Cherry Blossom Sunrise in Chicago | Julia + OJ

There’s something magical about Chicago at sunrise. The city slowly wakes up, bathed in golden light, and for a brief moment, everything feels calm and still. That quiet beauty was the perfect backdrop for Julia and OJ’s early morning session at the Japanese cherry blossom trees near the Museum of Science and Industry.


We met just as the first light crept over Lake Michigan, casting a dreamy glow on the cherry blossoms in full bloom around Jackson Park's Columbia Basin. These trees are a springtime treasure—soft pink petals fluttering gently in the breeze, reflecting in the water, creating a scene that felt like a storybook.


Julia and OJ brought such a sweet, romantic energy to the session. Wrapped in a cozy blanket and warm smiles, they laughed, danced, and soaked in every peaceful moment together. Their connection is effortless—playful and tender—and the early morning quiet let us truly slow down and capture it in a way that felt natural and intimate.


The cherry blossoms only last for a short window each spring, and being there during peak bloom felt like a gift. I always say the best light is early light, and this session was proof. The combination of golden hour and pastel petals was breathtaking—and Julia’s soft dress in the breeze? Perfection.


Sessions like this remind me why I do what I do. It’s about more than just pretty pictures—it’s about preserving memories of quiet mornings, gentle laughter, and love blooming right alongside nature.


Julia and OJ, thank you for waking up before the sun with me and trusting me to document your story in such a magical place. You two are a joy, and I’m so honored to have captured this chapter for you.

A couple in light colored outfits having a romantic picnic by a lakeside on a sunny afternoon.
A couple shares an intimate moment in black and white while embracing on a bridge with trees in the background.
A couple walks together on a dirt path at sunset in a park during autumn.
A romantic spring engagement photo of a couple embracing under cherry blossoms at sunset.
A romantic moment between a couple in springtime by a tranquil pond with blooming cherry blossoms above.
A romantic spring scene under blooming cherry trees beside a lake during golden hour lighting.
Couple embraces by tranquil lake with neoclassical Museum of Science and Industry reflected in water at Jackson Park Chicago.
A romantic couple embraces under a blooming tree during golden hour, with her wearing a pink floral dress and him in khakis.
A couple embraces under blooming cherry blossoms with golden lanterns glowing in the soft evening light.