Sometimes, the best photos happen in the most unexpected places. Case in point: the middle of a parking lot at Northwestern University.
We had just wrapped up Elena & Jeremy’s engagement session and were walking back to our cars, all of us buzzing with excitement because the session already felt like such a success. Then I spotted it—a patch of tall, pampas grass, standing proud between the asphalt and parked cars. I couldn’t help but grin at them and ask, “Do you trust me?” They chuckled, said “of course,” and without hesitation followed me straight into the middle of that grass. Spoiler alert: it was absolutely worth it.
But the truth is, the photo isn’t even my favorite part of that moment. What really stuck with me was what happened right before. Elena and Jeremy told me they trusted me—not just with the photo in that exact second, but with their story, their love, their memories. They told me how much they appreciated me as their photographer and how much they enjoyed working with me. (The feeling is mutual, by the way. Very mutual 🥹).
Maybe they feel this way because we’ve already had the chance to do a “just for fun” session together before their engagement photos. Or maybe it’s just who they are. Because Elena and Jeremy are the kind of people who radiate joy everywhere they go. They’re bubbly, easygoing, and so incredibly kind. Being with them feels like spending time with lifelong friends. And in Elena’s case—that’s not just a saying, because I’ve known her since preschool!
What I loved most about their session wasn’t just the beautiful Northwestern campus, or the golden light we got that evening (though both were amazing). It was the way Elena and Jeremy bring out the best in each other. The way they laugh easily. The way they go with the flow, trusting the process, and making every moment fun. Their love is effortless, genuine, and so full of light.
Elena & Jeremy, thank you for letting me tag along on this part of your journey. You’re a perfect reminder to us all: say yes to adventure, laugh a lot, and trust the people who care about you—even if it means stepping into a random patch of grass. 😉
And lucky me, I don’t have to wait long to celebrate with you again. This week, we get to do it all over again for your big day!
