Summer Engagement | Golden Hour at The Slit Barn | Grand River | Cambridge, ON

J+R’s summer engagement at The Slit Barn in Cambridge, Ontario

A golden-hour engagement in Cambridge

J and R’s summer engagement session at The Slit Barn was everything I love about golden hour. We started by the old barn and its vine-covered silo, wandered down to the Grand River, and finished with the sun setting over a field full of wildflowers.

The barn and the silo

The weathered barn and the old silo wrapped in vines made the perfect backdrop for the first part of the session. She wore a flowy white dress and he wore a light blue button-up, soft colours that looked beautiful against the tall summer grass. We also found an old stone wall with a wooden door, and a patch of lawn under the trees for a twirl or two.

Down by the river

For a second look they changed into something more casual: a white shirt and jeans for her, a black tee for him. We walked down to the edge of the river, where they sat together on the rocks, and he gave her a piggyback along the bank.

Sunset in the wildflowers

We saved the best light for last. A field full of Queen Anne’s lace glowed in the evening sun, and the two of them could not stop laughing. We ended with a silhouette against the sky, one of my favourite ways to finish a session.

Tips for a golden-hour engagement session

1. Book for golden hour. The hour before sunset gives you that warm, glowing light.
2. Bring a second outfit. A quick change gives your gallery two different feels.
3. Choose a spot with variety. A barn, a river and a field within a short walk make for a relaxed session.

Planning a Cambridge wedding? See more of my favourite spots as a Cambridge wedding photographer, or read my Cambridge Mill wedding guide for another favourite on the Grand River.