As a photogrtapher, I absolutely love discovering a new location and immediately seeing all of its possibilities. As a human, I love nothing more than meeting people full of joy.

On a beautiful May evening, I met Jennie and Aaron for their engagement session at Prospect Terrace Park in Providence, a place I had never visited before despite photographing all over Rhode Island for years. As I walked through the neighborhood and climbed toward the overlook, I felt that familiar spark that photographers chase. The soft light filtering through the trees, the quiet streets lined with charming homes, the layers of the city unfolding below from the hilltop, every turn seemed to offer another beautiful backdrop. This place was so meaningful to them because this is where Aaron proposed to Jennie on a cold winter day last February!

By the end of the evening, I had already decided that Prospect Terrace Park had earned a permanent spot on my recommendation list!

But as gorgeous as the location was, the real magic came from the two people standing in front of my camera.

Jennie and Aaron describe their relationship as quiet, strong, and selfless, and after spending an hour with them, I couldn’t think of three more accurate words. Their connection lives in the small things: sharing coffee, going on hikes, reading side by side, watching television together, and finding adventure in ordinary moments.

One of my favorite answers from their questionnaire was when they described something meaningful they do together. “Couch time,” they called it. Each doing their own activity, but together. There is something incredibly beautiful about that kind of companionship, the kind that doesn’t demand constant attention, but simply finds comfort in presence. I can totally relate to that!

Their love story began online, though they soon discovered they shared many mutual friends. Like many strong relationships, theirs has been shaped not only by happy moments but also by the challenges they have faced individually and together. Through previous struggles and vulnerabilities, they have learned to let each other in, building a relationship grounded in trust and support.

They describe themselves as “introverted extroverts,” but I think they both showed their extrovet side. There were moments of quiet tenderness, soft embraces, and soulful looks, followed immediately by laughter… they were funny and engaged (pun intended), and that made my job very easy.

And then there was the car.

Aaron brought his antique car to the session, and it was the cherry on top of an already perfect evening. Parked beneath the trees with the beautiful city of Providence in the background, it added so much personality and character to the photographs. Paired with Jennie’s flowing dress and the warm evening light, the entire scene felt almost cinematic. It didn’t feel like a prop at all. It felt like a piece of their story.

As someone who photographs couples often, I can tell you that the best sessions are rarely about perfect poses or beautiful locations. They’re about creating space for people to simply be themselves. Jennie and Aaron had never experienced a professional photoshoot before, but they arrived trusting the process, willing to laugh, willing to be playful, and willing to simply enjoy an evening together. Engagement sessions freeze a chapter that passes so quickly, the anticipation, the excitement, the dreaming, and the simple joy of knowing your future person is standing beside you.

Next May, these two will say “I do” at Crystal Lake Golf Club, one of my favorite wedding venues in Rhode Island. If their engagement session, full of joy, laughter, quiet moments, and genuine connection, is any indication of what their wedding day will feel like, I already know I am in for a treat.

Jennie and Aaron, thank you for trusting me with your story. I cannot wait to celebrate with you again next spring.