There’s something about summer evenings in Boise’s Hyde Park that feels straight out of a storybook. The warm air, the golden light spilling through the trees, and the vibrant energy of the North End—it’s the perfect setting for an engagement session that captures both romance and playfulness. When Claire and Ben reached out about their engagement photos, we decided to spend an entire day creating memories together. The result? A gallery that’s equal parts nostalgic, classic, and whimsical—a perfect reflection of their love story.

Coffee and Strolls Through Hyde Park

We kicked off the afternoon at Hyde Perk Coffee House around 4:30 PM. The cozy interior of the cafe was the perfect backdrop for capturing Claire and Ben in their element. Sitting across from each other in a snug booth, they laughed over lattes, exchanged knowing glances, and shared a few inside jokes. There’s something magical about capturing couples in spaces that feel like an extension of their everyday lives, and Hyde Perk was just that for these two.

After finishing our coffee, we stepped outside for a leisurely stroll through the North End. The quaint neighborhood shops and tree-lined streets created the dreamiest setting for romantic portraits. We played with reflections in shop windows, captured moments under glowing streetlights, and even stopped at a crosswalk for a playful shot. Claire’s flowing sundress and Ben’s relaxed vibe brought the whole scene to life.

Cocktails and Pool at The Royal Bar

Next, we wandered over to The Royal Bar before it got too busy. This spot brought a fun twist to the session with its dim lighting and laid-back charm. Claire and Ben clinked cocktail glasses over the bar while I snapped away, capturing their easy chemistry.

The highlight? A series of epic pool table shots where their personalities shone—Claire’s competitive streak and Ben’s playful teasing made for candid, dynamic photos that felt like a peek into one of their many fun date nights.

Sweet Moments at Goodies

To add a little sweetness to the day, we made our way to their childhood favorite candy store, Goody’s for some ice cream. This part of the session was pure fun. With a delicious malted milkshake, Claire and Ben leaned into the playful energy of the candy shop. We captured them sitting at the counter, enjoying their ice cream, and even attempting to tie cherry stems into knots—cue the laughter. Goodies’ colorful, nostalgic vibe was the perfect backdrop for their vibrant connection.

Golden Hour and City Vibes Downtown

Then, we did a quick outfit change and transitioned our day shoot to night! We walked along Main Street, stopping for spontaneous shots along the way. From romantic moments against historic Idaho brick buildings to playful interactions in the middle of the street, this stretch of the session felt like an ode to their love for exploring life together.

We eventually made our way to Ocho’s Cocktail & Wine Bar, where the ambiance shifted to a moody, vintage vibe. With a flash in hand, I captured edgy, dramatic shots of Claire and Ben perched on top of the bar table and laughing in a corner booth. These images felt like a glimpse into an old-school love story with a modern twist.

Vintage Vibes at Pengilly’s Saloon

Our next stop was Pengilly’s Saloon, a downtown gem with a vintage western vibe that added so much character to the session. As we walked in, the cozy, old-world western charm of the bar set the tone. There was a live band playing, which brought a vibrant energy to the space, and Claire and Ben wasted no time grabbing beers and settling into the moment. We captured a second round of amazing pool table shots here, but this time with a rustic twist—the dim lighting, wooden accents, and live music made these photos feel like they belonged in a classic western romance. Their laughter and connection lit up the room, making this part of the session one to remember.

A Buzzing Finale

To end the night on a high note, we headed to The Highlander for a final round of cocktails. The moody lighting and chic interiors added a sophisticated edge to the last set of portraits. By this point, we were all buzzing from the energy of the day (and maybe the cocktails, too). Claire and Ben’s love for each other was infectious, and it was clear they’d had just as much fun as I had capturing these moments.

The Result: A Timeless Love Story

Claire and Ben’s engagement session was everything I could have hoped for as a photographer: full of laughter, intimate moments, and a touch of whimsy. The final gallery tells the story of a couple deeply in love, unafraid to be themselves, and ready to take on life’s adventures together. I can’t wait to see how their next chapter unfolds!