One of the most beautiful things about being a photographer is getting the chance to capture intimate moments that are so precious and special to people. This is the story of how I met Eisa + Lina, a couple who I had the privilege of working with on a couple's portrait shoot. It was an unexpected journey that ended up being one of the most heartwarming experiences I've ever had as a photographer.
I was introduced to Eisa + Lina through our mutual friend Marianna. She had mentioned that they had a strong connection through their cats and would love to do a couple's portrait shoot. We wanted to capture how they lived together in their charming apartment. It was filled with little things that made it very personal and unique to them. From photos of their parents and grandparents to queer art and pottery that Lina makes herself, their apartment was a reflection of their relationship.
Marianna and I had no idea that their couple's shoot was actually going to be an engagement shoot. They had just gotten engaged but hadn't told anyone yet. We were so honored to not just be the first to know but also capture the announcement. The most touching moment of the shoot was when Eisa sat down at the piano to play some songs from Steven Universe. It was a series that is important for queer representation in kids' cartoons, and it was amazing to see how it resonated with queer adults as well. We captured a clip of Eisa + Lina singing "Peace and Love (On Planet Earth)" that was so tender and intimate. It was one of those moments that you don't stage, but it just happens naturally.
A few weeks after the shoot, Eisa emailed me to share that they had been so inspired by the love that was felt during the shoot that they announced their engagement to their families. It was amazing to hear that our shoot had such a positive impact on their lives. Being able to capture milestones as intimate as this for work is a blessing, and I never take it for granted.
WOW - thank you so much for the sweet and genuine way you captured our love and a slice of our life (including Pinto Bean!) I don't know if we told you but having that photo shoot felt so loving and powerful that that same night I actually broke the news with my parents that Eisa and I were engaged! It also feels so special to have these pictures, and as an anniversary gift Eisa got an artist friend to paint portraits of us using your photo as a guide too! So thrilled to print these photos and frame them when we have more wall space too. With love, Eisa & Lina
Meeting Eisa + Lina was a beautiful experience that I will always cherish. Their love for each other was evident in every shot we took, and it was amazing to see how our shoot had a positive impact on their lives. As a photographer, it's moments like these that remind me why I love what I do.
