Today we’re sharing Caitlin and Joe’s Maymont Park historic Carillon engagement session, and honestly… this one felt like such a perfect example of why we love shooting in this city so much! We started at Maymont Park and then finished the evening over at the Richmond Carillon in Byrd Park, and the combination of those two spots just never gets old!

Maymont Park Tips – Maymont Park Historic Carillon Engagement

If this flow sounds familiar, it’s because we do it often, and for good reason. Maymont Park is one of the most beautiful, historic locations for a Richmond engagement session. It has so much variety—gardens, fountains, open green spaces, and even some architectural elements if you want that more structured look. You really could spend an entire session there.

But here’s the thing… Maymont closes at 7, which (this time of year) is just a little too early to catch all of the golden sunset light we love. So we start there, explore all the best spots, and then when the park politely kicks us out over the loudspeaker (and the cars start circling), we hop over to Byrd Park.

And specifically—the historic Carillon.

The Historic Carillon

It’s literally a two-minute drive, and it completely changes the feel of the session. The Carillon and the steps give you this iconic, historic Richmond backdrop, and the way the light hits at sunset? It’s just so, so good. You get the softness and glow that you miss at Maymont, plus a totally different vibe to round out the gallery. It really feels like you’re getting two sides of Richmond in one session.

And Caitlin and Joe absolutely made the most of it.

From the second we started, they were like, “Okay, what do we do?” before immediately just posing themselves. They picked up on everything so quickly. Normally we’re guiding, demonstrating, helping people settle in, but with them, it felt like after the first couple of minutes, they were completely in it. Natural, comfortable, and honestly just so fun to photograph.

We always joke that one of the perks of having both of us there is that we can model poses and walk you through everything—but they barely needed us. They were just that easy. And also just… the sweetest. We cannot wait for their wedding day.

Spring in Richmond Va – Maymont Park Historic Carillon Engagement

Now, this session almost didn’t happen like this. We had to reschedule multiple times. Originally, we were aiming for winter, but instead of a dreamy snowfall, Richmond gave us ice, freezing rain, and just overall miserable conditions.

And honestly, this is exactly why we always say that if you can, aim for spring or fall for your Richmond engagement session.

Spring in Richmond is unmatched. Everything is green and blooming, the flowers are incredible, and the weather (when it cooperates) is just perfect. It’s the reason our calendar fills up so quickly this time of year. And while rescheduling can feel frustrating in the moment, sessions like this are always worth the wait.

Caitlin and Joe also absolutely nailed their outfits. They went with two looks, and it was such a good balance. One a little more classic and polished, the other more relaxed but still put together. And most importantly, it felt like them. Comfortable, natural, and true to who they are, which always photographs best.

This whole session just came together in the best way! From the historic beauty of Maymont Park to the sunset glow at the Richmond Carillon in Byrd Park, to a couple who made everything feel easy.

Caitlin and Joe, we’re so excited for what’s ahead and cannot wait for your wedding day.

For now, enjoy a few of our many favorites!

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