If you would have asked me about doing urban garage rooftop engagement photos five years ago when I was leaving for college, I would have laughed. Now, I am inspired. I am in love. These dreamy urban sunset “engagement” photos are FIRE.

Sarah and Hunter answered my model call in February with enthusiasm and an open-mind. The last time I photographed on the top of a parking garage was over a year ago in Vegas with The Combs Creative. The reason I travel is to explore new creative opportunities and trends that I can bring back to the Black Hills. This is one trend I fell in love with.

In most of my engagement experiences, I start off the session slowly. It helps me to help you unwind and start to feel more comfortable in front of the lens. We start with the “grandma” photo. You know the one I’m talking about. The image of you and your partner posed facing straightforward to the camera with a soft smile that ends up on the fridge at grandma’s house, that’s the grandma photo.

From there, the creativity begins. During the planning process with Sarah, we talked about outfits and a specific direction. I had two ideas: pizza + drinks, or popcorn charcuterie! The couple opted to do a meal with the hour we decided to shoot, and I was happy to oblige.

On top of the meal, I packed my favorite little accessory, my blue Instax polaroid camera. Retro vibes are back, and this accessory is so much fun to play with. It’s part of what makes these engagement sessions more of an experience. Plus, if you turn it on you end up with a super cute snapshot to take home immediately after!