Ian and Kali took me on a tour through the Butler Institute of American Art for their engagement session this past spring. This was truly an exercise in symmetry and composition, as I attempted to frame the subjects (the beautiful couple) in a complimentary way with the exhibited art. It's not every day I get to shoot in such an artistic location, so we needed to take full advantage of our time there. While I admired much of the art on display, I much more admired the couple before my lens.

When Kali and I discussed a location for her and Ian's engagement session, a few locations came to mind, but the museum stood out. They had been there early in their relationship to take prom pictures. Since it was supposed to rain that day, Kali thought it would be a perfect indoor location and would be a great callback to their early years together. Watching the two of them together, it was evident how much they adore each other.

In the time since they graduated, they decided to traverse a difficult road with challenging careers. Kali is an Emergency RN at a children's hospital and Ian is a volunteer firefighter and he's enlisted in the Army. It takes bravery and endurance to enter into such high-stress, yet essential occupations and as I spent the afternoon with Kali and Ian, those characteristics were evident in them. The two of them have already faced separation due to Ian's military training and will undoubtedly face future separation with deployment, but their commitment and love for each other has seen them through and will continue to do so. Their marriage already has a strong foundation and I'm honored to be a part of their celebration this fall.