VMFA and Virginia State Capitol Engagement Session in Richmond, Virginia

Oct 3, 2024
3 min read

Updated: Jan 30

Bruna & Thiago Engagement Session

Some engagement sessions stay with you long after you pack up your cameras — and Bruna & Thiago’s session was absolutely one of those.

From the very beginning, this session felt light, joyful, and completely effortless. Between the laughter, movement, and genuine connection they share, everything unfolded naturally. What made these images truly special wasn’t just the beautiful light or the elegant locations — it was the energy Bruna and Thiago brought into every moment.

They’re the kind of couple whose joy is contagious. Bruna’s vibrant presence paired with Thiago’s easygoing warmth created a session filled with laughter, spontaneity, and so much heart.

VMFA Engagement Photos in Richmond, Virginia

We began their engagement session at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA), one of my favorite engagement locations in Richmond. The open space, soft light, and clean architectural lines gave their photos a relaxed, modern feel.

Bruna and Thiago moved through the space laughing, dancing, and simply enjoying being together — including a spontaneous moment dancing to “We’re All in This Together” (a High School Musical moment I will never forget). As golden hour approached, the light wrapped around them perfectly, creating images that felt warm, joyful, and full of life.

The VMFA is ideal for couples who want engagement photos that feel editorial but still playful — structured without feeling stiff.

Virginia State Capitol Engagement Session

From there, we transitioned to the Virginia State Capitol for a more refined and timeless look. This location always delivers, and once again, it did not disappoint.

The Capitol’s architecture provided the perfect contrast to the openness of the VMFA. Bruna and Thiago chose an elegant, classic style for this part of the session, allowing the clean lines and historic details to elevate their images without overpowering their connection.

This combination of locations — modern art spaces paired with historic architecture — created a beautifully balanced engagement gallery that felt intentional and cohesive.

Choosing Engagement Locations That Reflect Your Style

One of my favorite things about engagement sessions is helping couples choose locations that feel true to who they are. Bruna and Thiago’s session was a perfect example of how mixing different environments can tell a fuller story.

By pairing the VMFA with the Virginia State Capitol, their engagement photos captured both movement and elegance — joy and calm — all within one session.

As a Richmond wedding photographer, I always encourage couples to think about how they want their session to feel, not just how they want it to look.

A Joyful Beginning to What’s Ahead

Bruna & Thiago, thank you for trusting me to document this season of your lives. Photographing your engagement session was such a joy, and I’m already counting down the days until your wedding next July.

If this session is any indication, your wedding day will be filled with laughter, connection, and unforgettable moments — and I can’t wait to capture it all.

If you’re still exploring locations, you can view more options in my Richmond engagement locations guide.

The open grounds of the VMFA allow engagement sessions to feel relaxed, playful, and full of movement.

Soft light and clean lines at the VMFA create images that feel modern while still warm and inviting.

Transitioning to the Virginia State Capitol brings a timeless, architectural elegance to the session.

More Richmond Engagements

An engagement session at the VMFA and the Virginia State Capitol offers a thoughtful mix of openness and structure. Together, these locations allow connection to feel natural, unforced, and deeply personal.