Southern Illinois and all its Beauty

Some photo sessions are more than just capturing a beautiful couple or a scenic backdrop—they’re personal. This one was definitely that for me.

A few days ago, I had the honor of shooting at Garden of the Gods in Herod, Illinois, and it felt like such a full-circle moment. The client? My old lash tech from my college days at the University of Illinois. Funny enough, one of her clients walked in, and I couldn’t stop staring at her lashes—they were flawless. I had to ask where she got them done, and she told me. That same week or a lil later, I booked my first appointment. After that, I was loyal for nearly two years until I moved away.

Fast forward to now—she’s in a beautiful relationship and reached out to me almost six months ago about doing a couples shoot. She had a vision, and after some planning and location scouting, we landed on Garden of the Gods as our dream spot.

Of course, in true Illinois fashion, the weather tried to ruin everything. It had been raining nonstop, and the forecast for shoot day wasn’t looking promising. But we were determined. We woke up around 6 or 7 a.m., glued to the radar, and the second we saw a break in the storm, we made our move.

Miraculously, it worked. The rain held off just long enough—just a few sprinkles here and there—and we ended up with the most breathtaking light and views. Nature really showed out for us that day.

This shoot meant so much to me—not just because of the history we share, but because it reminded me why I do what I do. I get to capture love, growth, and these little moments that tell a bigger story.