This is the breath between “hello, fiancée” and “let’s go get married.”
Right after the first look on the front porch of Black Iris Estate, when tears have been wiped, and the nervous laughter has settled, I always give my couples a few moments to just be. No posing. No prompts. Just them, wrapped up in each other while the rest of the day waits patiently. Captured on a perfect July afternoon in Carmel, Indiana, this image is what happens when the world finally goes quiet.
Black Iris gives us so many incredible portrait spots (the brick patio and gazebo, the willow chapel, the meadow at golden hour), but nothing beats these first few private minutes on the porch right after the first look. The mansion’s white façade reflects light beautifully, the columns give architecture and romance in equal measure, and the entire space feels like the calm before the most beautiful storm.
At Black Iris Estate, the first look isn’t just a timeline checkmark. It’s the moment the rest of your life starts feeling real. And I’ll be there, quietly in the corner, making sure you get to keep it forever.
Captured with the Nikon Z9 and a 70-200mm lens in natural light.
Edited to look like film.
Location: 5801 E 116th St, Carmel, IN 46033.