There’s nothing better than photographing a couple who is completely present with one another, and you can feel the love and ease between them. That was exactly the vibe with Sydney and Paul during their downtown Chicago engagement session. They fully embraced the moment, relaxing into each other as they had fun, laughed freely, and trusted the process.
Downtown Chicago Engagement
With the forecast showing a not-so-promising radar, we had to keep our plans flexible and they were so relaxed about it and were ready for whatever the day threw at us. We started near the Wrigley Building and Chicago Riverwalk, which is such a beautiful area in downtown where we used Chicago’s iconic architecture as our backdrop.
After spending time downtown, we headed to North Avenue Beach for a totally different scene, and a romantic finish to their engagement session. The beach gave us space for quieter, more intimate moments. On the beach with the skyline in the distance, the two popped champagne and celebrated this moment and their future together.
Their Love Story
Their love story began in Boston where Sydney was interning for a company where they both now work. For their first date, Sydney flew back out to Boston during peak COVID in 2020 just to go on their first date. They ended up talking for so long they forgot to eat dinner, which honestly says everything about their connection. How cute is that?! Throughout their relationship they have developed a love for doing everything from running and watching sports to cooking meals, drinking wine, and playing games together.
The Proposal
“It was a total surprise – Paul told me he had a reservation at a restaurant we had been trying to get into (something we enjoy doing together). As we were walking to the restaurant, we stopped along the way at the river and all of a sudden he got down on one knee. Immediate tears of joy and shock!”
Sweet, Silly, Intentional
From the minute we started shooting, it was clear that Sydney and Paul have the kind of relationship that’s full of playfulness and intention. Sydney shared that they’d describe themselves as fun, silly, romantic, and intentional – and I would 100% agree! Their dynamic was equal parts sweet and silly. They absolutely love to laugh together and have a good time with each other. Whether they were goofing around as they walked together holding hands or dancing barefoot at the beach, they brought such a natural, sweet energy to the day.
Why They Chose Me
Sydney mentioned that they chose me because she was drawn to my natural, candid style. In particular, she loved the classic and candid moments I capture of my couples. Hearing this meant so much to me! I always try to capture the authentic energy of a couple, documenting what they are really like. In the end, our Zoom meeting sealed the deal, as Sydney said she felt instantly comfortable with me, and that’s something I always strive for. It’s one thing to have great photos, but another to feel seen, comfortable, and celebrated while you’re having them taken.
Sydney and Paul, thank you for being so open, flexible, and full of joy. I can’t wait for your wedding day and all the beautiful, candid moments to come.
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View more resources and romantic Chicago engagements on the blog:
Candid Chicago Engagement Session
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