I cannot wait to show you this beautiful engagement session at Forest Park! Just… wow!
And, by the way, if you’ve ever said “we’re so awkward in front of the camera,” this post is for you. I hear this all the time, especially from couples planning their engagement session. Anne and Tom said the exact same thing before this stunning session. They were convinced they wouldn’t know what to do. They worried they hadn’t prepared enough; sure the camera would make them freeze. But the moment we started, something shifted. They relaxed into each other, trusted the process, and by the end, they were laughing, spinning, and soaking up the evening light like seasoned pros.
So I promise, even if you feel awkward, I hear this all. the. time. And yet… we create magic like this. Take this as your sign to trust the process!
Forest Park Engagement Photos are always a good idea in my book.
We chose a route that showed off the classic beauty of the St. Louis Art Museum and the beautiful open fields around Emerson Grand Basin. This spot is perfect for an engagement session because it gives you so many looks in one location. The stone architecture brought that timeless “old money” feel to their images, while the shots in the basin brought out the playful, romantic side.
Anne wore a soft white two-piece set with a flowing skirt that moved beautifully with every step. Her pearl necklace and delicate bow added a gentle, romantic touch to the vibe. Tom kept things classic with a deep navy suit and tan shoes. It was the perfect “anchor point” for the images. These simple outfits worked so well with each shift in environment, too. They were neutral without being boring at all. And the perfect nod to their wedding day attire.
One of my favorite moments was watching them walk toward the museum steps.
The tall columns framed them perfectly. It felt grand, but still quiet and personal. And again, later, we wandered toward the flowers in the garden. That’s where the sunset hit Anne’s ring just right and we got that beautiful ring shot. The sapphire glowed with the warm light, surrounded by bright yellow blooms.
These tiny, natural pauses always help couples settle in and forget the camera is even there. And that was certainly the case for this shoot in Forest Park.
By the time we reached the Grand Basin, they were fully in the moment.
They danced beside the old lamp posts, walked hand in hand down the pathways, and twirled until her skirt floated around her like something out of a classic film. My favorite part of every session is when couples realize they actually don’t need to “pose.” They just need to be themselves. That energy is always what makes the photos come alive.
As we ended by the water with the museum on the hill behind them, the light softened into the prettiest glow before sunset.
They leaned into each other, held hands, and forgot the world for a second. If I can help you embrace the season of being fiancé, and carve out time for the world (and wedding planning) to slow down for a minute: I have done my job.
When these two received their gallery, Anne texted me some of the best feedback I could receive as a St. Louis wedding photographer: “You directed magic.” she said, “…We really just needed to show up and be ourselves with you.”
That’s the heart of every session for me. You don’t need to practice or rehearse. You just need to show up as you are.
If you’re dreaming of photos filled with movement, warmth, and natural connection, let’s meet up at Forest Park (or somewhere else that is special to you!) and take photos. Inquire here to get in touch!
