Hey friends! Today we’re sharing Kristel and Joe’s Maymont Park Richmond anniversary session here in Richmond, and honestly, this one was such a good one!

These two just celebrated their five-year anniversary, and up until now, they’d never had professional photos taken together. They got married during covid, and they didn’t get professional photographs taken, so it was about time. This session felt extra meaningful to us, and we’re so glad they decided to do it!

Starting at Maymont Park

We started their session at Maymont, which is always a classic spot for portraits here in Richmond. Even when there’s other photographers and events going on at Maymont, there’s so many great spots in the park that we can always find beautiful areas to photograph. The gardens, the stone path, the fountain, these are just some of our favorite spots we love!

Because Maymont closes early, before sunset, we planned their session so we could use part of their session here first, then move to a second location afterward. Kristel and Joe had never been to Maymont before. They actually come down from the northern Virginia area for the evening to celebrate their anniversary, so there were a lot of firsts for them today!

The Carillon – Maymont Park Richmond Anniversary

For the second half of their anniversary session, we headed over to The Carillon near Dogwood Dell in Byrd Park. It’s been under construction for what feels like forever… We’d drive by it on the way to other spots nearby, always seeing the fence surrounding it… but now the main area and steps are open again—and it’s gorgeous!

White stone, clean lines, a winding staircase… and the best part? It was completely empty. After seeing about 15 other photographers at Maymont, having The Carillon to ourselves was perfect. It gave us a quieter, more private vibe for the second half of the session.

Why We Loved This Session

Kristel and Joe were so natural together. Lots of laughing, leaning into each other, and just enjoying the moment. That’s what you want to do for your first session… They trusted us completely. People always ask what they can do to prepare for their session, and all we say is to leave that to us. Relax, have fun, and enjoy it, and you won’t go wrong!

Anniversary sessions like this are such a good reminder to document these milestones, whether it’s year five or year fifteen. It doesn’t need to be a big production, and you don’t need to overthink it. Just pick a couple of spots you love, show up, and enjoy being together (oh, and go out afterwards like these two did!).

Scroll down to see a few of our favorites from Kristel & Joe’s Maymont park Richmond anniversary session. Congrats Kristel & Joe on 5 years!

Looking for other spots to photograph at Maymont? Check out this engagement session.