Lauren x Eric

Every year, I set aside a few complimentary sessions to give back to the people who have supported my photography journey. This year, I decided to do a raffle because there are so many people I’d love to photograph. Originally, both of my nephews entered just like everyone else, but on my way to this session, I realized something: they’re family. I didn’t want them to have to rely on luck for something I would have happily given them anyway, so I decided family would simply get their sessions, and the raffle could stay reserved for friends outside of that. I’m so glad I made that decision because photographing Eric and Lauren was such a gift.

If you’ve ever met these two, you know they’re constantly making each other laugh. Their relationship is full of playful teasing, inside jokes, and the kind of banter where you can tell they’re both completely in on it. Lauren shared that Eric loves doing little things just to “annoy” her, and she pretends to be bothered every time, even though they both know she secretly loves it. That playfulness came so naturally during their session because it wasn’t something they had to fake; it was simply who they are.

One of my favorite parts of photographing couples is hearing their story before I ever pick up my camera. Eric and Lauren met in a chemistry class, where they unknowingly spent weeks thinking about each other before finally talking. Their first conversation lasted four hours, then eight the next day, and before long they were spending entire days together hiking, exploring museums and gardens, trying new restaurants, and turning ordinary days into little adventures. Even now, they say almost every day feels like a date.

After photographing so many couples, you start to notice the little things that can’t be posed. The way someone instinctively reaches for the other’s hand, the way they look at each other when they aren’t thinking about the camera, and the comfort that comes from simply being together. With Eric and Lauren, I saw something that went beyond playful chemistry. Their relationship is built on genuine friendship, trust, and a quiet confidence in one another. It’s the kind of love that feels steady, safe, and lasting.

Getting to photograph family is always special because I don’t often get to see this side of their relationships outside of holidays and family gatherings. Spending the evening with Eric and Lauren gave me the chance to witness another piece of their story, and it was such a blessing. Some couples are simply fun to photograph, while others leave you with the feeling that you’re witnessing something truly forever. Eric and Lauren are absolutely the second kind, and I feel incredibly grateful to have preserved this chapter of their story.