I have done my fair share of engagements shoots in dense redwood forests and on sprawling hilly landscapes.  While I love those kinds of shoots, it was a refreshing change to shoot some engagement photos at Cathedral Park in North Portland, with the striking architectural features of the St. Johns Bridge and close proximity to the bustle of downtown Portland.  

Even though the day was cold, we were able to keep ourselves warm by exploring all the nooks and crannies that this city park has to offer. Moving from location to location not only kept us from getting hypothermia, it allowed for an almost constant change of scenery that gave this gallery great variety.  We got some great shots under the bridge, had some fun at the boat dock, and essentially made the grounds one big portrait studio. It doesn’t hurt that I had the benefit of shooting a fun couple that was willing to traipse across the park with me. As with most photo shoots, the shots I got kept getting better as the session progressed and by the end of the shoot they were a couple of pros in front of the camera.  

Doing an engagement session that isn’t too far off the beaten path also allowed me to spend a fun, low stress hour with these two before I shoot their big day at the Exchange Ballroom in Southeast Portland.  It’s always a benefit to get to spend one on one time with couples before their wedding day, even when it is a two sweater underneath two jackets kind of day outside. However, from the look of warmth on their faces, it would be hard to tell from the photos alone that it was a blustery day outside.  The weather may be a little rough for a good chunk of time in Portland but it doesn’t mean that there is break in capturing beautiful photos of beautiful couples.  

Update: Unfortunately due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Katie and David’s plans changed. While they didn’t get married at the Exchange Ballroom, they had a beautiful and socially distant ceremony at Katie’s mom’s house in Portland. Their story was picked up by the New York Times!