Let me set the scene for you: It’s Thanksgiving Day 2024, and I’m on the trail behind my parent’s house with my brother, Noah, and his girlfriend, Abigail.

Abigail, who also does photography, asked if I could snap a few photos of them on her camera for their annual Christmas card. Of course, I obliged.

Just as we’re wrapping up and getting our final few photos, Noah drops down on one knee and proposes. (We were ALL in shock, especially Abigail. However, I had no idea that was the plan LOL). So, when they came to visit me in Jacksonville for New Years, I obviously HAD to take their engagement photos!

Let me just say, it’s such a crazy feeling to be taking your siblings engagement photos. Still, I was so beyond honored to be able to document this season of their lives together.

We headed to Neptune Beach on a dreary New Years Eve morning. Ocean mist filled the air as a cool breeze brushed along the coast. The sky was pink and blue, casting a magical light on the beach.

I always recommend doing beach sessions at sunrise in this region. The East Coast has the most incredible sunrises, and if you’re wanting your engagement photos to have that super dreamy, backlit, golden quality, sunrise sessions on the east coast are the way to go.

Even though this session is mainly cloudy, there was a sliver of sun that peaked through the clouds for just a moment, and the glow it gave these two was out of this world.

I got to use some of my favorite prompts during this session. Another great thing about doing engagement photos on the beach is the amount of open space it gives you. It’s perfect for running around with your person and it allows me to capture those really pure, authentic moments.

Noah really came out of his shell toward the end, aka tying Abigail’s scarf around his head and cosplaying Rambo lol

Watching + documenting their love for each other was the absolute best thing. Seeing your siblings grow, fall in love, and start the next phase of their lives is such an incredible thing to witness, and I’m so glad I got to photograph this season of their lives together.

(I’m also so stoked to have a sister. Coming from a girl who grew up with only brothers, this is huge for me, haha).

Abigail and Noah will be exchanging their vows October of 2025 in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. While I would be so honored to photograph their wedding, I am even more honored to be a part of the bridal party!!

I can’t wait to celebrate these two and their love and watch them embark on their marriage together. 🥹