Twig & Olive
UW ARBORETUM • MADISON, WI

Always Laughing: A UW Arboretum Playful Engagement

Some couples sit close and whisper. Others can’t get through a single prompt without completely losing it. This UW Arboretum playful engagement session was the latter, and we loved every second of it.

Couple laughing and walking hand in hand through blooming trees at the UW Arboretum by Twig & Olive Photography

The Hip Bump That Won the Gallery

We use playful prompts during couples sessions because they cut through the nerves fast. With these two, we didn’t have to try very hard. A hip bump turned into full-on laughter, and that laughter turned into the favorite image from the entire gallery. The black and white version is the one they keep coming back to.

“Hands down would be the black and white of us laughing after the hip bump. It captures us honestly the best, laughing at myself then Brad laughing at me. We are always laughing at each other (mostly Brad at me) or laughing together.” That kind of feedback is why we do what we do. When someone sees themselves in a photo, not a posed version of themselves, we know we got it right.

The UW Arboretum gave us the perfect backdrop for all of it. The paths are wide enough that you can walk and talk without feeling boxed in, and the trees were full and green, filtering the light into something soft and even. We shot loose and wide to let their energy fill the frame. If you’re looking for a fun engagement session at the UW Arboretum, this is the kind of spot that practically does the work for you. Show up, be yourselves, and the photos take care of themselves.

That’s what we look for in every couples session. Not perfection. Connection. These two had it in spades, and honestly, relaxed couples like this are when we do our best work. Check out more of our couples photography portfolio to see what we mean.

Frequently Asked Questions about Engagement Sessions at the UW Arboretum

Is the UW Arboretum a good location for engagement photos?

It’s one of our favorites in the Madison area. The paths wind through a mix of open meadows and tree-lined stretches, so you get variety without having to drive anywhere. Golden hour here is especially good because the canopy filters the light beautifully.

How do we book a couples session with Twig & Olive?

Just reach out through our contact page and tell us a little about yourselves. We’ll help you pick the right spot and time of day to get the best light for your session.

Your Story, Our Craft

Looking for Couple Photos That Actually Feel Like You Two?

Let’s find the light, the spot, and the vibe that feels like the two of you.

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