Autumn scene with pumpkins and hay bales as couple enjoys fall afternoon.

THE DAWES ARBORETUM ENGAGEMENT

If there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that fall engagement sessions are pure magic. And when you have a couple like Maria and Brandon, a stunning location like The Dawes Arboretum, and a perfect autumn day, you get a session that’s just everything—full of love, laughter, and morning glow.  These two are so easygoing, down-to-earth, and full of joy. The kind of couple who just clicks.


First things first: if you’ve never been to The Dawes Arboretum in Newark, Ohio, put it on your list. With miles of winding trails, towering trees, and a variety of landscapes that range from wooded areas to open fields, it’s one of the best spots to enjoy all the beauty that fall has to offer. We were lucky enough to hit it at peak foliage, which meant vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows that made for the most beautiful backdrops.

Maria and Brandon were the perfect pair to highlight the beauty of this incredible setting. From the moment we stepped out of the car, we were surrounded by the sounds of fall—crunching leaves underfoot, the crisp air in our lungs, and the occasional laugh echoing through the trees.

Romantic moment captured in natural park setting with fall foliage and pond in background.
A couple walks along a pathway surrounded by autumn foliage in a romantic outdoor setting.
Black and white photo of two people sharing a playful moment outdoors.
A couple shares an intimate moment beneath yellow fall foliage in a park setting.
Close-up of hands with engagement ring showing a tender moment between two people.
A couple laughs together on a path surrounded by autumn scenery and fallen leaves.
Black and white photograph of two people walking together through a leaf-covered landscape.
A couple shares romantic moments by a serene waterfront setting.
A happy couple shares joyful moments during an autumn outdoor photoshoot.
Two people walk hand in hand along a wooden boardwalk surrounded by evergreen trees.
A couple embraces under yellow autumn leaves in a tender moment.
A romantic moment captured through flowering tree branches against a black and white background.

As we explored the stunning grounds of The Dawes Arboretum, Maria and Brandon were up for anything and everything. From wandering through the colorful fall foliage to stopping by a peaceful pond for some quiet moments, they embraced every spot we came across with so much enthusiasm and ease. It felt less like a photo session and more like a casual day out with old friends—laughing, chatting, and soaking in the beauty around us. Whether we were under the towering trees or strolling down a winding trail, their natural chemistry made every moment feel effortless and fun. It was such a relaxed and joyful experience!


What I love most about fall engagement sessions is that they’re never just about the colors and the crisp air (although let’s be real, that’s a pretty great backdrop). It’s about the connection between the couple. The magic that happens when two people who are madly in love just are—when they’re present in the moment, letting the world fade away around them, and it’s just them.  Maria and Brandon are a perfect example of this. Their connection was clear from every glance, every laugh, every hug. Their session felt like a perfect reflection of their relationship—warm, genuine, full of fun, and just the right amount of lightheartedness. These two are the real deal, and I’m so excited to to capture their wedding day!


Thank you, Maria and Brandon, for letting me capture such a meaningful chapter in your love story!

Close up of an orange pumpkin stem with a diamond engagement ring placed on top.
A couple embraces playfully by a rustic wooden fence in an autumn park setting.
Two people share an intimate moment while sitting on a wooden fence surrounded by fall foliage.
A couple shares a romantic embrace by a wooden fence in a park with autumn leaves.
A couple sits together on stone steps with pumpkins and fall decorations in the background.
A tender moment captured between two people in a natural outdoor setting with soft lighting.
Close up shot of hands with engagement ring during an intimate autumn moment.
A couple walks together on a winding path under weeping willow trees.
A couple sharing an intimate embrace against a bright outdoor backdrop with wooden fencing.
Romantic couple relaxing together on wooden deck in casual autumn attire.
Black and white series of a couple sharing intimate embraces and playful moments outdoors.
Couple sharing romantic moments under wooden gazebo in forest setting.