the location of your session sets the entire tone of your gallery

I've seen the best of the best & I don't gate keep

Find what fits your vibe here & then book a session with me to make these moments come to life!

A joyful couple runs hand-in-hand through a lush green field, the woman in a flowing white dress, smiling at each other.
A couple holds hands in a lush green field under a weeping willow, woman in white dress, man in gray shirt.
Couple sitting on a blanket in a green field having a romantic picnic with a flower basket at sunset.

 

The Brenton Arboretum

 

Dallas Center, Iowa

 

One of my go-to spots! You do need a photographer membership to shoot here (but your photographer should have this covered). I renew mine every year because it's one of the most beautiful locations for nature spots in Iowa. The variety here allows for a gallery that feels like we traveled all around the state. You will find willow trees, ponds, fields, & a variety of trees.

Greenwood Ashworth Park

Des Moines, Iowa
Couple in white outfits standing by a large tree near a pond in a lush green park during golden hour.
Couple in matching white outfits holding hands while walking on a scenic park path surrounded by lush green trees.

People will often find themselves on the north side of this park to go to the Rose Garden and the Art Center (which I love too), but recently I discovered how beautiful this side of the park is... Especially around golden hour as the light is shining through the trees across the pond!

A smiling couple sits outdoors petting their golden retriever dog, surrounded by lush green garden foliage.
Couple toasting cocktails at a rustic bar with brick walls and shelves lined with liquor bottles.
Black and white photo of a couple laughing together in front of a Bulleit Frontier Whiskey neon sign on brick wall.
Couple clinking whiskey glasses on a wooden bar, woman wearing an engagement ring, romantic celebration toast.

 

Winchester Public House

(or your favorite bar)

 

 

West Des Moines, Iowa

 

There's nothing I love more than when we can truly make your engagement session feel like a date night for you. Bring me to your favorite bar, have a cocktail, and just be yourselves. I had the best time at Winchester Public House in Valley Junction with Connor & Kim (one of Kim's favorite spots). Most bars are photo friendly within certain hours. Always be sure to give them a call to check and ask if they allow it (or charge a fee). If you book your session with me, I'll look into all this for you!

Jester Park

Granger, Iowa
Couple sharing a romantic dip pose on a wooden dock at sunset, surrounded by a serene lake and lush greenery.
Couple in black outfits sitting on a wooden dock by a calm lake, woman turning to smile at camera.

Tall, pacific-coast vibe trees, a pond, tall grasses, a true nature escape. Jester Park in Granger has some great spots and views to capture all your joyful moments during your engagement session. I love the open field for a beautiful sunset! The pond has the cutest dock to stroll on. The golden rays we get as the sun sets... chef's kiss!

Couple sitting on truck tailgate with checkered blanket at sunset in a scenic field.
A joyful bride and groom dance outside a grand stone building, the bride in a white gown with flowing ribbon.
Couple in white outfits holding hands on grand stone building steps, woman leading man upward in elegant attire.
Couple holding hands walking past Hobnob restaurant with green awnings on a city street.

Downtown Des Moines

Des Moines, Iowa

 

Downtown is another great setting that we can use to fit the vibe of your session. Want classic vibes around the State Capitol? You got it. Want downtown coffee with all the cozy vibes? Let's grab a cup! Want a hidden spot on top of a parking garage with city views? Let's go! Downtown Des Moines is full of spots that will leave your gallery feeling unique and timeless to you.

Downtown Pella & Lake Red Rock

A young couple in coordinating white outfits pose together on a brick sidewalk outside a building.
Pella, Iowa
Couple holding hands on rocky shore at golden sunset by a calm lake with a pine tree nearby.

Engagement photos in a "Hallmark" town followed by dreamy sunset photos at the lake? Count me in. Pella has the most unique dutch architecture and art that creates stunning photos. The lake is full of beautiful nature spots and even some breathtaking views out on the cliffs if you're willing to walk a little bit. No matter where you go in this town, your gallery is going to be stunning!

Couple embracing at sunset by the water, golden hour light, romantic outdoor engagement photo on rocky shoreline.
A couple stands together under a blooming tree in a lush green park, smiling warmly on a spring day.
A smiling couple holds hands while walking through a lush green park in this black and white photo.
A smiling couple holds hands while walking in a lush green park, the woman leading in a floral dress and denim jacket.

Waterworks Park

Des Moines, Iowa

 

Even without the iconic blooms (only in late April/early May), Waterworks Park is a charming location for all types of photo sessions. Stroll through the walking paths, explore the ponds, and even frolic in an open grassy field.

 

Saylorville Lake

Polk City, Iowa
Young family with baby enjoying a sunny beach day, parents smiling at infant in blue striped outfit.
A couple walks hand-in-hand along a sunny beach shoreline, the woman carrying a baby while wearing casual summer clothes.

Okay... I know these are photos from the sweetest family session, but the location is perfect for an engagement session as well! The sandy shore with a distraction-free shoreline, the bright sun, and the prettiest open grassy field all make for the best spots along the lake. Reach out to book your dreamy session here!

A young couple holding hands in a sunny green field, with the woman cradling a newborn baby outdoors.