Mariana and Erin Engagement

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Meet Mariana and Erin.

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There are a lot of perks when a couple is selective about the location of their photoshoot. From a logistics standpoint, it’s a relief to quickly align on a place to meet, it demonstrates that the couple is very decisive, and it enables the photographer to have enough time to research. From an experience standpoint, there’s even more to appreciate! A go-to spot also means that the couple already has treasured memories in a particular area and it’s an honor to know that the photos will extend that further. Erin and Mariana were so excited take engagement photos in Fort Tryon Park – a beloved neighborhood landmark. During the pandemic and to this day, it provided an essential element of peace that they could regularly enjoy, from the lush gardens to the beautiful stonework throughout. We took photos together in the late spring and it felt like the blooms were extra colorful for the romantic occasion.

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The way Mariana and Erin interact with one another is so gentle, genuine, and sweet. When asked about their favorite things about one another, Mariana shared, “I love Erin's caring nature and sense of humor.” Erin reciprocated, “I love Mariana's intelligence and her unexpectedly silly side that she saves for me.” Their deep mutual appreciation was so apparent during our time together in Washington Heights, as we explored the park for the engagement photos. It truly was SO adorable.

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Congratulations to Erin and Mariana on your engagement! Thank you for the lovely stroll and opportunity to capture some of your joy. What a beautiful partnership you have built together.

Kayla & Max // Engaged

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Meet Kayla and Max.

When these two high school sweethearts first met, Max was quickly smitten. It took Kayla a little bit more time, but good things come to those who wait. Now, they live happily in NYC and have built a wonderful home together with their baby - a lopsided cat named Alfred. We met one afternoon to take engagement photos in the SoHo / Tribeca area, with a beautiful city backdrop to enjoy.

Intimate. Comforting. Dependable. These rooftop engagement photos captured a tiny glimpse into Kayla and Max’s beautiful relationship. It doesn’t take much time together to clearly see that they’ve developed a true partnership. After 8+ years together, they’ve supported each other through challenges, stress, successes, and celebrations.

This was such a great day! We were nervous that the foggy, drizzly day would ruin the photos but I think there is something magical about a misty afternoon in NewYork City. Perfect engagement photos do not require perfect weather, perfect clothes, or perfect backdrops. A couple in love is honestly the only essential ingredient. Thank you for sharing your love with me, Kayla and Max!

Engagement Photo Details:
- Location: SoHo, New York City
- Kayla’s Engagement Ring: MiaDonna
- Max’s Engagement Ring: Manly Bands

Karli & John // Engaged

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Meet Karli and John.

Karli is from Seattle, John is from Grand Rapids, and they met - and fell in love - in New York City.  A classic tale, with some divine intervention from a dating app. Thank goodness these two met, because they're seriously a perfect match! Together, we explored and took some fall engagement photos at the Brooklyn Bridge Park.

I'm so grateful for Karli and John's positive, cheerful attitudes especially at 7:30AM on a Saturday! But honestly, these two bring out the best in each other and in everyone who is lucky to call them friends. There are people in life who just radiate kindness and accordingly, those people are always surrounded by love. Karli and John are connecters - they bring people together and have such a beautiful, varied array of friends. These friendships that they carefully cultivate together undoubtedly contribute to the strong foundation of love that Karli and John have for each other. They carry that commitment to caring in their work as well, through music and therapy and teaching and social work. They help others be better - and together, they keep growing and improving their own love.

Can't wait to photograph at your wedding this summer in Seattle, Washington! 100% will be crying behind the camera.

Love Is Badass // NYC Holiday Mini Shoots

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Let's be real. Relationships are not always easy. Sometimes the house/apartment feels too small. Sometimes the sight of dirty dishes makes you want to scream. Sometimes you just want to throw a temper tantrum because the breakfast got burned, the keys misplaced, the plans ruined. But then... you catch the glance of your boo, lovingly smiling at you while you passionately ramble on about the injustices of the day. And they keep smiling. They listen, nod, and gently touch your arm. They give you space and assurance, until the beast is soothed. Love is badass. Let's celebrate it.

Our loved ones evolve into our human diaries, confidantes, partners. They witness every grumpy mood -- because when you live together, you just can't hide it -- and they don't leave. No matter how crazy or anxious or upset we get, they stay. And the best part is, we willingly return the favor. This holiday season, celebrate your badass love with a mini photoshoot! You don't need to be newly engaged to deserve a photoshoot, (but if you are, congrats!). You don't need to be dating for a particular amount of time. You don't need a special occasion to take fabulous photos of you and your babe. Hell, you are still together! You are surviving and enduring and loving. That is more than enough of a reason.

Last week, I met up with Danielle and Jarred for a mini shoot. They got engaged in May, are getting married in February, and they keep loving each other every month in between. :) Our goal of this shoot was to capture some cozy holiday photos and give these two a special moment to remember what they love about one another. 

Interested in booking a holiday mini shoot with me? Email me at shadi.garman@gmail.com