Makenzie and DJ’s downtown Birmingham engagement session was one of those evenings that felt easy from the very beginning. Between the soft light, the beautiful scenery, and how comfortable they were together, the entire session flowed so naturally.
This session was extra special for me because Makenzie isn’t just one of my brides — she’s also my hairdresser and someone I’ve trusted for years. She’s truly my go-to person, and getting to photograph this season of life for her made it even more meaningful.
Check out her business by clicking HERE!
How We Met
I actually met Makenzie sitting in her salon chair — and from the very first appointment, I knew she was someone special. Over time, she became my go-to hair girl, but also someone I love recommending to my own brides.
Now, she’s one of the first people I suggest when couples ask about bridal hair and makeup, because I know how talented, calming, and professional she is on wedding days. Being able to photograph her engagement session felt like such a full-circle moment.
Downtown Birmingham Engagement Session
Makenzie and DJ wanted an engagement session that felt relaxed and natural. They were open to exploring downtown Birmingham and trusted me with location ideas, which allowed us to create a session that felt both timeless and fun.
We started around downtown and then made our way to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, which is always one of my favorite spots for engagement photos. The greenery, pathways, and soft textures photograph beautifully and give couples so much variety without feeling overly posed.
Because we kept things moving and conversational, the session never felt stiff. Instead, it felt like a walk through the city with a lot of laughing in between.
Natural, Comfortable Engagement Photos
Makenzie and DJ wanted a good mix of classic portraits and candid moments. They didn’t want anything overly serious or forced — and that really showed throughout the session.
We focused on movement, connection, and letting them be themselves. Those quiet smiles, small laughs, and in-between moments are always my favorite because they tell the story exactly as it felt.
Their chemistry made photographing them incredibly easy, and every frame reflected how comfortable they are together.
Why Downtown Birmingham Is Perfect for Engagement Photos
Downtown Birmingham offers such a great mix of scenery in a short amount of time. You can get clean architecture, city textures, and lush greenery all within one session.
Pairing downtown locations with the Birmingham Botanical Gardens gives couples the best of both worlds — urban and romantic — without needing to travel far. It’s one of my favorite combinations for engagement sessions in Alabama.
So Excited for Their Wedding Day
Getting to photograph Makenzie and DJ’s engagement session made me even more excited for their wedding day. Knowing Makenzie both personally and professionally has made this experience so special, and I’m beyond honored that she trusted me to capture this season for them.
These are the kinds of sessions that remind me why I love what I do — documenting real people, real connections, and meaningful relationships.
Planning an Engagement Session in Birmingham?
If you’re looking for a downtown Birmingham engagement photographer or want a session that feels natural, relaxed, and true to you, I would love to help you plan it.
You can learn more at kristasuzanne.com — I can’t wait to connect with you.
