Lana + Chris Engagement

Last weekend I got to spend the afternoon with the sweetest couple, Chris and Lana, for their engagement session in Raleigh—and y’all, they were total troopers! The weather definitely kept us on our toes. It was one of those summer days where the sky couldn’t quite make up its mind—clouds, sun, rain, more rain, and then surprise! More sun. But with a little patience and a lot of flexibility, we ended up with such a dreamy set of photos.

We started at the WRAL Azalea Gardens, one of my favorite spots in the city. Even with the off-and-on drizzle, the flowers were showing off and the soft, overcast light gave everything this romantic, glowy vibe. Chris and Lana were so laid-back and just rolled with the day—honestly, you’d never know it was raining ten minutes before half of these shots. The gardens gave us that classic, natural feel they were hoping for, and they were laughing together the whole time. I just love capturing couples who are clearly best friends first.

Since the forecast was being unpredictable (to say the least), we made a little pivot and headed to the NC Museum of Art for part two of their session. It was such a fun contrast! We got to switch things up with some sleek indoor shots that brought a totally different feel—more modern, a little artsy, and honestly, still just as romantic. That mix of locations gave us the best of both worlds, and I’m so glad we did it.

Chris and Lana will be tying the knot next May, and if their wedding day is anything like their engagement session—filled with laughter, flexibility, and all the sweet little moments in between—it’s going to be absolutely beautiful. I’m already counting down the days!

Here’s to the rain not standing a chance when love’s in the picture.