Stephanie & Carl | Lifestyle Engagement Photographer

Earlier this summer we planned a backyard engagement session for Stephanie and Carl at their home in New York. Not knowing what the weather or the autumn leaves would be like, we ended up with the most incredible autumn day and their yard was a perfect backdrop for this seasonal engagement shoot. The leaves and colors were so spectacular that I didn’t want to make as many black and white photos as I usually do. I first met Stephanie and Carl when I was the photographer for her sister Ashley’s wedding a few years ago. I remember that Stephanie and her family were so warm and welcoming; so much so that I felt as if I were a part of the bridal party. My most vibrant memory of Stephanie is how much fun she had with her dad on the dance floor. So when Stephanie reached out to plan her engagement session I knew that we were in for some fun. We started the afternoon with Carl’s vintage Ford tractor, a tractor that he repaired himself back in high school. After the work day is through, Stephanie told me that they often go for a spin in their yard. We wanted to include these beautiful moments into their session. Personal stories such as this is what makes a photo shoot truly memorable and meaningful. 

When planning an engagement session, I always suggest a casual and more formal outfit or location. Having variety is so important and it gives you more to choose from when making save-the-dates, thank you cards, and even holiday greetings. I always advise my couples to choose a place that is meaningful as well as beautiful. The result is that you have photographs that are more than just lovely, they’re also deeply personal and significant to your relationship and who you are as a couple. Stephanie and Carl’s engagement was exactly that. 

After taking photos with their old Ford, we took photographs by their barn, with their chickens (raising chickens is on my future wish list so as a photographer I was in heaven), and their dog, Murphy, who wore a handsome bow for the occasion. The drone images featured in this post are by Worlds of Discovery. Then we ventured to Carl’s family home and his family’s Auto Repair Shop in town, both places that are also meaningful to Carl and now for Stephanie too. Downtown Warick is beautiful, especially this time of year and it was the perfect place to conclude their engagement session. 

Congratulations, Carl and Stephanie! I am looking forward to photographing your wedding next year! 

Please leave some well wishes for Stephanie and Carl in the comments below! See more on Instagram @LiveLovelyPhotography.