Charleston City Hall & Hibernian, Brasserie La Banque / Bar Vaute and Sullivan’s Island

Charleston, South Carolina Engagement Photos

With every client (new ones AND seasoned veterans) I have the honor of working alongside, I learn something new. It could be a ‘light bulb moment’ to help back end processes run smoother, giving users a smoother experience online. Or it’s an organizational job of better preparation on the front end, there is always an opportunity to grow and get better at my craft and how I conduct business.

Because quite frankly this is my first time running a business. I LOVE creating art and I adore working with people but business-related tasks (why do I want say chores) does not come naturally for me.

It’s a process! We’re all learning, right! (Right!)

Katelyn reached out mid-January about a year before her scheduled wedding date. She was searching for a photographer to capture engagement portraits. She’d seen my photographs from another friend’s gallery and inquired about the services I offer. We messaged back and forth discussing her dream shoot. I quickly gathered as much information needed to customize the perfect package for her and her fiancé, Cab.

We landed on a session towards the end of March — a date that not only factored in turn-around time for final edits but also kept us on track to send save the date cards to print. Additionally, March was a hopeful attempt for warmer weather (we’re southerners, we want warmth, ok).

Together, Katelyn and I chatted about her style and considered the mood and what she wanted the final photos to convey. Elegant photographs that would stand the test of time was high on the list. But, she also wanted whimsical and fun images to bring out the couple’s more playful side. We mapped out a route of every location we wanted to hit. Timing each spot helps maximize capture in between traveling to the next venue.

Starting our session at The Four Corners of Law, I guided the pair through multiple poses on the marble steps of City Hall. A tree sat to the side of the grounds, beginning to bloom (another plus when scheduling a Spring session). I positioned Katelyn and Cab so that the budding foliage would create a natural frame around them.

Photographers are not only looking at their subjects but also their surroundings. We’re always looking to see how to naturally incorporate the environment into the scene. We want to add to the final product without distracting from the subject. Poses should also match the environment. (Basically, we’re just catching a vibe).

The Hibernian will host Katelyn & Cab’s reception so the space was an absolute must. The two danced and dipped by the venue’s gorgeous white columns and all-encompassing oak doors. Regal yet lively. (No stiffed poses around here). Next, we made our way to Brasserie La Banque. We snagged a few photos outside of the building before making our way in for an outfit change + special treat.

Downstairs, at Bar Vaute, the two shared sips of espresso martinis and sneaked kisses under the mask of the underground’s dim-lighting. The only sources of light emitting from the tea candles on the bistro tables and glowing from accent lights positioned on the bar. It was romantic to say the least.

Lastly, we trekked across the bridge to close our session at Sullivan’s Island. Forecasts showed late afternoon scattered storms. Katelyn and I had been tracking the weather all week (remember earlier about being prepared for all scenarios?) and had clear umbrellas on deck, if needed.

Katelyn and Cab taught me that you don’t have to pick between elegance and fun— the two styles can coincide. Thankful to have captured these photographs for a very sweet couple.

Scroll down to see more!

Read Katelyn & Cab’s Review from our session together!

Ready to get started? Submit an inquiry here!