trey + jamie • klyde warren park • dallas, tx

I was excited to photograph Trey + Jamie's engagement session after speaking with Jamie on the phone- knowing already that they were fun, easygoing people who were excited for photos. Then the SNOWPOCALYPSE happened. 

Trey + Jamie had planned to drive into Lubbock for their session from Irving, but Dallas got dumped on that weekend. We kept thinking that it couldn't be as bad as the reports were saying, but over time, we realized it was actually worse! So, we rescheduled.

Thankfully, Shawn and I had plans to be in Dallas just a few weeks later and there we were able to shoot their Engagement session in the new (albeit freezing) Klyde Warren Park. It was cold. So cold I couldn't feel my fingers at times. I'm sure they were colder than I was. But they played to off so well, and I'm so thankful for these two enthusiastic people. Thanks so much for a great session, guys!

taylor + bailey • engagement • lubbock, tx

I have to admit, right before this shoot I got super nervous...I'd met Taylor and Bailey a few months ago for the first time and after spending a little time with them, I SO wanted to shoot their engagement photos. They are so. much. fun. These two are laid-back, artsy (Bailey just got back from a glass blowing class-really?!? Awesome!), and stylish...what if I wasn't able to capture all the cool-ness?

Thankfully, they trusted me, and all the unusual places I wanted to take them. A wig shop? Sure, ok.... 

Also, I have to note Bailey's engagement ring that she designed herself. It might be the coolest thing I've ever seen- a RAW diamond encased in a gold square....fabulous. 

I had a great time with them and only selected 74 favorites from the session...so this is literally the "narrowed-down" version. Enjoy this fun couple!

chris + amanda • engagement • lubbock, tx

I met with Chris and Amanda for a morning Engagement Session last week. Ahhhh, how I love morning sessions. It's usually cooler and the sun is shining a pretty, clean light allowing us different locations to shoot than in the evening. We had a great time and made stops at some very sentimental places for them- including the place where they first met and where Chris proposed. These two are so sweet with each other- and just seem to know each other so well. Enjoy!

justin + layne • engagement • amarillo, tx

I can't believe I just photographed Laynie's engagement session! Layne is my sister, who just got engaged to Justin, if you are just now getting caught up. We wandered around downtown Amarillo and then headed out to the farmhouse- a home located waaay out on my grandparents' farm, where they will be living after they tie the knot. These two did a great job and we had a beautiful day to shoot. One of the first things that I learned about Justin (besides the fact that my sister liked him) was that he does NOT love pictures. Thankfully, he loves my sister. :) And that means he's willing to take a few photos with her. 

I am so honored to get to photograph special moments like this for my family. I have two sisters, and I am so happy to see both of them marrying faithful, fun men of God. Such a blessing for all of us!

Be prepared for a bit of an over-post...

ben + shelby • engagement • lubbock, tx

I feel like I can relate to this couple so much- they have a very similar love story to that of my own. Grew up in the same small town, hung out at church, eventually started dating and years later, they're getting married. This couple is so much fun- relaxed, laughing all the time- great attitudes. I get to photograph Ben and Shelby's wedding in a quaint little chapel this summer and I can't wait! Here are some of my favorites from their session.

We started out at the Holly Hop Ice Cream Shoppe- if you haven't been yet, go! Fun atmosphere and ICE CREAM!

sterling and jessica • engagement • Lubbock, TX

When I first met with Jessica, I felt like we were old friends. She was so easygoing and easy to talk to. I am so excited to be a part of their intimate wedding next month! It was pretty much freezing the day of their engagement shoot, so we made the most of it- starting it out at the Arrogant Texan. If you haven't been here- go! It is the cutest little space and offers up all sorts of goodies from candy to ice cream and coffee. 

Jessica has got to be one of the nicest people I've ever met. Seriously. And Sterling is quite fun to be around- I enjoyed listening to all of his stories and watching his sense of humor play off of Jessica's. They were such troopers- all of our hands were pink from the cold by the time we were through, and yet I love so many of the images- totally worth it! Here are some of my favorites:

what to wear to your engagement session (brides, this one's for you!

Want to guarantee a great Engagement Session? Trust me and read below!

What you wear to your Engagement Session is important for several reasons- of course you want to look your best, but you also want to feel great in what you're wearing. Here are some tips I've accumulated over the years:

1. Select clothing that compliments each other in color, but does not match exactly.

Long gone are the days of couples in matching shirts. When you're selecting color, think about the colors that compliment each other. Stick with warm tones (reds, oranges, yellows, browns) or cool tones (blues, grays, purples). Or go mostly neutral with some bright accents! There are no hard and fast rules here. In general, big, contrasty prints are distracting and unflattering. 

2. Wear clothing that you'd normally be found wearing.

This might seem obvious, but you'd be amazed at the amount of couples who feel like they need to "dress up" for their Engagement Session. Don't worry- we will definitely get some formal pictures of you- it's called your WEDDING DAY. :) Dressing like you normally do (think Girls Day Out and not trip to the grocery store- haha) is very important- because you being comfortable is very important. It's my goal to capture images of you looking like you. Granted, if you is a three-piece suit, then by all means- I want to see it!

3. Layer + Accessorize.

Layers (like jackets, thin tees, and vests) are always a fun way to spice up a look. They are also a great way to add figure-flattering shape. Don't be afraid to sport a colorful peacoat in the winter, or a cool vest over a sundress in the summertime. You can also incorporate big jewelry, scarves, sunglasses and hats for some fun accents. Clothing catalogs like Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie and J. Crew are always great for inspiration.

4. When in doubt, photograph yourself and see what you think!

This may seem silly, but it's what I do when I can't decide if I really like the way something looks. Have someone take a photo of you, so you can get my perspective on the outfit. Amazingly, it does make a difference!

5. Shop your own closet (in advance) and wear clothing that fits.

Most likely, your closet has a trend- whether it be color, or certain type of clothing like mostly jeans or mostly dresses. Pay attention to these things- most likely, those are the items you feel most confident in. This is huge! There's nothing worse than going to the mall hours before your session in a panic, hoping to find something you'll like. More often than not, the items you select last minute are more like the store clerk's personality and less like your own. And, since you haven't worn them for any period of time, you're not guaranteed that they are a good fit on your body. An out-of-place seam, too-tight or too-loose clothing can keep you uncomfortable the entire time.

6. Props.

I do love a good prop if it fits into your lifestyle. I've had couples bring old quilts, navajo blankets, bikes, and board games. If you are coffee drinkers, bring your favorite mugs or if you prefer wine, bring a bottle and we'll toast! 

Thankfully, most every couple I get to work with is already excited about their session- but there is always that uh-oh-I'm-going-to-be-in-front-of-the-camera-won't-this-be-awkward-and-not-fun feeling. Yes, I get that, too- and hopefully it won't be around for long. I know that the best images come when you are able to be yourself and feel comfortable, so I work really hard to make sure that happens. If I haven't already, I'll be sending you a questionnaire prior to your Engagement Session that will give me a good idea of your personality and style, so I can dream up some great plans for your shoot!