Golden Hour Magic with Courtney & Dan

There’s just something about Chicago at golden hour—the city practically glows, & it’s like the skyline knows it’s about to be the star of the show. Add a couple like Courtney & Dan to the mix, & you’ve got yourself a session that’s equal parts stunning & heartwarming.

Courtney and Dan are the kind of people who claim they don’t spend much time in front of the camera, but let me tell you: LIES. These two were absolute naturals. From the first snap, their love was on full display—pure, joyful, & so easy to capture. It’s like they’ve been secretly moonlighting as professional models or something. (Are we sure they’re not?)

We started our session at one of my favorite spots near the riverwalk. Courtney and Dan strolled hand-in-hand, and the way they looked at each other? Let’s just say, the rest of Chicago faded into the background.

The real magic happened when we hit Merch Mart right as the sun began to dip. The soft, dreamy light wrapped around them like it knew this was its moment to shine. If golden hour were a person, it’d be their biggest fan.

We finished off the session at a little tucked-away spot with the skyline as the backdrop. Courtney leaned into Dan, & he kissed her on the forehead—a small, quiet moment in the middle of the city buzz.

I left the session with a camera full of gold & a heart full of joy. If this is just the engagement session, I cannot wait for their wedding next year. Courtney & Dan, you’re a dream.