This Jester Park session with Nicole and Rafal was nothing short of a comedy show in the best way possible and we loved every second of it.
Nicole and Rafal have been together for five years and recently got engaged (during a Florida timeshare presentation, no less). Their story started way back in high school when Rafal accidentally elbowed Nicole in the mouth during gym class. Spoiler alert: it resulted in braces and, eventually, a lifelong connection.
We met up for a mini engagement session and were instantly greeted with the kind of energy that makes you forget it’s your first time in front of a professional camera. From the get-go, they were laughing, teasing each other, and letting their playful, chaotic-good dynamic shine through. Whether it was Nicole’s windblown hair (timing her hair prep didn’t quite go to plan) or Rafal’s Stepbrothers-style head tilt moment, every second felt real, funny, and so them.
Even though they confessed they weren’t “posers,” they nailed every shot. Their chemistry, their laughter, and the genuine way they look at each other made this session one we won’t forget. Ashley worked her usual magic behind the camera, guiding them through poses while keeping things quick and light—perfect for two people who prefer laughter over long, romantic gazes.
Also worth noting: these two adore their cat, Penelope. She didn’t make a cameo at the park, but we’re certain she’ll approve of the photos.
a note from nicole + rafal:
"Ashley and Hailee felt more like our friends than a professional photographer and content creator duo! We were always hesitant to get even a mini-picture session because we didn't think we could take ourselves seriously enough for such a cute, romantic happening and for that reason straight up decided against an engagement shoot altogether early on in our engagement because of this. Boy, were we wrong - we were blown away by how comfortable we felt with Ashley and Hailee . We haven't seen the pictures yet, but we just KNOW that they encapsulated our energy perfectly!"
Also worth noting: these two adore their cat, Penelope. She didn’t make a cameo at the park, but we’re certain she’ll approve of the photos.
Nicole and Rafal, thank you for trusting us with your engagement session—even after originally deciding not to have one. We’re so glad you changed your minds. You brought joy, spontaneity, and all the "silly goofy energy" we could ask for. We can’t wait for you to see how all that magic turned out on camera!
Des Moines, Iowa Engagement Photographer
Looking for romantic, relaxed engagement photos in Des Moines, Iowa? We’re now booking sessions in central Iowa and beyond — reach out and let’s plan your perfect session!