“Alright Max, this photo is all about you. You’re the star in this photo!” Max struck a pose with a model-like smolder on his face. Katie and I immediately burst out laughing. I think I almost started crying a little too (because if you know me, it doesn’t take much to make me laugh so hard that I cry). These types of moments kept us giggling throughout the rest of the session.

I have photographed Katie and Max before earlier this year. Check out their previous session here! They were so comfortable in front of the camera – they made it look easy!

Katie and Max managed to pick the PERFECT November day to take their engagement photos. With the weather we’ve had this fall, I wasn’t sure if we’d have snow on the ground or if it was going to be below zero. Admittedly there was a small pile of snow on the ground in a shadowy corner that Max pointed out. Thankfully we had a beautiful, sunny evening on Capitol Square without crowds (Thanks Badger football game for being at the same time!). 

The square was littered with leaves that glowed in the evening light. The Capitol was decorated for the holidays with some stunning wreaths and some Christmas lights so we made sure to take advantage of those as well. It made for the perfect dichotomy during their session and allowed us to get some photos with fall vibes and others with winter vibes.

Max and Katie met in college through marching band at Notre Dame. When they went back to campus for a football game this fall, they enjoyed reminiscing about their time on campus. They spent some time walking around campus and eventually ended up at a special place – the location of their first kiss. Max thought this would be the perfect place to get down on one knee and he asked Katie to marry him. And, spoiler alert, she said yes!

Fittingly, they will be getting married at the Basilica on campus next fall. And guess where their reception venue is? The location of their first date. That’s pretty perfect if you ask me (although I might be biased because my husband and I also got married at the Basilica)! 

Katie and Max – I had so much fun with you two during this session. Thanks for giving me an excuse to spend an evening in Madison and eat some of my favorite cheese curds (Graze, for those of you wondering). I am so excited for you two as you continue to plan for your wedding next fall. From what you’ve told me, it sounds like it’ll be a day to remember! I wish you two the best as you prepare to spend your married life together.

Enjoy a few of my favorite photos from their session!