Anbinh + Michael’s Engagement Session – I’m always at awe and in disbelief when an e-mail from out of the blue could lead to something much more in a matter of a few weeks. Not too long ago, I got an inquiry from Anbinh and Michael, who lives in Washington, DC but will be getting married next April in Southern California, asking about my photography services.

I was bummed out to tell them I was already booked, and without thinking too much of it, threw out the idea of at least shooting their engagement session in DC. The nation’s capital has a special place in my photography heart but I’ve never had a chance to do a shoot there. Plus it would’ve been so much fun to meet Anbinh and Michael, and work with them before their big day. Turns out they took me up on my suggestion, and before you know it, we hit it off like old friends last Wednesday.

One thing I wasn’t expecting, or at least hoping for, was icky rain. Sure enough it poured like cats and dogs while we were grabbing a bite around noon. But neither the rain, yucky traffic, and a crazy/weird/dorky wedding photographer could stop Anbinh and Michael from enjoying their e-session :). Fortunately, the weather God was kind to us and after an hour or so of shooting, the rain went away and the sun peeped through the clouds casting a gorgeous day of in DC.

With the help of my awesome “assistant” Nancy ;), we went to all the spots that had a special meaning to Anbinh and Michael. First off was where they met at the US Treasury, and dare I say, this may have been the very first e-session at this building :). We were able to sneak around the hallways and conference rooms for some shots. Afterward, we headed to the museum where Anbinh and Michael had their first official date.

What I loved about them was not only were they downright in LOOOOOVE, but Anbinh and Michael gave me full reigns on the shoot; they didn’t hesitate to jump, run, sit, dance, and even get in a bit of trouble by standing in front of a street where Secret Service was transporting the president of the United States, Mr. Barack Obama. That’s right folks, we were about 30 feet from the president; however, we had no clue which car he was in :P.

We finished the memorable day by going to a gorgeous park called Great Falls, where Anbinh and Michael first had a chance to get to know one another. That place was absolutely breathtaking, and if it weren’t for the sun setting on us so quickly, we probably would’ve shot for another few hours and started a camp fire :).

I can’t thank Anbinh and Michael enough for flying me out to DC and giving me such a wonderful opportunity. I hope to see you guys again soon, especially when you come to LA for your wedding. Thanks again sharing with Nancy and me your love story and allowing me to document it :).