Jenna Cole Photography – Chicago, IL

I admit, I get along best with the women at my sessions (it probably shows in my photos, I always love showcasing the girls), but Nick wins the prize for my coolest guy yet! He asked me all sorts of questions about my lenses and the different angles I was going after in my shots, and he got really excited when I showed him a few images on the back of the screen (which is always very flattering). My favorite part about him though, is the way he looks at Rachel. As you scroll down these photos, pay attention to how often he is looking at her. He was constantly reaching over and sweeping her hair out of her face, telling her how beautiful she looked. What girl wouldn’t glow with adoration like that being showered down upon her?

These two were always smiling, always laughing, and I  have high hopes for their wedding next August!

I’ve been trying to work with hard light a little bit more. I still prefer open shade.

Rachel is going to quit Diet Coke. She indulged that day though.

I think the shot on the left is THAT SHOT for me.  I feel like it’s the shot that would make their friends and family say “it’s so Rachel and Nick!”

Rachel and Nick,

August feels so far away! I’m sure it will come quickly for you, but I want you to know that I’m really looking forward to spending time with you again.

Best,

Jenna

I admit, when I look at this one, some MJ runs through my head.

Candice and Brian. Love them.

Brian I’ve only known for a few months, but I first met Candice a few years ago. I was living in Dallas for a few months before I got married when I first laid eyes on the “barbie twins” (as my husband and I would refer to them). They were sisters and they always looked fabulous. Candice was one of them, and my husbands roommate ended up marrying the other. Now it’s Candice’s turn to wear the white dress, and I was thrilled when she told me I would be the lucky girl to photograph their wedding. Their reception is going to be held at the Dallas Arts Center (I was the one who recommended it to them after photographing Laura and Matt’s reception in August), and I’ve seen pictures of Candice’s dress and it is STUNNING.

I asked Candice what kind of pictures I could give back that would really describe them. She said that in their relationship, Brian cracks the jokes, and she does the laughing. I’m happy to say I have lots of pictures of that very thing to give back to them!

While we were photographing in front of this wall, a man walking some dogs came up and stood right in front of me, holding his hand in front of my lens. He told me that it was illegal for me to take pictures that included his property, and I admit I lost my temper a bit and told him that I would love for him to call the police so we could sort these things out, because I knew my rights and photographers are allowed to take pictures of pretty much anything as long as they are standing on public property while they do it (there are of course exceptions, like invading someones privacy and taking pictures of them through their windows, or taking pictures of nuclear facilities). I will be holding my tongue with future clients, because it wasn’t very professional of me to act that way in front of client, but these two are close friends and they said they actually really enjoyed witnessing the exchange.

In short, know your rights.

THAT SHOT!

The one on the right is my favorite from the session. This spot was one I had noticed over a year ago, but it’s inside an apartment complex and we couldn’t get inside. This time when we walked by the door was propped open, so we stepped inside and took advantage of the lovely light and beautiful surroundings. The muscular physique of these two gave me the best dip kiss I’ve ever seen! You can bet I’ll be asking for lots of dip kisses on the wedding day.

I love the variety of textures and colors that I’m able to use whenever I shoot in Deep Ellum.

Brian gave these shoes to Candice. Good taste, eh?

I think she’s going to wear them under her dress on her wedding day. F.A.B.U.L.O.U.S.

Another favorite. Brian makes this look absolutely effortless.

I was constantly on the lookout for new ways to capture those gorgeous shoes.

There were shot at f1.2 with the light fading fast.

We ended in the middle of the train tracks, Brian had to carry Candice (which was easy for him, of course) because the shoes had to be protected at all costs.

We were just about to leave, when a train came by. I yelled out “Hurry, pose!”, and these two settled into this. So ridiculously natural, right? It’s going to be a fabulous wedding.

Only 7 more months to go! Little P is going to look so cute all dressed up for your wedding (and he might even be able to get out on the dance floor and boogie down!)

Best,

Jenna