Katie + Philip: Engagement

We had never met Katie and Philip before their engagement session a few weeks ago, so we decided to meet for lunch before getting out the cameras. We really enjoyed getting to know them then, over Panera soup and bread-bowls, and over the course of the afternoon. We started at the church they'll be getting married, in the chapel where Philip proposed, and then moved on to downtown Rockford, along the river. The cold wind, blowing snow, and beautiful winter sunset were a perfect backdrop to capture the joy and care they give one another!



I can nearly guarantee you'll see pictures at this spot from their wedding, too. It was great for pictures! It's a man-made cave in a hill on the grounds of their church that had great light and atmosphere. We'll definitely look to make the short jaunt up to it once again come May.




Really like the light in this one, in the cave entrance...




On to Rockford, by the river.


A favorite, for sure.






Shooting through a Christmas tree with lights on it.




Leandra and I really like a Walt Whitman poem called "Song of the Open Road" because of this quote (which we actually ended up including in our wedding program!):

"I give you my hand!
I give you my love, more precious than money,
I give you myself, before preaching or law;
Shall we stick by each other as long as we live?"

We liked the poem because of the deep devotion it describes; that we should, could, and would stay devotedly at each others' sides throughout our entire lives (and it's also about travelling!). This next picture isn't anything technically fancy, but it captures that same determined devotion, I think...




Katie and Philip, you were both a joy to work with and get to know more! We're so glad you braved the cold with us.

Happy Christmas Eve, everyone!