First Landing State Park Engagement | Virginia Beach Engagement Photographer | JD & Jennifer

First Landing State Park Engagement | Virginia Beach Engagement Photographer | JD & Jennifer

Living in this area means that I see so many military families coming and going each year. From Langley Air Force Base to Fort Eustis to Oceana and several places in between, it's safe to say that Hampton Roads is always in transition. JD and Jennifer are part of this group, with a recent move to Virginia from way down south.

It always amazes me to see the strength of military couples. With impending deployments, long distance relationships, and so many struggles in between, there was an obvious steadiness between JD and Jennifer. He wants a big dog, but she grew up with Yorkie-poos. His idea of fun on a Saturday is a day spent golfing, and hers is entirely different. What matters more than their differences, though, is the unity they show when they are together. No matter where they are, what matters is that they are together...

Lions Bridge Engagement Photographer | Newport News, Virginia | Josh & Brittany

All of my couples are so special to me, but these two are even more so because Brittany is Nathan's cousin! I've known Brittany for over 5 years now, and I remember when she first started dating Josh a long time ago. They seemed perfect for each other - she is detail oriented, organized, and kind, while Josh is laid back, relaxed, and has an equally good heart.

As the years have gone by and I've gotten to spend more time with these two, I saw more and more how they were meant to each other. When Josh proposed over Christmas time in front of friends and family, I was not surprised at all - but I am so overwhelmingly happy for them! It means the world to me that I get to photograph not only their engagement session, but their October wedding as well.

Josh and Brittany - I'm so thankful that I can call you family! You have been so kind to Nathan and me, and it's a joy knowing that you will always be in our lives. I can't wait to see you both say "I do" this fall and begin the next step of your journey together. I love you guys, and congratulations!

Lions Bridge Engagement Session | Newport News, Virginia Engagement Pictures
Lions Bridge Engagement Session | Newport News, Virginia Engagement Pictures
Lions Bridge Engagement Session | Newport News, Virginia Engagement Pictures

Brittany has the most natural laugh - especially when Josh is around!

Lions Bridge Engagement Session | Newport News, Virginia Engagement Pictures
Lions Bridge Engagement Session | Newport News, Virginia Engagement Pictures
Lions Bridge Engagement Session | Newport News, Virginia Engagement Pictures
Lions Bridge Engagement Session | Newport News, Virginia Engagement Pictures
Lions Bridge Engagement Session | Newport News, Virginia Engagement Pictures

I just love those bright pops of color. It was a beautiful evening that day!

Lions Bridge Engagement Session | Newport News, Virginia Engagement Pictures

One of my FAVORITES!

Lions Bridge Engagement Session | Newport News, Virginia Engagement Pictures
Lions Bridge Engagement Session | Newport News, Virginia Engagement Ring Pictures
Lions Bridge Engagement Session | Newport News, Virginia Engagement Ring Pictures
Lions Bridge Engagement Session | Newport News, Virginia Engagement Pictures
Lions Bridge Engagement Session | Newport News, Virginia Engagement Pictures

...and we'll just end with this one :)

Lions Bridge Engagement Session | Newport News, Virginia Engagement Pictures

Brad & Jessica // Windsor Castle Park Engagement Photographer

One thing I love about my brides this year especially is that they come from all different walks of life. Brad and Jessica have been dating for years - since high school, in fact - and are finally tying the knot come February. Jessica is a hard-working nurse with a bright laugh and one of the biggest smiles I've ever seen. Brad loves fishing, his German shepherd, and most of all, he loves Jessica.

Between the two of them, they couldn't stop smiling on the most gorgeous day in May at Windsor Castle Park. From the glowy sunset to the fishing pole Brad carefully chose (yes, it even matches their outfits!), the evening could not have been more perfect. Everyone tells me they're nervous before they start their first session, but Brad and Jessica handled being in front of the camera with ease. They were simply a joy to be with, both as individuals and the amazing couple they've become.

Brad and Jessica - I'm so excited for the next big step in your journey! (And Brad - I'm so glad you actually MADE it to the engagement session after your kayaking 'adventure') Thank you so much for being genuine and real towards me and each other. Your love for each other is evident in every picture, and I'm so excited for your wedding in February. It's going to be beautiful!

Makeup: Makeup by Kim Porter

Windsor Castle Park Engagement Session in Smithfield, Virginia | Teal and blue outfits
Windsor Castle Park Engagement Session in Smithfield, Virginia | Teal and blue outfits
Windsor Castle Park Engagement Session in Smithfield, Virginia | Wheat field
Windsor Castle Park Engagement Session in Smithfield, Virginia | Picnic bench
Windsor Castle Park Engagement Session in Smithfield, Virginia | Picnic bench
Windsor Castle Park Engagement Session in Smithfield, Virginia | Plaid blue outfit
Windsor Castle Park Engagement Session in Smithfield, Virginia | Plaid blue outfit
Windsor Castle Park Engagement Session in Smithfield, Virginia | Dandelion ring shot
Windsor Castle Park Engagement Session in Smithfield, Virginia | Red barns
Windsor Castle Park Engagement Session in Smithfield, Virginia | Vineyard
Windsor Castle Park Engagement Session in Smithfield, Virginia | Bride and groom
Windsor Castle Park Engagement Session in Smithfield, Virginia | Fishing pole
Windsor Castle Park Engagement Session in Smithfield, Virginia | Fishing pole
Windsor Castle Park Engagement Session in Smithfield, Virginia | Fishing pier
Windsor Castle Park Engagement Session in Smithfield, Virginia | Fishing pier
Windsor Castle Park Engagement Session in Smithfield, Virginia | Fishing pier