Late Fall Engagement Session in the Hudson Valley at the Vanderbilt Mansion


Nicole and Thomas, from New Jersey, chose the Hudson Valley for their engagement photos to capture the beauty of the region in late fall, just as the last of the autumn colors lingered. With their wedding set for the fall at Locust Grove in Poughkeepsie, NY, they wanted their engagement session to reflect the stunning natural landscapes of upstate New York. The vibrant foliage, crisp air, and rustic historic charm of the Vanderbilt Mansion made for the perfect backdrop, creating intimate and timeless images that beautifully captured their connection. Their engagement shoot was the ideal way to embrace the Hudson Valley’s seasonal magic and set the tone for their upcoming fall wedding.

Two people gaze at a tranquil forest stream in winter, shown from behind in black and white photography.

Why The Vanderbilt Mansion is the Perfect Spot for Your Engagement Photos


The Vanderbilt Mansion in Hyde Park, NY, is the place to be. With its stunning architecture, lush gardens, and sweeping views of the Hudson River, it’s like stepping into a real-life fairytale. Whether you’re into classic, romantic shots or something a little more laid-back and candid, this location has it all. The mix of nature and history makes it perfect for creating timeless photos that feel fresh and authentic. If you're all about that perfect balance of elegance and chill vibes, the Vanderbilt Mansion will deliver the backdrop you need to make your engagement session truly unforgettable.

A couple stands on grand stone steps in front of a large wooden door framed by classical columns.
A couple walks hand in hand along a path in front of a stately neoclassical building with white columns.
Two people walk along a fall path near a grand historic mansion with bare trees and scattered leaves on the ground.
A couple embraces while standing on a leaf-covered path surrounded by autumn trees in a park setting.
Couple in casual attire walks along a brick-lined garden path surrounded by bare winter trees.
A couple embraces on a stone pathway in front of a brick wall and bare winter trees on an overcast day.
A couple embraces and laughs together in front of a weathered brick wall during an autumn outdoor photo session.
A couple holds hands while walking down a stone path beneath a wooden pergola in an autumn garden.
A couple sits lovingly together near a rustic brick wall, dressed in a red dress and plaid shirt.
Ornate brick archway and staircase with white columns and decorative curved beams in a garden setting.
A couple strolls together hand in hand down a winding tree-lined road on an overcast day.
Two people in winter clothing dance joyfully on a stone bridge in a park setting on an overcast day.
A couple poses playfully on a fallen log in the woods, wearing plaid and burgundy during an autumn photo session.
A couple holds hands beneath a curved tree trunk in a serene forest setting.
A couple poses playfully in front of a grand historic mansion with neoclassical architecture on a cloudy day.

Why Black and White Wedding Photography Captures Emotion Like No Other


Black and white photography, whether it's for an engagement session or a wedding, isn’t just about removing color; it’s about turning up the volume on emotion. When you strip away the distractions of color, the focus shifts entirely to the raw moments—those little, intimate glances, the subtle hand touches, and the deep connections that define your relationship. The lack of color adds a layer of mood and drama, making the image feel timeless and full of feeling. It’s like seeing the soul of a moment in its purest form. If you want photos that capture the true essence of your love and the vibe of your day, black and white shots will always hit differently.

A couple embraces under a curved tree branch in a moody black and white forest setting.
A couple takes a romantic autumn stroll through fallen leaves near historic buildings in a black and white photo.
A couple shares a tender moment on a park bench surrounded by bare winter trees in monochrome.
A black and white portrait of someone smiling warmly at the camera in a polka dot top.
A couple embraces and laughs together while standing against a weathered brick wall in black and white.
A couple shares a tender moment together against a rustic brick wall with a house visible in the background.
A couple sits in a romantic brick archway in black and white, sharing an intimate moment together.
A couple sits together on a bench under a brick archway in a black and white portrait.
A couple shares a candid black and white moment together against a brick wall background.
A couple holding hands while walking on a garden path beneath a wooden pergola structure.
A couple holds hands while walking on a stone-lined path leading to an ornate garden entrance gate in black and white.
A couple embracing while sitting together on stone steps under an ornate gazebo.
Black and white photo of a happy couple dancing and twirling together on a stone bridge pathway.
A couple shares a candid moment together outdoors in black and white, with one wearing a polka dot dress.
Two people dance joyfully on a stone bridge in the rain, captured in black and white photography.

Why an Engagement Session is a Must for Your Wedding Photos


Engagement sessions are honestly such a vibe and a total game-changer for your wedding day. It’s the perfect chance to get comfortable in front of the camera and see how I work—plus, we get to capture those super intimate, candid moments that tell your story. I’m all about those in-between moments—the laughs, the little touches, the genuine connection—because that’s where the magic happens. I can’t wait for Nicole and Thomas’ wedding this fall at Locust Grove in Poughkeepsie; it’s going to be epic Hudson Valley wedding. If you're looking for an engagement or wedding photographer who gets the real, raw moments, hit me up. Let’s make your day unforgettable!