High School Sweethearts & Blooming Orchids – A Sentimental Engagement Session


There’s something extra special about photographing couples who have already written chapters and chapters of their story before ever saying “I do.” That was absolutely the case with these two high school sweethearts, who’ve spent the last eight years growing up side by side. Both 24 years old now – she’s a teacher, he’s in construction – they’re planning an intimate wedding this fall with around 50 of their closest friends and family. And after spending the day with them during their engagement session, I can confidently say their day is going to be full of so much meaning and love.


We kicked off their session with soft light and a cozy, woodsy setting – something that felt authentic to them. They love spending time tucked away in Carmel, PA for weekend cabin getaways, and are total homebodies in the winter (who can blame them?). So I wanted the overall vibe of their session to feel laid-back and comfortable, just like them.


Neither of them are super experienced in front of the camera, but you honestly wouldn’t know it – they were so natural together. There were laughs, sweet in-between moments, and that effortless connection that comes from years of being each other’s person.


And then – surprise! – we made a spontaneous detour for a second location that I had scouted earlier that day. Right in the middle of Harrisburg the prized Capitol building. A pocket of delicate orchid blooms had popped up unexpectedly, and it felt like a little gift from nature. They were totally up for it, and those photos ended up being some of my favorites from the day. The soft florals paired perfectly with their energy – quiet, joyful, and full of anticipation for what’s ahead.


They’re getting married on October 11, 2025, with a ceremony that will take place in a meaningful church setting – something that’s deeply important to them and a top priority for their wedding photos. Knowing how intentional they are, I already can’t wait to document that day. It’s going to be a beautiful blend of their story, their people, and a whole lot of love.


Cheers to the next chapter, you two.

A couple embraces under a rustic wooden beam pavilion surrounded by spring foliage.
A romantic moment captured in a stone gazebo with wooden beams and natural lighting.
A black and white portrait of a couple in a stone pavilion with winter trees in background.
A light and airy engagement photo in a stone pavilion during early spring.
A tender moment shared between a couple sitting in a stone gazebo with natural light.
A joyful couple poses on a wooden boardwalk overlooking a peaceful stream.
A springtime engagement photo on a wooden dock by a peaceful stream.
A candid moment of laughter on a wooden walkway surrounded by spring trees.
Close-up of an elegant solitaire diamond engagement ring with pearl bracelet accent.
A couple embraces on a wooden boardwalk surrounded by spring trees and natural light.
A couple shares a tender moment together on a wooden walkway in a bright spring setting.
A couple dances together on a wooden bridge pathway surrounded by budding spring trees.
A couple in light colored clothing dances on a wooden boardwalk surrounded by spring foliage.
A romantic couple embraces on a sunlit path with blooming trees and houses in the background.
A couple stands together on a winding path with spring trees and buildings in the distance.