Rupom and Mahbuba’s engagement session was a delightful reminder of how love flourishes in the ordinary. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Long Island City, our time together was filled with laughter, warmth, and a genuine connection that needed no props or grand settings. It was all about them, enjoying each other’s company in a city that never sleeps but occasionally stops to appreciate the simple joys of life.

A Stroll Through Long Island City

We kicked off our adventure with a stroll through the neighborhood, where the bustling energy of NYC serves as the perfect soundtrack for romance. The couple’s chemistry was palpable as they walked hand in hand, stealing glances and sharing inside jokes that only they understood. We made our first stop at a cozy coffee shop—one of their favorite local Queens spots. Watching them sip their drinks, exchanging sweet smiles, and enjoying each other’s company felt like capturing a scene from a romantic film, with the essence of their relationship radiating through every frame.

Bookstore Engagement Photos

Next, we headed to their beloved Book Culture LIC (it reminded me of this session I photographed at New York Public Library) where we stopped to peruse the shelves. The bookstore, brimming with stories and adventure, mirrored their own love story—a narrative filled with laughter, late-night conversations, and shared dreams. The fact that they had already been there earlier that day only added to the authenticity of our session. It felt like a natural extension of their life together, emphasizing how their love is intertwined with these little moments of joy.

Capturing the Little Things

These types of sessions are what truly inspire me as a photographer, especially when I get to work with couples who understand that love is in the details—the stolen glances, the laughter over coffee, the shared excitement of discovering a new book. It’s about showcasing your unique story in a way that feels real and genuine.

As I said on Instagram…

“I have believed for a very long time that your engagement photos should look and feel like you, but I’m also starting to become a bit more radical (shocking to all who know me, I’m sure) and even believe that your engagement session shouldn’t feel like a photo shoot at all 🤷‍♀️ It should simply feel like the most natural, easy, + romantic date night 🕯️🚕💕📖☕️

It should be your favorite iced coffee drink and reading to each other in the back of the bookstore, and there’s that familiar little tinge of magic in the air 💖 The barista offers you a free day old croissant. You run into an old friend. The book you’ve been searching for everywhere is finally in stock. Signed copy! A neighbor compliments your shoes. The trains come on time.

Rupom + Mahbuba planned the perfect late summer afternoon date in Queens, bip bopping down Jackson Ave in LIC. It was perfect for me because this is actually one of ✨my✨ favorite solo date activities too hehehe (okayyy so I’m the one who suggested these particular spots). It’s such a lovely bike ride or run from my apartment, and if I’m feeling really crazy, I’ll even add a trip to the nearby Trader Joe’s (especially now that their fall stuff is out 😋🍁).”

+ see more on instagram HERE.

An Invitation to NYC Couples

For all the NYC couples out there looking for an engagement photographer, if you believe that your love is best captured in the little things—the coffee runs, the strolls through your favorite neighborhoods, the quiet moments that say a thousand words—let’s create something beautiful together! I want to document your journey and the core memories you’re building, just like I did for Rupom and Mahbuba. Because your love story deserves to be told in a way that reflects the everyday magic of your life together. So, whether you’re wandering the streets of Manhattan, enjoying a picnic in Central Park, or curling up with coffee and a good book, let’s capture those moments that make your relationship uniquely yours.

Reach out, and let’s create your own adventure—one filled with love, laughter, and the extraordinary beauty of your everyday life. Follow along on my journey and see more love stories on Instagram and Pinterest!