These two were married in Ames last May. We took their engagement session in early April (almost exactly a year to the day of this anniversary session!) but it wasn’t a very warm or green day yet. Thankfully, Preston landed a job in the Washington DC area after graduation and they moved out this winter. DC is about the same latitude as Kansas City, so just a bit warmer and earlier to change seasons than Des Moines and the rest of central Iowa.

When I realized that taking a trip this summer would be pretty impossible with my current photography schedule (I have a wedding about 75% of weekends in May-July!) it became apparent that I needed to plan a trip in April. I remembered talking with Shelby on our way to Emily’s wedding in January about how they’d love to have visitors… and I also recalled that early April is usually when the Japanese cherry blossom trees bloom in Washington DC. Ever since Lydia Jane had photographed a session there years ago, I’d wanted to visit these historic blooms. Plus, like she said, it’s a rite of passage for any DC/Maryland/Virginia photographer and I wanted to be counted in with the rest of the best. ;)

I love how comfortable these two are together after a year of marriage! They just seem to melt into each other.

We only got yelled at once by another photographer, and in general were able to be respectful of the runners and photographers alike. One jogger even stopped, ran back, and admired Shelby’s bravery to wear just a dress and sweater! It was in the upper 30’s… so pretty chilly out. Adrenaline kept me warm. These two just snuggled a lot! :)

Which photo was your favorite!? It’s hard for me to pick just one!
Amelia