Winter engagement sessions hold a special kind of magic, and Kate & Dan’s session in Lake Forest was no exception! Despite the blustery cold, these two embraced every moment with joy, laughter and love. Their engagement session at Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve, along the stunning Lake Michigan shoreline, overflowed with warmth, even on the chilliest of days.

Kate and Dan traveled from Michigan the night before, bringing their adorable dogs, Kember & Bess, for the adventure. I’m incredibly grateful they made the trip. Their happy energy was contagious. We explored the beautiful lakeside bluffs, capturing moments that reflected their connection and playfulness.

Throughout their session, their deep love and partnership stood out. They support each other’s passions, embrace their differences and have built a relationship rooted in mutual respect and playfulness. Their love for their dogs is just as strong! Kember & Bess added even more personality and spontaneity to the shoot. Some of my favorite moments were the ‘bloopers’—especially when Bess may or may not have knocked both of them over! Kate & Dan appreciated those just as much as the rest of the gallery, which made me love working with them even more.

Lake Forest Winter Engagement Photos

After receiving their gallery, Kate shared the sweetest words:

“ASHLEY!!! Wow. Holy cow. Just watched the video for the second time and we had the best time looking through all 240 (!!!) pictures. We are so happy and amazed. THANK YOU so so so much!!! We’ve never done anything like this before, but you captured who we are, our personalities, and even our dogs perfectly. Every picture makes me smile 🙂 Just so happy and grateful to have these moments captured forever!”

Kate & Dan, your kind words mean the world to me! Capturing your engagement photos was an absolute joy and I cannot wait to be there for your wedding in Michigan this summer! Thank you for trusting me to document this special season of your lives—I can’t wait for what’s next!

If you’re looking for a Lake Forest engagement session (with or without adorable dogs), let’s chat! Reach out here to start planning your own engagement photos.