New Buffalo Winter Engagement
It was a surreal winter day in January as I got ready to photograph Jess and Javi’s New Buffalo winter engagement session in Michigan. These Chicago natives wanted this small beach town because they often visit it in the warm, summer months (Michigan’s best time of year). We had a limited time to choose a date for their engagement session so we embraced the snow!
We began at Journeyman’s Distillery which you can actually rent out on an hourly basis during the off-season which was a perfect place to start! It allowed me to show them a few poses in a warm, industrial setting before we would venture out to the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Don’t you just love the windows at Journeyman? I could not get over them! Please give me all the natural light possible without adding fluorescent lighting so I can make sure their skin tones are perfect, the poses are fun and light, and I’m focused more on them than on camera settings. It really allows me to focus on the best posing, how to figure out what makes Jess and Javi comfortable in front of the camera, and bring out their natural smiles and love!
After we enjoyed the warmth, we went to Warren Dunes State Park which, oddly enough, isn’t full of people and crowds and tourists because of the cold! It was a huge perk so we could go wherever we wanted without worrying about being in the way or Jess and Javi feeling self-conscious because too many people were around.
Ryker, their 6-month-old puppy joined us in her adorableness and hopefully, she will be as well behaved on their wedding day in May! Don’t worry, she got lots of extra treats for her good behavior!
Click Here to see their wedding day blog!
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Timeless & Thoughtful Photographer
Hi, I’m Stephanie—a wedding photographer passionate about capturing love stories with authenticity and artistry. With years of experience, I blend a hands-on approach with a keen eye for genuine moments. Whether it’s a grand celebration or an intimate elopement, I’m here to document your day in a way that feels effortless, elevated, and uniquely you. From the joyful in-between moments to the carefully planned details, I strive to create timeless images that you’ll cherish forever. Let’s make something beautiful together!
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I’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re planning a wedding, engagement session, or an intimate elopement, I’m here to capture your story with authenticity and care. Reach out to inquire about availability, learn more about my process, or just say hello! Fill out my contact form, and I’ll be in touch within 48 hours. Let’s create something beautiful together!
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