On July 4th, I met with Hailey and Stan who had traveled all the way from Spokane to have their engagement photos taken!  We met at Pike Place, late morning, where I was expecting it to be cool and calm – I had no idea that the market would be open on such a big holiday, and of course it was crazy there!

We spent the first part of the morning in Post Alley and around the market.  The grungy part of the alley just south of the market is one of my all-time favorite photo spots – there’s something about the gorgeous red brick and the cobble stones.  The light is interesting there too, with lots of tall buildings and overhangs.

The classic alley shot, with a new color tint:

Stan proposed to Hailey at Pike Place on one of their many Seattle visits; he asked the Flying Fish guys to throw Hailey a fish, and attached was the ring!  The fish guys weren’t at the market on July 4th, so we improvised a ring shot with a metal fish on one of the columns.

After some sweet and smiley shots, I suggested they get a little “friendlier” – and that’s exactly what they did!

Back to the seats I discovered with Brandon and Colette to cool off a little …

After a quick lunch break, we headed over to Seattle Center and EMP.  I love the silver wall there … and the pink one … and the blue garage doors and the yellow sticks …  It’s just such a neat place to take photos!

I just love how relaxed they are with each other – big smiles and giggles all day long.

The obligatory pink wall jumping shot – how cool are their poses though?!

Hailey’s gorgeous engagement ring, and a yummy pastry from the market:

Right at the end of our session, I asked if they’d brave the fountain and run through the water – they were totally game for it!  Thanks Hailey and Stan for being such a fun, happy, loved-up and brave couple, and have a beautiful wedding back in Spokane in the fall!

© 2008 Kate McElwee Photography