Annie and Patrick's Adventurous Engagement Session

We all know that couple – the ones who can’t stop smiling when they’re together. They’re the couple who walk into a room and unwittingly fill the space with laughter. Somehow when they’re together, an ordinary day running errands turns into a grand adventure. They’re best friends first and lovers second. There are no secrets or spaces between them; they know each other like they know themselves. In fact, they’re so close that there’s no denying their relationship will go the distance. That’s what Annie and Patrick have together. Their love is palpable, and it made photographing their engagement session a delight!

couple stands in a large forest with their arms around each other smiling during their adventurous engagement session

Patrick’s Proposal to Annie

Patrick proposed on Valentine’s Day while “on an adventure in Washington DC,” says Annie. The ring Patrick chose for Annie suits her personality perfectly; the marquis diamond and four pronged band feel vintage with a just a hint of quirky charm.

detail shot of a sparkling diamond engagement ring sitting on a rock captured during an engagement photoshoot

close up shot of a mans arms wrapped around his fiance while she places her hands over his and shows off her engagement ring

An Engagement Session Full of Adventure

When Annie told me she wanted their engagement session to be photographed at Belle Isle, I know we were in for a treat. The couple’s passion for nature combined with their fun-loving personalities made these lovebirds a breeze to photograph. They were so real and comfortable together that they truly didn’t need much help posing or interacting with each other. “We had so much fun climbing the slippery wet rocks and splashing in the water!” says Annie. “It made me feel like a kid again.”

I genuinely enjoyed watching the sparks fly as these sweethearts played on the smooth rocks of the James River.

woman jumps into her fiances arms and wraps her arms around his neck as they kiss in bare feet beside a flowing river

When Opposites Attract

You can tell that Annie is the more outgoing of the two; it’s clear that no one can make Patrick smile the way Annie does. And while Patrick may be more reserved, his affectionate gaze makes it evident that he adores his bride-to-be!

couple laughs and smiles while standing on a rock in bare feet beside a flowing river during their adventure engagement photoshoot

Celebrating Ordinary Extraordinary Moments

I love how Patrick lovingly reached for Annie’s hand to help her across the slippery rocks. In fact, the unposed moments during this engagement session are some of my favorites. It feels like I’ve captured authentically intimate everyday moments. But somehow these ordinary moments make Annie and Patrick’s love story that much sweeter.

newly engaged couple stands holding hands in a stream together smiling during their outdoor engagement photo session

Congratulations, Annie and Patrick! It was an honor photographing your adventurous engagement session. I can’t wait to photograph your wedding in May!