This session felt like a love letter to summer in New England. Golden light filtering through the trees, warm air settling over the hills, and two people who feel like pure ease when they’re together.
Stacey and Colin invited me to photograph their engagement session at the Skyline Trail in Blue Hills Reservation, just outside of Quincy, MA. A place already woven into their story in the best ways. It’s one of their favorite hikes, one they’ve done together many times. It’s also the spot where they shared their very first kiss (and yes, we recreated that moment while we were here – scroll to the end to see it 🥹).
Being there with them felt like I was stepping into a memory.
From best friends to soulmates
Before they were ever a couple, Stacey and Colin were best friends… for fifteen years. They’ve supported each other through everything: breakups (yes, you read that right… they were cheering each other on through past relationships before they ever started dating), big moves, grad school, medical scares, career changes, and late-night ER visits. They’re the kind of couple who’s been through it all, and somehow come out stronger, funnier, and more in sync than ever.
They told me their nights usually end in the sweetest way: Colin reading a book while Stacey plays a video game, quiet and together. Right before falling asleep, they make it a point to always tell each other what they’re grateful for. A reminder, as they put it, that they’re two fortunate people (excuse me while I go cry over how wholesome this is).
Their relationship is the perfect balance of relaxed, steady, and full of laughter, and documenting it felt like the biggest honor.
A location that already had their hearts
I always encourage my couples to choose a session location that means something to them. This location couldn’t have been more perfect for Colin and Stacey. Not only is Blue Hills Reservation one of their favorite places to hike, but like I mentioned earlier, it’s also where they shared their very first kiss.
At one point during the session, they sat in the exact spot where it happened. The sun was dipping low behind the trees, the breeze had settled, and they just… paused. No distractions. Just them, watching the sunset, soaking in the moment, and sharing another kiss right there.
It was quiet. And so full of meaning.
Thoughtful touches that made this session theirs
Stacey brought along a piece of her family’s history. Her mom’s traditional wedding reception kaftan to honor that part of her legacy. She surprised her parents by wearing it for part of the session, and it was such a beautiful way to honor her roots. Colin coordinated with a soft Indian-style top and boots, and together they looked effortlessly cool.
Later, they changed into something more casual and “them”, which felt like the perfect way to round out the evening.
And because books are a big part of their life (hello, end-of-day reading routine), they each brought a favorite along to incorporate. Just one more subtle way to layer their story into the session.
Why they chose me (and why I’m so grateful they did)
Stacey and Colin first found me through Zola, and when they reached out, they told me this:
“We loved that the couples in your photos looked so genuinely in love. The couples looked like they genuinely liked each other, looked relaxed, and we could feel their chemistry through the pictures. Other photographers’ pictures seemed kind of staged or cheesy, while yours made the couples look very natural and effortless. We also liked the lighting/editing on the pictures, and your skill at being able to capture people in outdoor spaces.”
I mean… that’s the goal. Every. Single. Time.
Planning your own outdoor engagement session?
If you’re dreaming of something meaningful and relaxed. Something that feels like you, I’m always going to be in your corner. Whether it’s hiking through your favorite trail, cooking breakfast at home, or chasing light along the coast, your story deserves to be told in a way that feels real.
If you’re looking for a Massachusetts wedding photographer, planning a hike for your engagement session, or just want someone who sees the beauty in the little things, let’s make some magic.
Reach out, and let’s plan something meaningful together!
