A 1940s Fairytale


For this engagement shoot, I set out with a vision: to capture the essence of fairytales and the allure of the 1940s in a single, breathtaking look. From the moment I met Derrick and Julia, I knew they were the perfect couple to bring this dream to life. Their chemistry, style, and enthusiasm matched the energy I had envisioned for this shoot. As a photographer, I always strive to go beyond the ordinary and create something extraordinary. That's why I meticulously crafted a mood board that not only conveyed my vision but also served as a guide for Derrick and Julia to understand the aesthetic we aimed to achieve.


The day of the shoot arrived with a perfect blend of breezy yet sunny weather, promising a glorious sunset at the stunning Great Plains Nature Center in Wichita, Kansas. As we explored the location, I couldn't help but be captivated by the enchanting surroundings. The majestic trees that adorned the landscape seemed straight out of a fairytale, setting the stage for a magical experience.


To fully embrace the 1940s vibe, I carefully selected outfits inspired by The Notebook and infused with elements of noir. The couple's attire perfectly complemented the era while exuding timeless elegance. Accompanied by a vintage bike, a charming picnic blanket, and an array of delicate flowers, we transformed the scene into a visual spectacle that would make any camera swoon.


Every pose and every frame were meticulously crafted to tell a story. I guided Derrick and Julia through a series of romantic and playful poses, ensuring their love and connection shone through each image. It was a collaborative effort, and as I clicked the shutter, I couldn't help but feel the exhilaration of capturing those fleeting moments of pure joy and intimacy. A lot went into making this day happen, and I want to take you through the journey with me.

The Planning Phase


The planning phase was crucial in realizing my vision for Derrick and Julia's engagement shoot. To achieve the perfect blend of The Notebook and 1940s noir, their outfits played a pivotal role. Derrick and Julia effortlessly embraced the theme, donning vintage-inspired attire that exuded elegance and nostalgia. Although not from the 1940s, their clothes paid homage to the era, capturing its essence while maintaining a contemporary charm.


As a photographer, I understand the importance of setting the right mood. To guide the shoot, I created a mood board that incorporated rich, deep tones, drawing inspiration from other talented photographers and cinematographers. This visual guide ensured a unified vision and helped everyone involved understand the desired outcome. The carefully selected color schemes and compositions enhanced the overall aesthetic, evoking a sense of romance and nostalgia.


And, yes, I definitely watched the movie for the hundredth time and cried at the ending 🥲

The Location


Then came the crucial decision of selecting the perfect location for this enchanting shoot. The Great Plains Nature Center in Wichita, Kansas, proved to be a hidden gem. As we arrived, we were greeted by a mesmerizing sight—the fairytale-esque trees that lined the path. These majestic trees provided a dreamy backdrop, as if straight out of a storybook. The combination of their charm and the golden sunlight created a magical atmosphere, setting the stage for unforgettable moments.


Capturing the Moments


With the picturesque location set, I guided Derrick and Julia through the scene, capturing their love and affection in every frame. The photography camera became an extension of my vision, translating the fairytale ambiance and the 1920s-inspired aesthetic into photographs that would stand the test of time. The intimate moments shared by the couple, their stolen glances and gentle laughter, were frozen in time, becoming cherished memories forever.


Inspired by wedding photography poses, I directed Derrick and Julia through a series of graceful and romantic movements. Their natural chemistry and love for each other shone through every pose, allowing me to capture timeless images that portrayed their genuine connection. The meticulously crafted poses accentuated their bond, resulting in photographs that evoked deep emotions and told a compelling story.


The Fine Details


To enhance the overall feel, we incorporated additional elements to complement the theme. A vintage bicycle added a touch of whimsy, symbolizing the nostalgic era we aimed to evoke. A cozy picnic blanket adorned with flowers and props created a romantic setting, reminiscent of a bygone era. These carefully selected details, inspired by garden photography, added depth and richness to the photos, elevating them to art.


Conclusion


As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over Derrick and Julia, I knew we had achieved something extraordinary. The combination of fairytale-like trees, vintage-inspired outfits, and the 1920s ambiance had come together seamlessly. This engagement shoot, fueled by creativity and passion, was a testament to the power of photography to capture not only moments but also emotions and dreams. I couldn't have asked for a better couple to bring this vision to life. Wichita, Kansas, had provided the perfect backdrop for this love story, and I was honored to be their wedding photographer in this captivating journey.