THE SSP JOURNAL

Joyful, fine art wedding photography for real couples. Serving Chicago, Washington DC and beyond.
Based in South Bend, Indiana. Available for travel.

Spring Engagement Full of Love – Kathleen & Coleman – South Bend Wedding Photographer

I’ve shot quite a few engagements in my day and never have I had such a happy and playful couple! Kathleen and Coleman had a case of the giggles their entire session. From puppy kisses to that final shot, these two were so happy to be with one another and making these lifelong memories. 😊

Kathleen and Coleman met over 5 years ago at Notre Dame. They were set up on a blind date that happen to be a dorm formal. The both liked each other right away and shortly thereafter, went on their first official date which consisted of Thai food (Yum!) and card games. A romantic proposal at sunset has started them on this incredible journey to the alter. First stop – Engagement! 🥳

We started off their engagement session at the studio for hair and makeup. While Kathleen was being pampered, the 3 of us talked about wedding updates, Netflix shows and their adorable little puppy, Pippi. 🐶

Once hair and makeup was finished, we all jumped in the car and headed to Kathleen and Coleman’s home for puppy pictures. Pippi was ready for her close up as she had no problem smiling for the camera. 😍🐶

I call this section of photos – Instagram vs reality. 🤣

She’s such a ham for the camera. 🤣

After saying bye to Pippi, the 4 of us headed to St. Patrick’s Park on the northwest side of South Bend. The light was perfect and these two nailed it from the first shot. 🙂

Love, love, love! 💕

Just around the corner was this cute spot thats surrounded by trees. You have to stand pretty close to one another since it’s so small of an area but that didn’t seem to bother Kathleen and Coleman. This is when the giggles exploded! 😋

A few more steps inward and we were even more tucked back into the woods. The cuteness dial was turned up to 11!❤️

We made our way back to the lake and the sun was peaking out perfectly behind the trees. Sun flares for the win! 😍

I noticed the reflection of the trees in the water so I thought, let’s take this up a notch. Using a fun trick with my phone, I reflected the sunset and sky under Kathleen and Coleman’s feet. It gives the image not only an artistic flare but also gives the moment more of an epic punch. ☀️🤩

What’s an engagement session without a piggyback ride?! This was their idea and they killed it! So cute! 🥰

As Kathleen and Coleman changed into their final outfit, I photographed Kathleen’s ring on a nearby flowering plant. The pop of yellow really echos the spring tones of the session. 💍

We then drove around to the front side of the park to take advantage of the covered bridge and open fields.

I had Coleman spin Kathleen into him (the burrito shot🌯 ) and boy did they nail it! The couldn’t stop laughing especially since Coleman kept kissing Kathleen’s eye. 🤣😍

Big squeeze! ❤️

Next I had Kathleen and Coleman walk through the field. These two are naturals when it comes to the walking shots. We had so many great ones to choose from and I also thought it was hilarious that they spun each other. 😋

LOVE! ❤️⬇️

On the other side of the bridge was this old fence that now has vines growing through it. It was the perfect spot for a little cuddle time. These are my favorites from the day! ❤️

One last squeeze under the bridge!

The last shot of the session was completely unplanned. This is another covered bridge at the park but it’s always dark and overgrown with weeds and such. However, as we were walking back to the car, I had the idea to isolate Kathleen and Coleman through the lattice and add a pop of color to the foreground. Kathleen and Coleman stood inside the bridge as Grace lit on the right. I stood just outside and popped a light with a blue gel, at the lattice. The result was incredible! The shot is so unique to the location and tells a powerful story.

To Kathleen and Coleman – Thank you for such an incredible session! The hours went by so fast as we gallivanted all throughout the park. You’re so much fun to work with and I love how close you two are as a couple. Anyone can see how much you two care for one another. I’m so excited to be on this journey with you to next August and I hope you love your photos as much as I do! All my love – S

To see their full session, click here.

Vendors:

Photography: Sarah Sage Photography LLC

Hair and makeup: Blushing Beauty & Co.

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