A downtown Durham engagement session with Hallie and Molly
When Hallie and Molly reached out to me about their engagement session, they knew exactly what they wanted: a downtown Durham shoot that reflected their love for the city they call home. From the skyline views to the charming alleys, their session was the perfect mix of laid-back elegance and personal meaning.
Starting with skyline views
We kicked off the session at the top of one of Durham’s parking decks, a spot that offers incredible views of the city skyline. The weather was perfect — overcast with moments of soft sunlight that added depth and mood to the photos.
Hallie and Molly looked absolutely stunning, making my job so much easier. They brought their A-game with their outfits: chic, timeless, and perfectly coordinated for the urban backdrop.
The skyline photos set the tone for the session, capturing the city they love from a perspective that felt fresh and intimate.
Exploring downtown’s hidden gems
After the parking deck, we headed to the heart of downtown, where Durham’s unique character shines through its brick alleyways, vibrant murals, and cozy corners. One highlight was the alley near Alley 26, where twinkle lights strung above the brick walls created a warm, magical atmosphere.
Hallie and Molly were completely at ease in front of the camera, which allowed their personalities and connection to take center stage. The twinkle lights paired with their classy vibe made for some of my favorite photos of the session.
Why Durham was the perfect choice
While Hallie and Molly didn’t bring pets, props, or other personal touches to the session, their choice of location spoke volumes about their story. Their connection to Durham was the meaningful “prop” of the day, and it was such a joy to capture their love in the city that feels like home to them.
Downtown Durham offers an incredible variety of backdrops, from industrial vibes to cozy alleys, making it a dream location for couples who want urban charm with plenty of character.
A perfect post-session idea
One of the best parts of Hallie and Molly’s session was what came after: they turned their engagement shoot into a date night. Taking my advice, they made a reservation at Alley 26, the restaurant near our final photo spot.
Ending your session with a dinner reservation or fun outing is a great way to make the day even more special. It allows you to celebrate the moment, reflect on the experience, and enjoy some quality time together.
Tips for your downtown Durham engagement session
If you’re considering a downtown Durham engagement session, here are a few tips inspired by Hallie and Molly:
Choose meaningful locations: Whether it’s a favorite restaurant, a mural you love, or simply the city you call home, picking locations that resonate with you will make your photos feel even more personal.
Coordinate outfits for the urban vibe: Hallie and Molly’s classy, timeless outfits complemented the city’s aesthetic beautifully. Think sleek lines, neutral tones, or pops of color that stand out against brick and concrete.
Plan for golden hour or overcast lighting: Overcast days are a photographer’s dream for even, flattering light, and golden hour adds warmth and glow to any setting.
End with a celebration: Turn your engagement session into a mini celebration by planning a date afterward. It’s a perfect way to make the day feel extra special.
Wrapping up
Hallie and Molly’s engagement session was a true reflection of their love for each other and their city. From the skyline views to the twinkle-lit alleys, every moment felt effortless and uniquely them.
If you’re planning your engagement session and wondering how to make it personal, take a cue from Hallie and Molly: Choose a location that feels like home, bring your style and personality, and don’t forget to celebrate the experience with a date night afterward.
Thank you, Hallie and Molly, for trusting me to capture this exciting chapter in your lives — it was an absolute joy to work with you!
