Corey and Rachel’s March Engagement Photography at the Virginia War Memorial Carillon in Richmond, Virginia.

We can’t get enough of engagement sessions that feel calm, fun, and true to the couple. That’s exactly what we got when we met up with Corey and Rachel at the Virginia War Memorial Carillon Spring session in Richmond. It had the perfect balance of nature, clean architecture, and space to just enjoy the process together.

Their story is one of those rare ones that unfolds like a movie. They met on Hinge, messaged a little, and then ended up spending over 24 hours on the phone in just one week. Then came their first date—coffee, simple and low-key, but both of them walked away knowing it was their last first date. Corey even gave Rachel a trophy for “Most Conversation Had With an Online Stranger.” And she totally earned it.

Why We Love Spring Sessions at the Carillon

The Virginia War Memorial Carillon Spring setting is hard to beat. In early April, the trees start to bloom, the grass is fresh, and the golden hour light pours in softly. It’s one of those spots that always feels timeless in photos. Plus, it’s usually quiet enough that you never feel rushed or watched, which makes a huge difference.

Also, the variety in the area helps the session flow. You’ve got clean stone architecture, open grassy areas, and tree-lined paths all within walking distance. That’s a big deal for Richmond engagement photography—we’re always looking for locations that give multiple backdrops without a ton of moving around.

What Made This Session Feel So Real

Corey and Rachel brought so much of themselves into this shoot. They were completely present with each other and didn’t try to perform. That trust makes a huge difference. As a Virginia wedding photo & video team, we always aim to guide without over-directing, so couples feel natural and not overly posed.

Their proposal story sums them up perfectly. Corey brought Rachel to her favorite spot—Bill Jesse Park—played her a song he wrote called “You Know When You Know,” and proposed while her best friends secretly set up the backdrop. Then they danced to “Tenerife Sea” and soaked in the moment. Everything about them is effortless and intentional at the same time.

Planning Your Session at the Carillon

We recommend scheduling your Virginia War Memorial Carillon Spring session in early to mid-April. That’s when the colors pop and the light starts getting softer in the evenings.

Wear something that makes you feel good and comfortable. We’ll take care of the rest. As a Richmond wedding photographer team, we’ll guide you through the whole thing so you never feel unsure about what to do next.

Want Your Story Documented Like This?

If this feels like your kind of session, let’s talk. Whether you’re looking for a Richmond engagement photographer or a Virginia engagement photographer, we’d love to work with you. The Virginia War Memorial Carillon Spring location is one of our favorites for a reason.

We’re not just here to deliver pretty photos—we’re here to help you enjoy the process, feel seen, and walk away with images that actually mean something.

Let’s plan something that feels like you, and make it fun along the way!

• For more inspiration, have a look at at another similar session we’ve shot!
• Take a peek at another one of our recent engagement sessions!
• Check out the Virginia War Memorial Carillon website for lots of info!

If you like what you see and are looking for your own Virginia wedding photographer, reach out via our contact form and we’ll get chatting!