bright lip looks amazing in their portraits. Every future bride should wear a show stopping lipstick in their engagement photos. Wait until you see their little puppy dog, Wally! He looks like a squishy, cute little brown bear that you just want to squeeze.

I am so excited about your August wedding, Chris and Andrea at the Birmingham Community Houser ! The venue is new to me and I love shooting in new spaces. Thank you for sharing your afternoon with me. For snuggling close and creating such pretty and tender memories. Enjoy your sneak peek. Hugs!

To view more Belle Isle Engagement Sessions like this one, CLICK HERE!