Fairbanks Park engagement photo in wildflower field

A Golden Hour Engagement Session at Fairbanks Park

Portraits

Lizzy and Eli’s Fairbanks Park engagement session took place on a beautiful August evening during golden hour. The couple envisioned portraits with a variety of natural backdrops, and this spot was perfect. Located in the heart of Indianapolis, the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art &  Nature Park offers 100 acres of woodlands, trails, and a lake. You would never know you’re so close to downtown! As an Indiana wedding photographer, I love it as a favorite spot for engagement sessions.

A Love Story Rooted in Childhood

Lizzy and Eli have known each other practically their entire lives! Their fathers were college friends who later became coworkers at the same Columbus-based company, and their mothers met when they were both pregnant. Their paths intertwined even further when their families started attending the same church. Although they attended different schools, they saw each other frequently at athletic and church events.

When they went to different colleges, they lost touch. Then, in the fall of their junior year, Lizzy commented on a funny video Eli posted on Instagram. Their friendship instantly rekindled, then sparked into something more when they went to dinner together over Christmas break. They’ve dated long-distance ever since!

A Summer Evening at Fairbanks Park

On a sunny August evening, Lizzy, Eli, and I met at Fairbanks Park for their engagement session. We began shooting by the picturesque lake, then strolled through the wooded paths toward the Pollinator Pavilion. The pictures of them in the lavender, gazebo-like structure are some of my favorites! Everywhere we went, the golden light reflected beautifully off the water and the green leaves.

The couple chose simple summer attire for their session, coordinating in a white-and-navy-blue palette. Lizzy wore a lightweight sundress with sweet lace detailing on the bodice and accessorized with dainty gold jewelry. Eli complemented her in a white polo paired with navy shorts. As the light deepened, I loved how their white attire stood out against all of the lush greenery.

I have the honor of photographing Lizzy and Eli’s wedding at The Wilds in May, and I can’t wait! Shooting a couple’s engagement session first is my favorite because it’s the perfect way to get to know each other and for them to loosen up in front of the camera.

Are you looking for engagement photos in Indianapolis? Whether you envision portraits in a natural location like Fairbanks Park or a chic downtown spot, I’d love to capture your story. Let’s connect!

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Photography: Mika LH

Location: Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park