From the Quad to the Courthouse: An Authentic Celebration of N & C
There is a specific kind of magic in the "before." I always find myself getting a little extra shot of adrenaline before a shoot; that sense of anticipation for the unknown is exactly why I love what I do.
For N and C’s wedding day, we split our time between the iconic grounds of the University of Washington and the King County Courthouse. Despite some early nerves about the Pacific Northwest weather, the sun decided to show up for us, bathing the day in a perfect, golden glow.
Part I: Architecture and "Hogwarts" Vibes at UW
N chose the UW campus for its personal history, but C’s vision was all about the atmosphere. Her vision board was filled with grand architecture, sweeping staircases, and movement.
When we arrived at the Quad, it was bustling with people. Instead of fighting the crowds, we carved out a quiet corner with a view of the trees and a beautiful set of stairs. I always like to give my couples a few moments just to breathe and relax before we start clicking—it allows the stiff "photo mode" to melt away into something more genuine.
The Moments: We focused on candid walking shots and individual portraits. One of my favorite captures was a quiet moment where N kissed C’s hand, followed by a stunning shot of them leaning against a vintage lamp post.
The Movement: We leaned into "unfiltered" storytelling with spins at the top of the stairs and a few of my favorite prompts like the "cinnamon roll" and "airplane" to keep the energy light and the smiles real.
The Library: Suzzallo Library looks like something straight out of Harry Potter. Since flash wasn't an option, we embraced the moodiness of the space. It was the perfect setting for some intentional motion blur, leaning into that timeless, cinematic feeling.
Part II: Ghost Stories and Courthouse I-Dos
The transition from campus to the King County Courthouse gave us time to simply hang out. There’s something special about the walks between locations; we spent the time discussing life and—of all things—ghost hunting!
The courthouse offered a completely different, yet equally stunning, aesthetic. Even without flash, the natural light pouring through the building was incredible.
The Ceremony: We prioritized portraits before the ceremony to keep the rest of the day relaxed. The "I-dos" were short, sweet, and perfectly laid back—exactly the kind of intimate atmosphere I adore capturing.
The Grand Finale: We ended the day on a high note with a classic champagne pop. It was the perfect exclamation point on a day that felt less like a "photoshoot" and more like a celebration of two people truly in love.
Final Thoughts
N and C reminded me why I prioritize "soul-over-shutter" vibes. When you stop worrying about the perfect pose and start focusing on the connection, you get images that actually feel like the people in them.
Are you planning an urban wedding or a campus session? I’d love to help you tell your story. Reach out here to chat about your vision!
