RAIN DROPS AND LOVE STORIES
As a wedding photographer, there’s always something special about clients who trust your artistic vision years in advance. This was exactly the case with Jolene and Jared. When they first booked me nearly two years before their wedding, I was immediately struck by the trust they had in my work. It’s this kind of client relationship that every photographer dreams of -- one where there’s a shared vision, mutual respect, and excitement for what’s to come. From the very start, it was clear that Jolene and Jared were down-to-earth, kind, and ready for whatever the day would bring.
We began our session on the rooftop of Charbar in Calgary, AB, with the promise of a slight drizzle hanging in the air. As much as some might shy away from the rain, I absolutely adore it for engagement sessions! The gentle drizzle added an unexpected yet perfectly dramatic layer to our time together, giving the photos a unique charm. There’s something about stormy weather that brings an adventurous energy to the shoot -- especially for couples who are ready to embrace it. Jolene and Jared didn’t hesitate for a moment. They were all in, sharing laughter and moments of tenderness while the wind tugged at their hair and the raindrops danced around us.
As the rain picked up, we decided to take refuge indoors. However, as soon as we stepped into the elevator, I couldn’t resist the soft, moody lighting that filled the space. It was one of those serendipitous moments where everything just aligned perfectly. The dark, intimate vibe of the elevator paired with flashes of light as we descended created some of my favorite engagement shots to date. There’s something inherently captivating about that mix of shadows and light, and Jolene and Jared’s chemistry only added to the magic.
After the elevator photos, we made our way back to the main floor of Charbar, where the ambiance really took center stage. With dainty drinks in hand, we explored the bar area and a cozy corner of the venue, where the setting seemed to enhance the connection between this lovely couple. Their natural ease with each other, the way they exchanged smiles and whispered words, created such an authentic energy that it felt effortless to capture. You could tell that they truly enjoyed each other’s company -- it was the kind of love that just radiated.
As the session drew to a close, we ventured outside once more, greeted by cloudy skies that only added to the atmosphere of the day. The architectural elements around us -- sleek lines, urban textures, and beautiful details -- provided a stunning backdrop as we wrapped up the session. Hand in hand, Jolene and Jared laughed and joked, completely immersed in their own world. It was clear that they didn’t need anything other than each other to create magic. And it was this authentic, candid energy that made the final set of images truly special.
VENUE: Charbar, Calgary Alberta (@charbar_yyc)
