Emma and Nick are truly one of those couples that stick with you — the kind you instantly click with and feel grateful to be part of their story. Emma first reached out last February, and from the very first inquiry call, we completely hit it off. Not only did we connect over photography and creativity (Emma is an artist at heart and loves painting), but we quickly realized we were basically neighbors in the Capitol Hill area.

Instead of waiting until their session to meet for the first time, we did something a little rare — we met up at our neighborhood coffee spot Wine & Butter with Nick to connect in person. It was so refreshing to sit down, chat, laugh, and get to know each other without a camera in hand. Those moments of real connection are what make photographing couples feel so effortless later on.

For their engagement session before the big day, they knew they wanted something whimsical and romantic. I found out that Emma and I are both avid fantasy readers and love to escape into magical worlds and a mystical plot. Drawn to the surreal, garden fairy-core style, we were looking for a location that emulated that feeling. Dumbarton Oaks Gardens was the perfect choice — with its grand architecture woven into lush, overgrown gardens, winding paths made for wandering, and a rich romantic history rooted in a love for beauty and art. It created the ideal setting for their own lived in fantasy to unfold.

Because we got to know each other first, the engagement session felt like true collaboration. It makes a huge difference when couples trust the vision and are willing to get creative with poses and lighting. With a little guidance and lots of natural movement, their session felt relaxed, fun, and full of genuine connection — exactly what we hoped it would be.

Emma and Nick’s session was such a beautiful reflection of who they are — romantic, playful, deeply connected, and full of love. I feel so lucky to walk alongside couples like them during such meaningful seasons of life and can’t wait to celebrate alongside them at their wedding!