The engagement period is a special time for couples, and in the midst of the whirlwind that is wedding planning, taking some time away from all the craziness to just be with each other for an engagement session can be incredibly meaningful. These photos will be cherished mementos of this important phase in your relationship.

Consider finding a photographer who can beautifully capture the bond you both share as you approach this significant milestone. Someone who can present the essence of your relationship as a couple and is able to showcase it beautifully to others.

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This couple’s laid-back downtown Ottawa engagement photo session can only be described as effortless, relaxed, and simply fun — because that’s who they are. This bride’s infectious laugh and the groom’s innate ability to evoke it, added to the joyful energy. Throughout our session together, they were not shy about making jokes. Some of which included sarcastic comments about attempting to body-check one another, which made for genuine laughter and beautifully authentic candid photos.

Our evening engagement session began at the elegant Chateau Laurier, which made for an exquisite backdrop due to the impressive architecture. From there, we walked down the stone steps around the building, reaching the side terrace. The terrace, making the perfect spot to capture them with the Parliament buildings framing the skyline, complemented by the flow of the Ottawa river, encapsulating the city’s beauty. All of this combined with a very sunny evening made for a great opportunity to take some film photos. Film was especially welcomed during this session.

Incorporating film has been rising in popularity over the last few years and is a medium that I am more than happy to incorporate. Beyond the terrace, I captured the couple along the hillside of Major’s Hill Park, where the lush greenery provided a striking contrast to the urban landscape, snapping moments of them pulling each other along — as is apparently typical of their relationship when at a shopping mall.

Heading towards Sparks Street, running hand in hand across the bustling crosswalk, they stopped in front of buildings resembling streets somewhere in Europe. While they were posing, onlookers nearby started cheering them on. A perk (or downfall, maybe) of having your engagement session in downtown

As we made our way to the Canal, we unintentionally bumped into the same onlookers in a peaceful space amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. Here, we decided to pause and photograph a more serious side of this couple against the railing where gold-shimmering water flowed beneath.

Returning to the Chateau Laurier, we concluded with dancing—twirling, spinning, and practicing some dips for their first dance in the upcoming months. Finally, our groom, still learning the ropes, enthusiastically popped the champagne which luckily didn’t spray any bystanders, but did come out with a bang. Once champagne was poured, they eagerly raised their glasses and toasted to their future together and a fun evening. Our couple wrapped up their session with a high-five, smiling from ear to ear.

No matter where you decide to hold your engagement session in Ottawa, there are numerous opportunities to create lasting memories. If you’re seeking an editorial and documentary style photographer who values you as an individual and sees beauty in the imperfect, your search ends here. Whether you’re looking for a downtown setting, need to showcase your brand, or wish to capture the essence of exceptional interior design, please visit my contact page to discuss arranging a shoot.