Photography isn’t always about capturing a perfectly curated and posed moment. It’s about pivoting and telling YOUR story – however it unfolds.

And that’s how we ended up with this truly amazing editorial inspired session for Alexis and Taylor’s LGBTQ+ engagement photos in Downtown Springfield! 

Originally Taylor had wanted me to photograph her proposing to Alexis.

However, Alexis beat her to it and Taylor literally could not wait any longer and proposed the day Alexis’ ring arrived! The two had a picnic in the park when Taylor popped the question.

So we adjusted our plans and ended up with this engagement session instead (I’m definitely not complaining!).

When you’re in love with your best friend, every day feels like Valentine’s day, and these two definitely delivered all the feelings!

Editorial LGBTQ+ Engagement Photos in Downtown Springfield

Our session took place in Downtown Springfield, a truly amazing spot for SO MANY reasons.

It gives those city vibes without all the traffic you’d find in Chicago.

Check out my article on some of the best places to take photos in Springfield for more inspo on this! 

Like y’all, this is in a parking lot!! I love this spot.

As an LGBTQ+ friendly photographer, I love giving my clients high-end photos that authentically document their love for each other. Taylor and Alexis were serving the best editorial vibes for their chic and moody urban session.

Taylor looked flawless in her a-line rhinestone mini dress, while Alexis pulled off a classy neutral suit. Each wore matching light blue shoes to add a subtle pop of color to complete their looks, and WOW did it work!

Taylor asked me “Is a veil too much, for engagement photos???”

I was like- “Absolutely not!!!”

We worked our way around Downtown Springfield, adding in a veil, sunglasses, and red roses to the mix. The props really brought those editorial vibes to the session.

They both wore blue shoesssss!!! Love love love.

Dreamy photos were taken, laughter was shared, and we eventually ended the night with flash portraits to add some mood and drama to the mix!

Flash fun was had! It wasn’t actually that dark outside yet, but when a girl knows her camera settings, anything is possible.

Just a reminder… this is not Chicago, but Springfield, IL!!!

Why Engagement Photos Are So Important

After your engagement you may be thinking, “But Rachael, WHY do we need engagement photos if we’re already doing wedding photos?”

Great question! I recommend any engaged couple to get engagement photos before their wedding day (ideally with their hired wedding photographer if possible) for a few reasons…

• To meet your photographer before your wedding day. You’ll be able to talk and put a face to the name of the person you hired for one of your biggest days ever!
• To get comfortable with your photographer and their approach to posing and photographing your day. 
• To gain confidence in front of the camera before the full day of wedding portraits. After your engagement session you’ll understand phrases and prompts that your photographer will use so you’ll be able to feel comfortable and confident through it all!

I had SO much fun with Alexis and Taylor. Hands down this engagement session will be a memory that sticks with me throughout the years! Between Taylor’s heart on her sleeve personality and Alexis’ calm and trusting presence, some jaw dropping, beautiful photos were inevitable.

These two are a perfect match and I’m honored to have been their third wheel for the night!

Okay but here is when I said “wait okay I promise just one more??”

Because if I have a chance to make magic with my plastic bag- I am going to do it!!

Yes, you read that right. A plastic bag.

If you’re engaged or currently planning your LGBTQ+ wedding, take a tumble down the blog for a deeper look into my work and wedding tips!

Feel free to contact me with any and all questions regarding setting up your day!