An Engagement Session at Elawa Farm in Lake Forest

Elawa Farm is one of my favorite places on the North Shore.

It’s tucked away in Lake Forest, but once you’re in, it feels a little removed from everything else. The gardens, the paths, the old buildings—it all feels lived in, in a way that doesn’t try too hard. I find myself there often, even when I’m not working, which makes photographing there feel a little more special.

Kathryn and Rob wanted something simple for their engagement session. Nothing overly styled, nothing that felt like a production. Just a place that allowed them to be present with each other.

We met just after sunrise on a chilly February morning, and the light was unbelievable. The fields were still frosted over, there was fog sitting low across everything, and then the sun started coming through in these really soft, golden streaks. It all happened pretty quickly, but it was one of those mornings where you know right away it’s going to be good.

We didn’t do much beyond follow that light. Moving through Elawa Farm slowly, stopping when something caught our eye. Kathryn and Rob are very easy together, so it didn’t take much. A little direction here and there, but mostly just letting things happen.

At one point I picked up my film camera and shot a roll without really thinking about it. It felt like the right way to capture that kind of light.

Sessions like this are always a reminder that you don’t need a lot. A good location, a little bit of time, and the willingness to slow down.

With their wedding planned on the North Shore this year, it felt like a really natural place to start.

If you’re thinking about an engagement session, Elawa Farm is always a good idea.