Rachel & Zach Engagement Shoot

I'm really excited to be able to share the engagement shoot for Rachel and Zach. I couldn't have asked for a better location or weather, not to mention the cutest couple. Rachel and I go way back to the old Hometown days of the newspaper; she was the editor of The Monroe Courier. Rachel is the kind of friend that is incredibly supportive no matter what you're going through. To this day, one of my fondest memories of her was when she helped me through a bad break up. Amidst my tears, I told her how mad I was that I'd no longer be able to listen to a band that my ex had introduced me to. Rachel, very matter of factly but sincerely said, "Audra, there will be other boys and better bands." It was the perfect response to a ridiculous complaint.

Rachel moved down to DC and met Zach. They are such a wonderful, loving couple. I couldn't be happier for my friend to have found such an amazing man and I can't wait to shoot their wedding this November!

We wandered around Old Town so I could get a feel for it, and once the lighting was right, we were off! Our first stop was this incredible old railroad tunnel.

Next, we headed off to one of their favorite hang outs, Grape + Bean. While we waited for the outdoor patio to empty, we enjoyed a glass of wine.

There is such wonderful architecture in Old Town and this gorgeous cobblestone street. We dodged cars for a few shots.

Almost every stoop is perfect for pictures.

We tried a few serious shots, but Zach couldn't keep it together. In his defense, I'm sure Rachel was giving him a look to set him off.

The original plan for our DC shoot was to capture the Cherry Blossoms. Of course with the warm weather, the Cherry Blossoms had come and gone. We decided to have a little fun with the remnants.

We stopped for this vine covered nook and while Rachel got situated, Zach stole the show. Love the swagger of that shot!

And that might just be my favorite shot of the day.

After a quick outfit change, we headed into DC. Zach picked out some incredible, off the beaten path locations. I couldn't get enough of the waterfall or Rachel's adorable smile!

We had to wait for the light to go down for our last shot of the day, so I snapped this when they weren't paying attention.

Such a great back drop, I kinda feel guilty when things are this easy.

Since we didn't have enough time the first day to hit all the spots, we got up early the next day and headed back to do some monument shots.

Another one of my favorites.

We found a nice shady spot and took advantage of some greenery. Zach found his emo stare on Sunday. Can they do serious or what? I wish it were November already because I can't wait to shoot them again!

 

 Shooting Locations:

• Old Town, Alexandria, VA • Washington, DC