Two figures in black dresses dance together among fallen autumn leaves in a moody cemetery setting at dusk.

"No measure of time with you will be long enough. But let's start with forever."

When Sequoia first reached out through my website, she told me she wanted to book a couple’s session on Friday the 13th to celebrate her and her partner’s elopement. Immediately, I was in.

She had found me through my Facebook page and said she knew I was the photographer to capture the moody, spooky vibe she was envisioning. As someone who loves all things a little dark and non-traditional, it felt completely meant to be.

There was really only one place that made sense: Spring Grove Cemetery.

Founded in 1845, it’s a 700+ acre National Historic Landmark filled with rolling hills, winding roads, ornate monuments, and quiet lakes. It feels less like a cemetery and more like a hidden garden tucked into the heart of Cincinnati — peaceful, cinematic, and perfect for a Friday the 13th love story.

When I met Sequoia and Lani the day of the session, it was instantly clear how deeply they adore each other. We talked through a loose timeline for the evening, and then we simply let it unfold.

Like many of my couples, they told me they’d never had professional photos taken before. And honestly? I never would have guessed.

Their chemistry flowed so effortlessly that I barely had to direct anything. I mostly stepped back and documented — letting their laughter, quiet pauses, and in-between glances tell the story.

A woman in a black gothic dress poses dramatically in an outdoor setting with autumn trees in the background.
Silhouetted romantic couple sharing an intimate kiss in dramatic side lighting creating a moody atmosphere.
A profile silhouette of a woman with red lipstick against a golden autumn background creates a dramatic contrast.

The entire session felt easy. As we wandered through the grounds, conversation unfolded naturally, and we quickly realized we shared more than just a creative vision. From tattoos to favorite books to the movies that shaped us, it felt less like I was photographing strangers and more like I was spending the evening with old friends.

That’s one of the things I love most about photography — the unexpected connections. The chance to meet people I may have never crossed paths with otherwise, and to witness their story up close. There’s something sacred about that kind of trust.

At the end of the day, photography like this comes down to exactly that.

Trust to be seen.

Trust to be documented as you are.

Trust that the small, unscripted moments are enough

Black and white image showing detailed leg tattoo artwork being photographed on someone wearing dark stockings.
Black and white photo of legs in high heeled sandals and garter belt details against a dark background.
Dramatic silhouette portrait with golden rim lighting creates an artistic and moody atmosphere in darkness.
Gothic stone mausoleum silhouetted against a moody sunset sky with bare winter trees in the foreground.

Sequoia and Lani gave me that trust, and in return, I got to preserve a chapter of their story exactly as it unfolded — moody skies, winding paths, and all.

And that’s the kind of storytelling I’ll choose, every time.

If you’re craving something honest and a little unconventional, I’m always in.

Two women in black dresses pose together in an outdoor wooded setting with autumn leaves on the ground.
A person in black clothing bends over a snowy surface near a dark stone building in dramatic lighting.
Two women in dark gothic-inspired outfits pose intimately against dark background with dramatic makeup and styling.