COUPLE: A Rainy and Cinematic Session at the University of Mary Washington
On a chilly afternoon in late October, the forecast was calling for rain. When asked days earlier if they’d like to reschedule their sunny autumnal portrait session, Madeline and Dakota had other plans: they decided to scrap the sweaters for something more elegant, and commit to the moody atmosphere. Casey invited me to assist the session, which turned into a cinematic dream.
Madeline and Dakota chose to have their photographs taken on the beautiful, historic campus of Mary Washington, where they met. The day of the session was chilly and damp, which was offset by blazes of orange and yellow in the trees*. The campus was quiet, with the occasional student moving through quickly to get to another warm building.
*I, who spent about ten minutes wandering through the woods nearby,
trying to find the party through distant echoes, can attest that the trees were indeed lovely.
The portraits began under archways and umbrellas, accompanied by the soft and colorful scenery. The sun soon began to set, making way for a more mellow atmosphere. Decorative lanterns flickered on in the haze, and the brick walkways transitioned quickly into a film noir scene.
It was in this setting that we felt a surge of excitement. The low, moody lamplight and delicate mist of rain were perfectly complemented by the sharply dressed figures before us. Our imaginations clicked on, and we immediately began to direct scenes, with which Madeline and Dakota effortlessly and generously cooperated. Their combined backgrounds in dance were apparent in their composure and elegance in front of the camera.
As they danced and embraced in the orange night, we were thrilled to bear witness to such magic,
and to have the trust from the adoring pair to document it.
Madeline and Dakota are always up for a creative challenge, and that made this session feel like such an exciting collaboration!
Looking for someone to document your session vision? Schedule a time to chat with us. We’re excited to work with you.
