Just 30 minutes from Minneapolis, Lebanon Hills Regional Park is one of my favorite outdoor nature engagement session locations. It’s a sprawling 1,869-acre regional park with tall grasses, wildflowers, lakes, and quiet trails. Growing up hiking here, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for this park and love sharing it with couples. It’s the perfect place to fully immerse in nature and let its calm atmosphere set the stage for our time together.
Recently, I had the chance to photograph my friend Ruth and her fiancé, Vlad. Ruth and I go way back—we were neighbors over ten years ago! After years of supporting my photography journey, it was finally her turn to step in front of my camera, and I couldn’t have been more excited!!
It’s completely normal to feel a little awkward or nervous at the start of a photoshoot. I remember when Ruth first arrived, she laughed and admitted, “I feel like I don’t know what to do with my hands!” Almost everyone feels a bit unsure at first—even with a friend behind the camera. That’s why I take time to ease into things, using prompts and gentle direction to help you relax and settle into flattering light. Sometimes, I’ll suggest a movement or playful interaction; other times, I step back, allowing you space to be present together. It’s a co-created experience—just a date night at the park, just with a photographer friend. Before you know it, those nerves melt away, and we’re capturing lovely moments.
Our Minnesota engagement session was shot on 100% real film (classic Portra 800). We had the warmest sunset light, casting a dreamy glow, and the wildflowers were in full bloom. Sometimes, it’s easy to look to Pinterest for inspiration, but there’s only so much a photo board can do. The real magic unfolds when a couple relaxes, feels confident, and is willing to be vulnerable. I hope you feel that when you look through their film.
100% Real 35mm film Engagement Gallery
“I can not say enough amazing things about Brianna and her photography! I saw all of her photos on her website, so I had no doubt that she knows how to use a camera or edit a photo, but what really made the difference is she directs SO well! I have had so many photographers tell me to just ‘switch it up,’ but Brianna studied my Pinterest board and helped direct us from one perfect Pinterest pose into the next! The smiles and laughs came naturally because Brianna made us feel so confident and comfortable. I am the kind of person to freeze up in front of the camera, so I am still in shock at the photos Brianna was able to capture! I was very close to asking a friend to take some photos for us to save some money, but I am so, so thankful we went with Brianna. These pictures will be in my house forever, and I don’t regret a penny! I would highly recommend Brianna to anyone looking for a photographer!”
Looking For A Minneapolis Film Engagement Photographer?
Well thanks for scrolling all the way to the bottom! My name is Brianna Kirk, and I’m a hybrid film and digital engagement photographer based out of Minneapolis, Minnesota available for destination travel. I love using my art to archive your memories with a documentary approach, blending it with a timeless and editorial film aesthetic. If you like my style and want to chat more, contact me today or let’s connect on Instagram.
