Some love stories are a joy to tell year after year, and Anya and Eli’s is one of those treasures. Since 2021, when Eli surprised Anya with a Christmas proposal while home from the army, I’ve had the privilege of capturing their journey each summer when Eli comes home during the 4th of July. This year, their romantic summer evening anniversary session at Rice Creek Park was nothing short of magical—wildflowers in full bloom, golden sunlight streaming through the trees, and a couple so in love it felt like their story had been written for this moment.
Photographing Anya and Eli feels like catching up with old friends. Each year, they bring the same undeniable chemistry and a deep, genuine love for one another. It’s been incredible to watch them grow as a couple and to see how their bond only deepens as time goes on. This summer’s session felt particularly special, with nature providing the perfect backdrop for their anniversary portraits.
There’s no better time to visit Rice Creek Park than during wildflower season, and this evening didn’t disappoint. The meadows were bursting with color, the breeze was warm, and the light was that perfect golden hour glow that photographers dream about. Anya and Eli strolled hand in hand through the wildflowers, laughing and stealing kisses as if they were the only two people in the world.
Anya wore a the cutest breezy, yellow, floral top that caught the wind beautifully as she twirled, and Eli’s relaxed summer style complemented her perfectly. It was effortless, romantic, and so authentically them.
Between moments of playful laughter and quiet intimacy, Anya and Eli reflected on how far they’ve come since that surprise proposal back in 2021. Eli’s love for Anya is evident in the way he looks at her, and Anya’s warmth and joy light up every photo. There’s something uniquely special about capturing a couple’s love story year after year—it’s like flipping through the pages of a beautiful novel, with each chapter more heartfelt than the last.
As the sun dipped lower, we made our way to a meadow that seemed to glow in the evening light. The wildflowers framed their silhouettes perfectly, and the soft hum of summer cicadas made the moment feel timeless. Watching Anya and Eli soak in those last rays of sunlight, I couldn’t help but think how lucky I am to capture these kinds of connections.
Working with Anya and Eli every summer has become a cherished tradition, one I look forward to just as much as they do. Their love story is a reminder of the power of intentional moments and the beauty of preserving memories through photography.
If you’re dreaming of booking a summer anniversary session that’s romantic, meaningful, and as vibrant as your love story, let’s make it happen. Whether it’s wildflowers, golden hour, or the magic of your favorite place, I’m here to capture your story in a way that feels like home.
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