Colorado Springs moody engagement session

A couple standing hand-in-hand at Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs during their moody engagement session photographed by Chuck and Shiloh

One thing that will certainly never get old documenting monumental moments for couples. Throughout my years as a wedding photographer, I’ve had the honor of capturing moments for old friends, new friends, and complete strangers (turned friends). But there’s just something so special about the moments spent alongside someone who has supported me and my business through growing pains and moves across the country. Anja is absolutely no exception to that soft spot in my heart. Photographing Anja and Brady’s Colorado Springs moody engagement session felt like a little taste of home in the best way possible. 

A couple staring off into the distance at Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs during their moody engagement session photographed by Chuck and Shiloh

Colorado Springs engagement

I first met Anja in 2018 when we were both working at Texas Roadhouse in LaCrosse, Wisconsin. Anja could always be found with a smile on her face, and I can attest that all these years later — that still remains true. A few years later, Brady proposed to Anja and they are now celebrating over 6 years together! After Brady had proposed, Anja reached out to see if Chuck and I could document their wedding day in the Madison, Wisconsin area. Spoiler alert: we said yes! At the time, Chuck and I were just planning our big move to Colorado Springs. So naturally, we said, “hey, why don’t you two come to Colorado Springs for your engagement photos?” And much to our surprise, Brady and Anja booked flights soon after. Again — working with a couple that trusts you enough to fly half way across the country is pretty incredible. 

When we started planning for Brady and Anja’s Colorado Springs engagement photos, I sent them a list of potential engagement session locations in the area. Not too long ago, I did an entire post dedicated to The BEST Colorado Springs Engagement Session Locations if you’re also on the hunt! But of course, the fan favorite that is Garden of the Gods was the top contender. Additionally, these Wisconsin lovers were also envisioning some photos in a wide-open field to pay homage to the plains of the Midwest. After doing some digging, I found Stratton Open Space which checked all the boxes.

Woman resting her hands on her fiancé's as his arms wrap around her
Couple sitting on red rocks in Garden of the Gods photographed by Chuck and Shiloh
Colorado Springs couples photography

Where to Take Engagement Photos in Colorado Springs

Once Brady and Anja arrived to Colorado Springs, we met up for a few hours to spend time exploring and capturing their love. While we are most often spoiled with idea weather and blue skies in Colorado Springs, I was stoked for the moodiness of the cloud cover overhead. Don’t get me wrong - Garden of the Gods is stunning year-round, regardless of conditions. But on this day, the deep gray and blue clouds created such a dramatic contrast with the red rocks of the park. Brady and Anja’s chemistry was truly effortless as we wandered through the park, enjoying the views. After soaking up the red rocks, we made the short drive to Stratton Open Space where the clouds really rolled in. Between the couple’s outfits, the lush green grass, and dark cloud cover, I was in complete awe! The results of this portion of Brady and Anja’s Colorado Springs moody engagement session feel like a movie. 

Couple standing hand-in-hand in front of red rocks at Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs
Couple sitting in a grassy field as storm clouds roll in overhead
Couple running around a grassy field during their engagement session at Stratton Open Space in Colorado Springs

Before we knew it, it was time to say ‘goodbye’ and send Brady and Anja back to Wisconsin. Now, we are just months away from their dreamy Wisconsin wedding day (and I can’t wait). I couldn’t be more grateful for couples like Brady and Anja who not only just love each other so deeply, but also are so supportive of what Chuck and I do. I can’t help but to have the fullest heart when thinking just how lucky we really are. 

Romantic couple smiling as they snuggle in for a kiss during engagement photos in Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs engagement photography

Searching for more “sappy moments with Shiloh”? Check out the past blogs. And of course, you can keep up with Chuck, Shiloh, and Hoka over on the ‘Gram (@chuckandshiloh). ’Til next time!

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Eloping in the Badlands – A Love Story as Wild as the West on film

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wildflower inspired engagement session in breckenridge, co