Ryan and I love to travel and we have so many memories that are grounded (pardon the pun) in specific places. In fact, there are several spots that – the minute we drive up – we’re flooded with that sense of place, special moments that we remember, and those we hope to make in the years to come. From your grandmother’s backyard to certain mountain trails, family summer spots or just favorite views – places matter to all of us maybe more than we realize until we’re there. Capturing clients in those locations for photo shoots is important and we love how those places are a character in your personal stories.

All of these engagement portraits were taken at specifically chosen spots…. places not chosen by us, but by the couples – and for a reason. We always ask our brides and grooms a series of questions about themselves and several of them relate to how and where they met, where they like to spend time together, and which places in their lives communicate who they are. It not only serves the practical purpose of planning, but tells us so much about our subjects.
Maddie & Preston both grew up and went to school in Jefferson NC, and this barn is a testament to their love of home.

Above: Generations of the Kessel family worked in and are credited with the restoration of Loray Mill in Gastonia. Christine and Adam wanted their portraits taken at the Mill.

Michelle and Randy grew up beside each other – seriously. Their family farms were separated by fields and this fence line. 

Kendra and Nathan love visiting NC wineries in their spare time. The Piccione Vineyards were a perfect spot for their engagement portraits. A picnic? YESSSS!!!

Katie & Tim both met and worked together at The Biltmore Estate in Asheville and wandering around with them and their sweet pup for this portrait session was a blast!

Kathren loves these old trees on the property of her Grandmother’s home where both she and Nathan live. The sense of place and memory in trees like this one make portraits into heirlooms.

Finally – this. My heart could explode when I look at this place. Our home. The home I share with my partner in business, my partner in life and the sweet child we are raising together. Our clients, friends and family have graced that porch, those rooms and the surrounding yards and garden. Talk about grounding. This does it for me. Hence the reason for having our family photographed on the front porch.

Photo by: Suzie Guerrant Photography

When you’re considering a photo shoot – whether it’s for an engagement portrait session, a family reunion, a special milestone – do NOT be afraid to consider the places that matter to you the most. They may not feel or seem glamorous or sophisticated or even perfectly manicured, but the results will make you sooooooooooooo happy in both the short and long run.