This duet session with Ernie and Mary Helen was the last session I shot before baby, done at 37 weeks pregnant. They experienced the fastest turnaround any Jenna Cole client will probably ever see as I was nervous I would go into labor early and leave them waiting far too long for their photos.
We met up at the Dallas Arboretum and spent a few hours exploring (with a few outfit changes thrown in as well!). There were photographers and families everywhere but I worked a bit of magic to make it look like these two were the only ones there. This Duet session was actually Ernie’s Valentine’s Day gift to Mary Helen and I was incredibly flattered to learn that Ernie found me through some internet searching he did, looking for the Dallas photographer who would be just the right fit for them. I love working with clients who hire me based on how much they love my work and not on my prices!
I loved seeing what outfits they were going to walk out in next each time they went back to change. If you want the crowds to be extra nice and make way for you all you have to do is put on a dress that makes you look like a bride. Everyone will assume you are doing bridal/wedding portraits and clear the best spots for you!
THAT SHOT!
I played with flash a bit at this session, something I don’t normally do. I was pretty pleased with the results!
I experimented shooting through the waterfalls a bit. Ernie and Mary Helen were great about giving me a little bit of creative freedom to try new things and I think it really paid off for them.
I adore this one.
Most definitely my second favorite. These were taken in a little play village set up to show kids how people used to live and all of the 7 year olds wandering in this little cabin were pretty curious to know why some grownups were in the tub together getting their picture taken!
The biggest reason I love doing Duet sessions? Watching and working with people who are still so in love even after the trials of life have come their way.
Thank you so much to both Ernie and Mary Helen for being so wonderful to work with. I hope my own husband takes a hint from Ernie someday and gifts me a Valentine’s Day Duet session to celebrate our love!
Best,
Jenna
