Kelly and Everett’s dreamy Duke Gardens engagement session
I had the absolute joy of photographing Kelly and Everett’s engagement session at the stunning Duke Gardens! From the moment they arrived, it was clear this session would be something special. Kelly was positively glowing with excitement, ready to step into her model moment, while Everett was the perfect calm and steady counterpart. Together, they brought an infectious energy that made this session one to remember.
Duke Gardens provided the perfect backdrop, with its lush greenery, serene water features, and endless opportunities for romantic, storybook-like photos. Despite the August heat and humidity, Kelly and Everett embraced every moment, and the results were nothing short of magical.
A tale of two looks
We kicked things off with their first set of outfits, which perfectly captured the dreamy, fairytale vibe Kelly had envisioned. Kelly’s flowing peach dress was made for twirling, and Everett complemented her beautifully in a classic blue shirt. We wandered through the gardens, finding hidden nooks, vibrant floral backdrops, and sunlit paths that felt straight out of a romance novel.
One of my favorite moments from this part of the session was a wide shot we captured at the central fountain. With Kelly and Everett framed by the elegant curves of the fountain and the garden’s rich greenery, the photo radiates timeless elegance. It’s the kind of shot that feels right at home on a mantelpiece or tucked into a wedding album.
For their second set of outfits, we went for a more casual vibe. Kelly and Everett’s personalities shone through as they laughed and joked together, showing the fun, easygoing dynamic that makes their relationship so strong. This part of the session brought a relaxed energy, proving that sometimes the simplest setups create the most authentic moments.
The love story behind the photos
One thing that stood out during the session was just how excited Kelly and Everett were about their upcoming wedding. Their enthusiasm was absolutely contagious! From their early planning stages to keeping the momentum going right up to the big day, their commitment to celebrating their love story was inspiring.
It was clear that these photos were more than just engagement portraits — they were a celebration of the life they were building together. Every smile, every glance, and every moment in front of the camera spoke volumes about the connection they share.
Tips for a summertime engagement session
Kelly and Everett’s session was a perfect example of how to make the most of a summer photo shoot. While Duke Gardens offers endless beauty, it’s important to plan for the elements, especially in early August when the heat and humidity can be intense.
Here are a few takeaways from this session for couples considering a summer engagement shoot:
Stay hydrated: Bring water to stay refreshed and energized throughout the session.
Opt for breathable fabrics: Flowy dresses like Kelly’s not only look amazing in photos but also keep you comfortable in the heat.
Be prepared for touch-ups: A small bag with blotting papers, a compact mirror, or a hairbrush can help keep you photo-ready.
Embrace the light: Summertime golden hour lighting is worth the wait. The soft, warm glow we captured in the gardens was absolutely magical.
Why engagement sessions matter
For Kelly and Everett, this session wasn’t just about getting beautiful photos—it was about taking a moment to slow down and enjoy their engagement. It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of wedding planning, but carving out time to celebrate the in-between moments is so important.
An engagement session is also a great way to get comfortable in front of the camera, connect with your photographer, and create keepsakes that capture this exciting chapter of your life.
Final thoughts
Kelly and Everett’s Duke Gardens engagement session was a perfect blend of romance, joy, and natural beauty. It’s sessions like these that remind me why I love what I do. Seeing the love and excitement these two share was such an honor, and I can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next.
If you’re planning an engagement session of your own, let’s chat! Whether you’re dreaming of a fairytale location or something uniquely yours, I’d love to help bring your vision to life.
Ready to capture your love story?
I’d love to learn more about your wedding plans and discuss how we can create timeless memories together. Let’s make your big day unforgettable.
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