This Elora Mill engagement holds a special place in my heart. Having previously worked with Jack’s family, capturing his sister’s and mother’s weddings at other Pearle Hospitality locations, it was an honour to continue the tradition with Jack and his fiancée, Quinn. We incorporated so many diverse backdrops during our session around Elora Mill, including the charming village and the natural landscape – all within walking distance.

Why Was This Elora Mill Engagement So Special to Me?

I had the pleasure of working with Jack’s family for the first time a couple of years ago when I photographed the wedding of Jack’s sister, Nicki, and her husband, Brandon. Since then, they have been interested in Pearle Weddings locations and have chosen Cambridge Mill for their wedding.

The following year, I also photographed the wedding of Jack and Nicki’s mother, Ginnie, and her husband, Malcolm. They chose to celebrate their New Year’s wedding at Whistle Bear Golf Club.

Jack and his fiancée, Quinn, also chose Whistle Bear Golf Club for their wedding. However, they decided to have their pre-wedding session at Elora Mill, a choice that led to a truly memorable experience.

White Dress in Summer

We planned to have their engagement photoshoot in the late afternoon to take advantage of the soft light. We also decided to take pictures during dinner time to avoid having too many people in the background. Quinn and Jack chose to wear white, which created a soft and natural look for the photos, allowing the beauty of the surroundings to stand out without any distracting, colourful outfits.

We had anticipated that the area around Elora Mill would be crowded with visitors and photographers. So, instead, we started taking most of our pictures on the main street in front of the mill. Though Quinn and Jack were a bit nervous at first, I had worked with them and their families before, and I knew that their nervousness would quickly disappear as soon as we started having fun and they were able to be themselves.

Casual Stroll Through Elora Mill

We crossed the bridge over the Grand River and headed to the open chapel located at Elora Mill. I knew that their plan was not limited to the Elora Mill and its surrounding areas but extended to the entire city of Elora. So, when I noticed them feeling more at ease, I began requesting to explore more places across the city.
Using the time and moments when we were moving from place to place, I enjoyed the elevation of the city and the different angles that I could capture just by walking with Quinn and Jack.
Once we went into the forest around the mill, I realized it would be lovely to take more intimate photos of them here.
I moved away from them and allowed them to enjoy the place and time together. However, I continued to take photos from a distance, which allowed me to capture some stunning shots.

By the Grand River at Elora Gorge

When I ask my clients to go to locations that are not easily accessible or hard to reach, I always try to go ahead of them and see if it is too much for them. In this instance, Quinn was a bit uncomfortable with the high, steep stairs going into the gorge, but I assured her that it would be worth every effort we made.
The light in the gorge was terrific. It was so soft and flattering that I could see the potential for good photos wherever I looked. Once they got comfortable, they started talking to each other and snuggling. Right there in front of my eyes were so many nice poses that they did them on their own, and I was perfectly positioned to capture them.
From a distance, I could sense their comfort in the setting. The gentle breeze cooled us down while they took a break from walking and enjoyed this intimate location.

The Charming Part of Elora

After taking most of the photos at the gorge, I suggested walking on the other side of Mill Street, just above the Elora Mill, where we can find some beautiful front stores.
Jack and Quinn agreed, and we began walking. It’s amazing how creative a photoshoot can be without stress or unrealistic expectations from the couple or the photographer.
I knew we had so many lovely images, but there were still many more opportunities to be found. We strolled leisurely through the charming city and stopped whenever we spotted a chance to take some unique photos. With my couple’s desires in mind, we paused for a moment and created some magical shots.

The Recipe for a Successful Engagement Session

I was so happy that we chose this time of day and this location. In the end, I was delighted to work with a couple with whom I feel comfortable and who enjoy it at the same time.
Our last location was Harlold Chamberlain Park, the small park at Mill St. W. and Metcalfe St. at Elora.
I could see that both of them were a bit tired from walking, smiling, and being in the sun for so long. However, they were still very happy and grateful that they had chosen the outfits they felt comfortable in and found a location that matched their vision.
This Elora Mill engagement was one of the most relaxed, intimate, and enjoyable pre-wedding sessions I have photographed at Elora.
The timing of the day, along with my selection of perspectives and lenses, allowed me to capture some amazing shots of Jack and Quinn.

I look forward to smiling with you at another Pearle wedding location on your wedding day.

Credits and additional information for couples that like to see more Elora Mill engagements and weddings.

Check here another Elora Mill engagement session of Jessica and Will. Here you can see Mary Ann and Russell’s Elora Mill wedding in summer. View Rochelle and Trevor winter wedding at Elora Mill and Spa.