Irene and James’ Old City Philadelphia engagement photos took place in one of the most historic areas of the city, with a quiet November morning giving us a little more space to wander than this part of Philly usually allows. We met up near one of the parks, kept the game plan loose, and spent the session walking around to see what would catch our eye.
That is often how some of our favorite city sessions come together. Old City has so many cool little corners, textures, streets, and recognizable locations that you do not always need to over-plan every stop. We were able to take photos around Franklin Square, near Independence Hall, and throughout the surrounding area, letting the session unfold naturally as we moved from one spot to the next.
One place we did make sure to include was Independence Beer Garden, which had been a date spot for Irene and James. Those personal details always make engagement photos feel a little more connected, even when it is something as simple as stopping outside a place that already has meaning. These two were completely natural together and a lot of fun to photograph, which made the whole session feel easy. We later got to photograph their elopement in the Poconos with just the two of them and a few friends at an Airbnb, and it was such a joy to see that part of their story come together too.
If you’re planning Old City Philadelphia engagement photos and want the session to feel natural, personal, and connected to places that actually mean something to you, we’d love to hear from you.
We are the husband + wife photo team behind Hand and Arrow Photography, specializing in the documentation of wedding, elopements and couples portraits in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, and beyond!
