Chris & Cassidy’s Engagement at Art Hill: A Porsche, Champagne, and a Beautiful Morning in Forest Park
Looking back at the gallery, what we created feels like a small European elopement. The clean lines of the museum steps, the symmetry of the Art Hill backdrop, and the elegance of the early morning light gave everything that timeless, old-world atmosphere.
When Chris first reached out, I could tell he had a clear vision. He mentioned wanting something natural but refined, photojournalistic in style with a bit of polish. We set up a phone call, and right away, I knew this was going to be a special session.
Planning the Experience
Chris and Cassidy were intentional about everything, from location to styling. We decided on Art Hill and the Saint Louis Art Museum (SLAM) area. Those stone steps and grand columns always bring a sense of elegance, and in the early morning light, it almost feels like being in Europe.
We aimed for a weekday morning to avoid crowds and take advantage of the soft, golden light. Cassidy worked with Ashley Faith, a professional makeup artist based here in St. Louis that morning to get ready, and they arrived looking incredible. Stylish but relaxed, ready to enjoy the morning together.
They even brought accessories, like sunglasses and a cooler bag packed with champagne and glasses!
When the bubbly hits and everything starts to feel like a movie. Art Hill, Forest Park, St. Louis MO
The Morning of the Shoot
Working with them felt effortless. The Porsche was already in place when we started, gleaming in the soft morning light like it belonged there. Right away, it set the tone. We eased into the session with some quiet moments around the museum and the hill, letting Chris and Cassidy walk, talk, and simply be themselves. The car wasn’t just a prop, it was part of the story, adding a classic, personally meaningful touch to the entire feel of the shoot.
Effortlessly stylish in the driver’s seat… timeless car, timeless love.
When the champagne came out, the energy shifted in the best way. They popped the bottle, poured glasses, toasted each other, and started to laugh more freely. It wasn’t staged. It felt like a real celebration, and I was lucky to be there to capture it all unfolding naturally.
Champagne popped, laughter followed. This is what celebration looks like.
The Results and the Feeling Behind Them
The gallery tells the story better than I ever could. There’s elegance, romance, style, but also real connection.
Looking back at the gallery, what we created feels like a small European elopement. The clean lines of the museum steps, the symmetry of the Art Hill backdrop, and the elegance of the early morning light gave everything that timeless, old-world atmosphere.
The photos feel like they could have been taken in Paris or Rome, that mix of romance and sophistication, but with a relaxed, modern energy. There’s a story in every frame. Some are quiet and candid, others feel straight out of a fashion magazine. That blend is exactly what we were going for, a photojournalistic approach with an editorial edge.
Chris and Cassidy brought such strong presence to the session, but they also let themselves be in the moment. That’s a big part of why these images work, they weren’t performing for the camera. They were enjoying the experience together, and the photos reflect that.
The Black & White Edits Hit Differently
There’s a section of the gallery that’s entirely black and white, and honestly, they feel like a story all on their own. Removing the color shifts the focus to light, form, and expression. The lines of the car, the architecture, it all becomes more cinematic and timeless in black and white.
These edits give the session a classic, almost documentary feel that looks like it was pulled from a 1960s wedding album in Italy.
More Than Just Photos
I’m truly grateful Chris and Cassidy trusted me to help shape this moment for them. They brought intention and enthusiasm, but also flexibility and ease, and that combination made the whole process such a joy.
This session was a reminder that great engagement photos aren’t about perfection. They’re about preparation and vision, yes, but also about showing up as yourselves and letting real moments unfold. Whether you bring a classic car or just the person you love, what matters is that it reflects you.
Chris and Cassidy, thank you again. It was a joy and a privilege to be part of this morning with you.
The way she leans into him says everything.
Thinking about your own engagement session?
Let’s talk about your ideas and build something that feels true to you. Reach out here and we’ll start planning.