An unexpected location change led to the most romantic morning session

The original plan for Megan and Brett’s engagement portraits was a sunrise session at Patapsco State Park. We arrived bright and early at 7:30 a.m. on a crisp Tuesday morning—only to discover the park gates don’t open until 9 a.m.! With golden hour slipping away and fog rolling in thick over the hills, we needed a Plan B. Quickly, we pivoted and made our way over to the beautiful Howard County Conservancy, and I’m so glad we did.

This last-minute change ended up being the best kind of surprise. The Conservancy was completely covered in a quiet, moody fog that transformed the landscape into something soft and ethereal. It was unlike any lighting situation I’ve photographed before—and I loved it. The fog and cold air added a dreamy, almost cinematic feel to these Howard County Conservancy Engagement Portraits, and it created the perfect excuse for Megan and Brett to cuddle in close. They didn’t need much convincing though!

Wrapped in coats and cozy layers, Megan and Brett leaned into the atmosphere of the morning. Between shivers and laughter, they were incredibly playful and sweet with each other. The fog wrapped around them like a soft blanket, giving every image a feeling of intimacy and calm. Sometimes, the most unexpected conditions create the most memorable and emotional portraits, and that’s exactly what happened here.

One of my favorite things about Howard County Conservancy Engagement Portraits is how the space allows for variety. From open fields to rustic wood fences and tree-lined paths, there are so many pockets of natural beauty to explore. Even with limited visibility that morning, we were able to create a gallery full of variety, personality, and connection. Megan and Brett’s chemistry truly made the location come alive.

This session was a reminder that even when plans change, something beautiful can unfold—especially when you’re photographing two people as fun, warm, and in love as Megan and Brett. I’m so honored to be the one capturing this season of their lives, and I already can’t wait for their wedding next fall at The Lodges at Gettysburg.

Whether you’re planning a spring session in full bloom or a moody fall morning like this one, Howard County Conservancy Engagement Portraits offer a peaceful, timeless setting for documenting your love story.

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Centennial Park Portraits | Sam & Holden 
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