Downtown Phoenix Engagement Session

This was my first time shooting a Downtown Phoenix Engagement Session since moving to Arizona! I forgot how much I loved getting creative in an urban setting. Emma and Jake grew up in Arizona, so they wanted to switch things up for their engagement photos and do something other than cactus. They opted for a cityscape instead of a desert landscape!

When I first got on the phone with Emma, I just knew I wanted to be their photographer! She has a heart of gold and you can tell from the moment you meet her. To say I adore this couple might be an understatement! They are so kind and so in love, and a great time to be around.

Honestly, every time I meet my couples for the first time I fall in love with them. The fact that I’m asked (and trusted in) to document their love story means the world to me… so how could I not love them?!

The Day Of Your Downtown Phoenix Engagement Session

The day of their engagement shoot there was randomly rain in the forecast. It had been sunny and clear skies all week, except for this day. I’m super flexible and know that we can’t control Mother Nature, so I texted Emma and asked if they wanted to reschedule. If I have availability I am always happy to reschedule, especially for thunderstorms. I’m also always down to roll with whatever weather comes our way! Emma replied, “From the wise words of my fiancé, ‘screw it, let’s chance it’… I think (as long as you’re okay with it) we will make the best of it!”

YES MA’AM.

On my way to their shoot I stopped at Target, ran inside and grabbed two clear umbrellas just in case! As I was driving on the freeway the rain started coming down…hard. I thought, “well here we go we’re about to have an epic photoshoot in the rain!” When I got to the rooftop in downtown Phoenix it was sunny and the storm clouds had just parted. Everywhere else around us was dark and clearly pouring, but not where we were! Thanks Mother Nature!

Downtown Phoenix Engagement Location

Like I mentioned above, this was my first time shooting in Downtown Phoenix (on a rooftop). I had previously had a shoot in the city at Studio House (an amazing studio), afterwards I went driving around to find the perfect location for these two. There are actually several awesome rooftops in downtown PHX! I settled on this one due to how easy it was to walk down to the street and get a little variety in the scenery. This garage is right off of Jefferson and 3rd.

When we walked down to the street we found that we were right by City Hall which was the perfect spot for the second outfits that these two wore!

The Outfits

I encourage my couples to bring two outfits along to their engagement session. You can of course choose whatever you want but here’s what I recommend. When it comes to your first outfit sometimes it’s fun to do one a little more casual, or one with some color. The second outfit I suggest doing one a little more dressy or glitzy. Emma did a phenomenal job of picking out their outfits! I think choosing one outfit to do more playful poses is a great move. If you’re into more adventurous prompts like dips, piggy back rides, running around, etc. then an outfit where you feel comfortable moving in is the best for these.

Emma’s heels need a moment for themselves. And what about this amazing clutch?! Like are you kidding, these are the perfect bridal accessories! You can find the same heels Emma wore here at Dolce Vita. And the clutch can be found here!

The Photos

I am obsessed with this gallery! It was so much fun working on the project. I wanted to make sure we got images that were authentic to Emma and Jake, their personalities, and relationship. We got a mix of both candid, and posed with a touch of editorial vibes. There’s something so fun and creative about shooting in an urban location!