Portraits of Allison & Hank

A few weeks back, Allison, Hank and I met for a drink at one of their favorite spots in 12 South before making our way over to Sevier Park to take some engagement portraits. I usually begin engagement sessions exactly like this — over a drink or a cup of coffee, no cameras. We talk and unwind from the day and catch up like old friends.

Allison, Hank and I actually went to the same college (YSR!). That’s where they met, although they didn’t start dating until a couple of years after they graduated. They were friends all that time, and then suddenly they were something more. Hank popped the question earlier this year while they were back in town visiting campus.

We took our time strolling around the park, enjoying the soft blue sky melt away into a colorful sunset as the evening settled in. I was simply their observer, documenting Allison and Hank exactly as they were together on this Tennessee summer evening. This is the heart of what an engagement session is to me— a chance to make a genuine portrait of who people are in this specific place and time, this season of togetherness and anticipation. A portrait that will only become more tender and valuable with time.

We shot a couple rolls of film, a few Polaroids, some digital photos and then called it a day. Genuine, laid-back, simple. The best way a portrait session can be.

Photographed on 35mm, medium format film, vintage Polaroid, and digital

Developed by Safelight Imaging in Nashville, Tennessee & self-scanned at home