This Shelburne Farms engagement session was a photographer’s dream—lovers in golden light and golden fields? Yes, please!

Remember when I said that photography has brought people back into my life? Emily is a friend from high school who reached out after proposing to her girlfriend, Brittany.

We spent the evening picnicking, taking selfies, and sipping local beer in the Shelburne Farms Formal Gardens (where Emily proposed!), running through golden fields (a photographer’s dream), snapping selfies, and popping champagne in the water!

Starting an Engagement Session

Walking is my favorite way to start a session for so many reasons. First, it gives me time to nail lighting and settings, but it also gets you comfortable in front of a camera. 99% of people start a session saying something along the lines of “We’ve never done this before,” or “Ugh, I’m so awkward in front of a camera!”

Well, it is quite literally my job to help you connect with each other in whatever way feels right to you and your relationship! A pre-session questionnaire is where I start; then, we curate a session based on what is most important to you! For Emily and Brittany, that meant documenting the place. Brittany said, “I do!”.

Shelburne Farms Formal Gardens

Pulling out my little Fujifilm Instax is one of my favorite things to do during a session—who doesn’t love the instant gratification of Polaroids? Plus, taking pictures of you taking pictures is so fun!

Shelburne Farms Engagement on Lake Champlain

After the gardens, we headed to the lake to pop champagne. We lucked out with some cloud coverage, so we could get the mountains, water, and gorgeous light.

After the water, Emily and Brittany did a little outfit change and we headed to the Farm Barn to finish up their session. View the full gallery here!