Engagement Photo Session At Culver’s - Summer In Milwaukee


When Anna and Zach told me they wanted their engagement session at Culver’s—yes, the butter burger and custard spot we all know and love—I knew we were in for something special. Sure, I’ve shot sessions at breathtaking arboretums and elegant downtown Milwaukee venues, but there’s something undeniably charming about a couple who leans into what makes their story unique. Plus, who can say no to cheese curds and custard at golden hour? Certainly not me.


A big shoutout to the team at Culver’s for being such gracious hosts. Not only did they let us roam the custard and cheese curd-sented, butterburger estate, but their delicious food doubled as the best props we could have asked for. It’s proof that the most memorable engagement sessions happen when you’re comfortable, having fun, and being unapologetically you.

Culver's fast food takeout bags and drinks sit on a concrete ledge with a gas station visible in the background at dusk.

We kicked things off by hitting the Culver's drive-thru.


Watching Anna and Zach giggle over their order—butter burgers, fries, and their signature concrete mixers—was such a sweet way to start the session. There’s something about those little moments, like Anna sneakily stealing a fry or Zach’s dramatic decision over mixer flavors, that tells a story far better than any posed shot ever could. Sitting in their car with the windows rolled down, I captured them mid-laugh, framed by the warm glow of summer’s golden hour. I don't think any of us stopped laughing the whole time.


If you’re planning your own engagement session and thinking about a non-traditional location, take notes! Not all Culver’s are created equal, so Anna and Zach’s choice of a location with some neon signs in the background and vintage vibe was a game-changer. As the sun dipped lower, we used that glowing blue light to create some direct-flash magic. The result? Photos that feel nostalgic, timeless, and a little like a scene from an indie rom-com. It’s giving summer nights and carefree vibes—exactly what these two embody.

Two people enjoying milkshakes in a car while holding Shake Shack beverages and paper bags.
Black and white view through car side mirror showing passenger in backseat of vehicle.
Close-up view of two hands holding cheeseburgers wrapped in paper while eating together.
A black and white photo of two people sitting outside on stone steps looking at their phones while laughing together.
Two people sit on a concrete barrier at dusk along an urban street with cars and street lights in the background.
Two people sit together on a concrete wall at dusk as traffic passes by on the street below.

Culver's Did Not Disappoint


The night wrapped up with Anna and Zach sitting under the setting sun, sharing their cheese curds and savoring the last bites of custard. Between bites, they’d look at each other with joy, the kind you can’t fake. And as their photographer, getting to freeze those moments in time is what makes this job so special.


To anyone out there dreaming of engagement photos that feel authentically YOU, this is your sign (literally, find a cute neon one) to lean into locations that tell your story. Whether it’s your favorite burger joint, the park where you first met, or your kitchen counter where Saturday morning pancakes and bacon happen, the magic is in the memories.


If you’re ready to create something just as fun, nostalgic, and true to your relationship, let’s chat! As a Milwaukee engagement photographer, I’m all about helping couples craft sessions that feel real and reflective of their love story. Let’s make some magic together! —and maybe grab some custard while we’re at it.

Hand holding Culver's drink with engagement ring visible in car interior.
Passengers sitting in front seats of car during daytime drive with navigation device visible.
Close-up of a hand with an engagement ring resting on a light colored car seat.
Passenger relaxes in the backseat of a car during golden hour with natural sunlight streaming through the window.
Woman laughing while sitting in car during golden hour.
A person smiling while sitting in the driver's seat of a car.
Two people sharing milkshakes in the front seat of a car during a casual drive.
A person enjoying coffee and snacks while sitting in a Hyundai vehicle.
Two people holding milkshakes in a car interior.
Two people sharing a joyful moment while sitting in car interior.