On a chilly December morning, I met Maddie and Mike at sunrise in downtown Chicago for their engagement photos. Waking up before dawn certainly isn’t for everyone, but these two made it look so easy and effortless.

While planning their session, I asked them what a successful photo experience would look like and they said they wanted their engagement photos to feel like a collection of moments. I really resonated with that.

They didn’t care about the locations at all. There was no big agenda or checklist of we need to do this or go here or have this specific scene in the background. In fact, they gave me total creative freedom.

The only objective was simply to capture their love and boy was that easily done! These two are so sweet to one another. Even on an early morning at sunrise in frigid winter weather, every frame felt so joyful and effortless.

These are just a few from many but I am so in love with these. This session is already an instant favorite of mine!

Sunrise Engagement Photos in Downtown Chicago

A Coffee Date at Venteux

Because it was such a chilly Chicago morning, Maddie, Mike & I decided to venture over to an adorable Parisian-inspired cafe, Venteux, to finish the engagement photo session indoors. We found a table right at the window and I left the couple to have a little morning coffee date together. I shot the majority of these photos from outside on Michigan Avenue and I feel like their chemistry and personalities shined through so naturally. I simply love how all of these turned out! This location added an editorial flair to their photos and I hope to shoot more in this style in the future.

To Maddie and Mike, thank you so much for putting your trust in me for your engagement photos. You guys are the reason I love what I do so much. I can’t wait to work with you again this summer on your wedding day. Cheers!

Get In Touch

If you’d like more information about working together for your own engagement photos or wedding day, I invite you to explore my portfolio and contact me with questions. I’d love to help bring your vision to life!