Still absolutely obsessed with the photos from the beautiful engagement session we had this week in Raleigh! It was a treat to get to know this couple before their bridal photo session and wedding later this year.
We timed our session at the JC Raulston Arboretum so the sun would be low enough in the sky that it wasn’t too harsh, but high enough that we had plenty of soft, natural daylight. The Arboretum is full of mature trees in full bloom, so there were no issues finding plenty of magical shade!
We love love LOVE the stonework, pergolas, and (most of all) the white gazebo hidden among the winding paths of the Arboretum. It’s hard to believe these gardens are so close to the heart of downtown Raleigh. Just a few steps in from the entrance and you’ve entered pure tranquility!
It is so valuable to have an engagement and/or bridal session scheduled with your wedding photographer before your wedding day. We LOVE that this bride set up both!
Obviously, you get gorgeous photos from the engagement session. You’ll use them to celebrate your engagement, personalize your save the dates, and treasure for a lifetime. But there’s more! The last thing that you’ll want when you’re sitting in the makeup chair on your wedding day is to be meeting your photographer for the first time.
There are two big benefits to getting to know your photographer before your wedding day, and they actually make your wedding photos better! First, you’re more comfortable. We get to know our clients and always end up having tons of fun by the end of the engagement photos. Second, you’ve had a chance to learn about one another. You understand your photographer’s working style and your photographer understands your personality and needs/wants when it comes to photography.
We’re on the cusp of summer and it’s starting to get HOT in Raleigh! This afternoon wasn’t bad, but this couple did a great job dressing practically and comfortably. Her flowing green dress popped against his classic white polo and the dreamy scenery. They nailed the semi-formal vibe without breaking a sweat!
Walking through the 10-acre Arboretum is like a journey around the globe. That’s why it’s nationally-renowned among plant-lovers! It’s pretty amazing; every time you turn a corner it is like entering a garden in a different part of the world.
These shots were captured in possibly our favorite spot, the Japanese gardens. These gardens are surrounded by ivy-covered walls and roof and gorgeous in all four seasons. They even have raked gravel inspired by traditional Japanese gardens.
We are so grateful for the opportunity to celebrate this couple’s engagement. We’re looking forward to seeing more of their love story with their bridal photography session and wedding later this year!
