ABBI AND JR ENGAGEMENT

Love in the Lowcountry: Abbi & JR’s Dreamy Cypress Gardens Engagement

There is something inherently cinematic about Cypress Gardens in Moncks Corner. While most people chase the "golden hour" at sunset, Abbi and JR opted for a 9:00 AM session, and the results were pure magic.

The morning brought a soft, even blanket of clouds. For photographers, a cloudy day is a hidden gift; the sky acts as a massive softbox, eliminating harsh shadows and allowing the vibrant greens of the cypress knees and the deep, reflective waters to truly pop.

A Morning Amongst the Cypress

Abbi and JR have a natural chemistry that made my job easy. We spent the morning wandering through the winding paths and, of course, taking the iconic wooden boat out onto the swamp. Without the harsh glare of the sun, the mood was intimate, quiet, and incredibly romantic.

I am beyond thrilled to announce that I’ll be capturing their wedding this coming August! If their engagement session is any indication of the love and energy they bring, their big day is going to be one for the books. I truly cannot wait to see them say "I do."

Pro Tips: How to Pose Couples for Engagement Sessions

Posing can feel intimidating for couples, but the goal is to move away from "stiff" and toward "statuesque yet soulful." Here are three tips I used during Abbi and JR's session to keep things natural:

1. Focus on "The Connection Point"

Instead of telling a couple to "stand there," give them a point of contact. Ask them to link pinkies, have him rest his hand on the small of her back, or have her tuck a hand into his lapel. These small physical connections translate to emotional depth on camera.

2. The "Walk and Talk"

If a couple feels stiff, get them moving. I often have couples walk toward me while looking at each other and sharing a "secret" or their favorite memory. Movement relaxes the shoulder muscles and creates a candid, lifestyle feel that static posing can't replicate.

3. Use the Environment

At Cypress Gardens, we used the boat and the narrow bridges to frame the couple. When posing, look for natural "leading lines" (like a path or a dock) that point toward your subjects. This creates a sense of place and tells a more complete story.

Planning a Charleston Engagement?

Whether you're looking for a swamp-side adventure or a classic downtown vibe, I’d love to help tell your story.