Harriet Island Regional Park in St Paul, MN


is one of the most diverse and scenic engagement photo locations I know. With sweeping views of the downtown St. Paul skyline and lush greenery along the Mississippi River, it offers the perfect mix of urban and natural backdrops for couples. It’s also a client favorite for St. Paul engagement sessions, so I find myself exploring the area often with soon-to-be-wed pairs. For Olivia and Averell’s engagement session, we decided to shoot on the quieter side of the park to help block some of that classic Minnesota wind, which was coming at us nonstop. Instead of fighting it, we embraced it—and the result was a session full of movement, smiles, laughter, and cozy cuddles that brought their love story to life.

A loving couple embraces while posing together outdoors in a park with green trees in the background.
A couple sharing a tender moment outdoors as the person in white displays an engagement ring on their hand.
A couple in casual attire dances together on a stone pathway near a lake under a large tree.
A couple shares an intimate moment together on a beach under tree branches with soft bokeh lighting.
A couple shares a romantic moment while dancing together on a stone patio by a lake under tall trees.
A romantic couple shares tender moments on rocky terrain by the water with trees in the background.

It is always fun for my couples to cuddle, twirl, and walk along the riverwalk, talking and laughing with one another. As a St. Paul engagement photographer, I always encourage my couples to lean into the moment, have awkward conversations that lead to full belly laughter—those are the moments that create the most beautiful, natural images. Olivia and Averell brought such a sweet, genuine energy to every frame—whether they were walking hand in hand through tree-lined paths in St. Paul or pausing by the Mississippi River at sunset, every moment felt organic, candid, and uniquely theirs.

Two people embrace in an intimate outdoor setting surrounded by lush green trees and sunlight.
Close up romantic portrait of a couple in love sharing an intimate tender moment together outdoors.
A loving couple embraces and shares a tender moment together outdoors under green trees on a sunny day.
Intimate couple share tender moment outdoors with green bokeh background and soft natural lighting.
A black and white photograph of an engagement ring placed on a leaf against a textured background.

As a St. Paul engagement photographer, it’s always an honor to document love stories in spaces that hold meaning and create memories. Olivia and Averell’s session was one of those that reminds me why I love what I do—capturing not just images, but the essence of a couple’s connection.

I can't wait to see what joy their wedding day brings, but for now, here’s a look at their dreamy engagement session by the water.

Couple walks hand in hand along riverbank with scenic arched bridge in background on cloudy day.
A romantic black and white portrait of a couple sharing an intimate moment outdoors with bokeh lighting effects.