It’s a beautiful thing getting to photograph a couple whose story has intertwined with your own journey. When Ben reached out to me, along with his fiancée Emma, about capturing their engagement, my heart soared! Several years ago, I had the privilege of photographing Ben’s senior portraits. Now, years later, the moment these two got engaged, I was one of their first calls. Talk about full-circle moments that make this job so incredibly rewarding. Fast forward, and we were able to capture their timeless romance in this stunning Downtown Philadelphia engagement at The Rodin Museum and Philadelphia Museum of Art. Their engagement session was utter perfection, and sharing it today with all of you is an absolute honor.
The Beginning: Emma + Ben’s Love Story
Emma and Ben’s love story began during their freshman year of college at a Halloween party. Apparently, nothing says “soulmate” quite like meeting someone while dressed in a Halloween costume. From that encounter to then popping the question on the shores of Lake Michigan, their journey has been nothing short of beautiful.
Speaking of that proposal, can we talk about how perfect it was? Ben completely proved Emma wrong when she confidently declared he’d never be able to surprise her. The setting? Emma’s family house on Lake Michigan. Emma’s in her old bathing suit with zero hair and makeup prep. With not a soul around, Ben got down on one knee and asked Emma to marry him. They spent hours sitting on that beach, soaking in their newly engaged bliss before heading up to share the news with their loved ones. If that doesn’t give you all the feels, I don’t know what will!
Downtown Philadelphia Engagement at The Rodin Museum
For their engagement session, Emma and Ben chose two of Downtown Philadelphia’s most iconic and romantic locations. First starting with the breathtaking Rodin Museum. If you’re not familiar with this gem, allow me to enlighten you. The Rodin Museum houses one of the largest collections of Auguste Rodin’s work outside of Paris, and the grounds are absolutely breathtaking.
Nestled on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the Rodin Museum offers an incredibly romantic setting that screams sophistication and artistic elegance. The moment you step through those gates, you’re transported to a French-inspired oasis right in the heart of Philadelphia. The museum’s gardens are impeccably maintained, featuring manicured hedges, pristine pathways, and the crown jewel, aka the stunning reflecting pool. That reflecting pool, you guys. It’s chef’s kiss, perfect for engagement photos. The classical architecture of the museum building itself provides a stunning backdrop. With its limestone facade and elegant columned entrance creating the ultimate timeless aesthetic.
What I absolutely love about the Rodin Museum for engagement sessions is how it offers multiple photo opportunities. You can capture romantic moments by the reflecting pool or the museum steps. Portraits with the classical architecture as your backdrop, and candid moments strolling through the gardens. The famous bronze statue, better known as “The Thinker”, also makes for an incredible and playful photo opportunity that makes the experience that much better.
For Emma and Ben’s session, the Rodin Museum gave us the perfect setting that matched their fun-loving personalities. It was the perfect first stop for their engagement session that prepped us to make our way to the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
The Philadelphia Museum of Art: The Perfect Engagement Location
After soaking up all that beauty at the Rodin Museum, we made our way to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Honestly, a location that is so iconic for engagement photos, especially in Philadelphia. The Philadelphia Museum of Art sits majestically at the end of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, offering views of the Philadelphia skyline. The sheer scale and grandeur of this building and its Greek Revival architecture offer an elegant look that simply elevates your photos.
What many people don’t realize is that the Philadelphia Museum of Art offers much more than just the front steps. The entire perimeter of the building features beautiful architectural details and quiet alcoves. The side terraces offer slightly more secluded spots for couples who want that romantic, private feeling while still being surrounded by beautiful architecture. It truly is such a stunning landmark in Downtown Philadelphia, which is why so many couples choose this gorgeous spot for their engagement session. During Emma and Ben’s session at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, we took full advantage of everything. We captured playful moments on the famous steps and, of course, those breathtaking cityscape views.
Tips for Couples Planning Their Philadelphia Engagement Session
If you’re currently planning your own Philadelphia engagement session, here are some insider tips:
Timing is everything: For locations like the Rodin Museum and Philadelphia Museum of Art, I recommend scheduling your session during golden hour if possible. The soft, warm light will make your skin glow and create that romantic atmosphere that photographs beautifully.
Weekday sessions: When possible, consider scheduling your Downtown Philadelphia engagement session on a weekday. Weekend crowds around these popular tourist destinations can make it challenging to capture those intimate, uninterrupted moments. Tuesday through Thursday typically offer fewer crowds.
Outfit coordination: For a sophisticated aesthetic to match locations like the Rodin Museum and Philadelphia Museum of Art, consider coordinating outfits that complement the scenery and architecture. Think elegant, timeless pieces rather than overly trendy items that might date your photos.
Book Your Downtown Philadelphia Engagement Session
Circling back to where we started, there’s something profoundly special about watching the people you photograph grow and reach major life milestones. From Ben’s senior session years ago to now, capturing him and Emma as they begin their journey toward marriage. I’m reminded why I absolutely love this job of mine.
If Emma and Ben’s Downtown Philadelphia engagement at the Rodin Museum and Philadelphia Museum of Art has you dreaming about your own engagement session, I’d love to chat! Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of the Rodin Museum or the grandeur of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, I’m here to help you create timeless engagement photos that feel perfectly you.
