Summer engagement sessions are in full swing. I’ve traveled past the Dubuque Mines of Spain Recreational Area countless times. Never have I stopped by to check it out though. When talking with my wedding couple Í and J, who are based out of Iowa City, I suggested this as a great midway point for us. I saw amazing photos online from previous photographers and knew I needed to shoot there too.

Í and J are an amazing couple and it was such a joy getting to know them better. I learned J has a podcast that goes into movies in-depth and discusses the plot, social meaning, impact on the viewer, etc. I also consider myself a cinephile, so we hit it off right away and I’ve actually listened to several of his podcasts on my drives! My fave was when he had his lovely lady on the show. She is originally from Brazil and speaks English fluently with her wonderful accent. The two of them have such a fun dynamic, I can’t wait for their wedding ceremony and hear all about their Fourth of July trip to the family cabin in Texas.

As for the shoot, the Mines of Spain rests overlooking the great Mississippi River with scenic bluffs and trails. We started off on the Horseshoe trail and soon found several spots where these two could shine. They were playful and up to trying anything to make the shot-gotta love that! We ended at the Julien Dubuque Monument, which stands where Iowa was first settled. I definitely won’t wait 10+ years to stop by this area next time!

Over the past few weeks here in early summer I had the great honor of working with two different couples, shooting at majestic Devil's Lake State Park. I forget how blessed we are in Madison to have access to such beauty just a short drive away. From the budding colors of green to the splendid tapestry of colors that fall brings.

The lovely couples brought their own story, one that inspires those who have loved once can find it again. The other has been high school sweethearts and is continuing that journey together. We started off hiking up with full vigor and strength on the South Shore up the large boulder trail, talking and learning their separate stories. There are just so many spots to stop along the way that are picturesque, that I could stay there all day. 

Couples respond and react uniquely, so I was fortunate to work with two who wanted to be adventurous with the shots. Hats off to you guys, the photos rocked and so did your attitude. The nice part of reaching the summit is there is a lovely flat area with a canopy of trees that has a peaceful aura to it. It's the perfect spot for those couples to get super-close and show their love. 

I'll definitely be back here again I'm sure, with more couples and more stories of their journey together. Each one does hold a special place in my heart. Now I can't wait for my fall sessions there!

Ciao

I was contacted the morning we received our first significant snowfall in the Madison area. The lovely C was wanting a couple's maternity photo session with her husband, and she wanted to use this beautiful snowfall while the time was right. She and her husband were all smiles, laughs and more. I couldn't ask for a lovelier and nicer couple to work with. Towards the end of the session, there is a nice wooded area where I was looking to shoot and we were able to catch some photobombers (deer) in the shot!