From The Iconic Architecture Of The Milwaukee Art Museum, To The Sandy Shores Of Lake Michigan


There’s something about an Atwater Beach engagement session that just hits different. Maybe it’s the sound of the waves rolling in from Lake Michigan, or the way the golden light catches the shore at just the right angle. Whatever it is, it made the perfect setting for Tabitha & Owen’s adventure-filled session, complete with windblown hair, laughter, and some seriously stunning views.


We kicked things off at the Milwaukee Art Museum, one of my all-time favorite spots for engagement photos. The crisp white lines of the Calatrava-designed architecture paired with Tabitha & Owen’s classic style made for some striking images. Spring was in full bloom on this still very crisp day.


They leaned into the moment—walking hand in hand along the promenade. And even though the spring wind was doing its best to throw us off course, these two embraced the spontaneity and had fun with it. (Pro tip: wind = instant model hair!)


From there, we made our way to Atwater Beach, and if you’ve never been, let me paint a picture for you. You start at the top of a bluff with sweeping views of Lake Michigan stretching as far as the eye can see. Then, a (very long, you will get some steps in) staircase leads you down to the sandy shoreline, where the city fades away, and it’s just you, the water, and the horizon. It’s the perfect mix of romantic and adventurous, which, coincidentally, describes Tabitha & Owen perfectly.

White church steeple rises against blue sky with soft-focus cherry blossoms in foreground.

Embracing The Elements Of A Wisconsin Spring Engagement Session


Spring in Milwaukee can be a little unpredictable, and the wind off the lake was *definitely* making its presence known that evening. But rather than fight it, we embraced it. Which made for some of the most authentic, intimate moments of the session. There’s something so special about seeing a couple just *be* together—laughing, hugging, soaking in the moment.


One of my favorite shots of the night? (It is that top banner photo!) These two standing on one of the old piers, the sky moody and dramatic behind them, completely lost in each other. That’s what a good Atwater Beach engagement is all about—letting go of perfection and leaning into the experience.

Power lines crisscross against a blue sky with modern skyscrapers and construction cranes in the background.

The Experience


Tabitha & Owen were absolute naturals in front of the camera, but they’ll be the first to tell you they were a little nervous at the start. (Totally normal, by the way!) That’s where I come in—I guided them with easy, natural prompts that let their personalities shine. Whether it was a silly joke or a more quiet moment, every shot felt like *them*.


Here’s what they had to say about the session:


“We absolutely loved working with Derrick! He made us feel so comfortable for the entire experience. He guided us when we weren’t sure how to pose and had an expert eye for unique and beautiful locations! Our photos came out absolutely beautiful and we can’t stop looking at them. We highly recommend Derrick for any of your photography needs for his talent behind the camera and his warm personality throughout the entire experience!”

Romantic couple embraces against a dreamy pink sunset sky with wispy clouds in the background.
A romantic couple stands together on coastal rocks at the beach during sunset with ocean stretching to the horizon.
A romantic couple embraces on the beach during sunset with the ocean waves in the background.
Close-up macro shot of small white daisy flower growing from textured driftwood surface.
A silhouetted couple shares an intimate moment against a dramatic cloudy sky at dusk.

Planning Your Own Atwater Beach Engagement Session?


If you’re dreaming of engagement photos that feel natural, romantic, and a little bit adventurous, Atwater Park is an incredible spot. Whether you want a sunset stroll along the beach or a windswept moment on the bluff, this location delivers every time.


Thinking about your own Milwaukee engagement session?


Let’s chat! I’d love to hear all about your vision and help you create something unforgettable.


In the meantime, enjoy some of my favorite images from Tabitha & Owen’s beautiful day!

The Milwaukee Art Museum's distinctive white architectural wings rise against a blue sky with spring blossoms in frame.
White spring cherry blossoms blooming against a bright blue sky with wispy clouds.
A romantic couple stands on a balcony with church spires and spring blossoms in the background on a sunny day.
A romantic couple embrace in front of the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris on a bright cloudy day.
Couple dancing together on a modern white bridge walkway with a tall spire structure in the background.
A couple stands together on a white modern bridge walkway against a bright cloudy sky.
Romantic moment on a modern pedestrian bridge with striking architectural details and cloudy blue sky.
Urban skyline view with downtown skyscrapers and power lines crossing the frame against a blue cloudy sky.
A couple stands on a brick walkway with Milwaukee's iconic Art Museum and downtown skyline visible in the background.
Couple shares an intimate moment while standing on rocky coastal outcropping by the ocean.