Monica & Noah’s Beach Engagement Session in Holland, MI: A Celebration of Love and Friendship
Shot on 35mm and 120 medium format film photography.
There are moments in a photographer's journey that leave a lasting impression, not just for the creative inspiration they bring, but for the people who make them truly special. Monica and Noah’s engagement session was one of those cherished experiences. It was a day where my roles as a friend and photographer beautifully intertwined, resulting in a session that felt deeply personal and incredibly meaningful.
Noah has been a steadfast supporter of my photography journey from day one. He’s the friend who’s always there, cheering me on through each milestone and encouraging me to keep growing and pushing boundaries. When I first met Monica, we connected instantly. She quickly became one of my closest and most trusted friends—someone who feels like a true soulmate in friendship. Seeing these two amazing people come together and witnessing the love they share was an honor in itself. Being able to document it on film made it even more special.
We began their engagement session with an adventurous sailboat ride on Lake Michigan, The breeze was perfect, and we toasted to their future with champagne in hand.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, we headed to the serene beaches of Holland, MI. There, we embraced the darkness, using a single artificial light that acted as a spotlight, much like a lighthouse guiding a sailboat home. This creative choice added a moody, intimate vibe to the images, highlighting the deep connection between Monica and Noah amidst the simplicity of sand and waves. It was a dramatic yet serene setting, reflecting both their journey together and the steady light they are for each other.
This engagement session is one of my all-time favorites—not just for the stunning film captures or the creative challenges we embraced, but because it was a celebration of two of my dearest friends. Monica and Noah’s love story is one that I feel deeply connected to, and being able to document it through photography felt like capturing a piece of my own heart.