I knew as soon as I heard from Devon, that this session was going to be extra special! He contacted me out of the blue in March to set up a first-time photo session to surprise his girlfriend of 5 years. It was going to be their anniversary when they arrived in Key West aboard a Carnival cruise ship. Neither had been here before, and coming from Pennsylvania, they were ready for some warm, tropical vibes.
Devon was new to photo shoots and decided they’d do an individual shoot of each of them and then some images of them together as a couple. Fun! After giving me a “signal”, to be determined at a later time, he’d drop down on one knee and ask his girlfriend, Monet, to be his wife….swoon!
We coordinated all the details and decided on the location, time to meet, what to wear, and all the other final specifics….right down to a bottle of champagne to toast the special occasion.
We met at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park as soon as they opened the gates on Tuesday, June 18th. We had to get there as early as possible to beat the harsh South Florida sunshine. They were dressed to impress and anxious to get started….and we were too!
My daughter, Bailey Breton, has always had a strong passion for photography and serves as my partner in my photography business. She was lead photographer for this particular session. I was there to assist and work side-by-side with her to get all the optimal shots to capture this momentous occasion.
We found a slightly shaded spot and started there with Devon. He was a true natural at this stuff! He fell right into place and made all of us laugh instantly! His personality is truly infectious and joyful. Bailey and I had an absolute blast shooting his pictures…and trust me…we had so many great ones to choose from!!!!
As I switched up some gear, Devon let me know that when he gives two thumbs up….it’s time! Bailey and I were both ready and excited to be part of this special, life-long memory about to be made!
Next up was his beautiful girlfriend, Monet. I could sense some nerves and anxiousness, but within seconds, she proved us completely wrong. She fell right into place posing and taking queues. She is a TRUE natural at having her photo taken! Monet blossomed and started dancing as the music played in the background….loved it!!! (tip…I would highly recommend playing music on a portable speaker to put everyone at ease)
Now that all the nerves were gone…we started the couple shots. By this time, we didn’t have to give many pointers because they were taking the lead in posing. As we approached closer to the beach (thanks to some much needed cloud cover), we were given the “signal”…YAY! Bailey was taken the still shots and I grabbed my Canon G7X to video this much anticipated proposal!
To say this moment was special is a complete understatement. All of us were in tears as Devon expressed his love and desire to spend the rest of his life with his partner of the last 5 years. Of course, she said yes……and the RING….gorgeous! Nice work Devon! It truly respresents the love the two of you share and will continue to share for a lifetime to come. Congratulations! Time to pop some bubbly and celebrate this moment!
We formed a new friendship in these short couple of hours that I’m truly hoping will last a life-time!! Bailey and I felt like we’ve known Devon and Monet for many, many years and left them on a high that cannot be described. We can only hope that our paths cross again someday in life, whether that’s back in Key West to celebrate an anniversary or family vacation, or up north in Pennsylvania. It would be our privilege to serve them as clients – and friends – again!
When the session was over, we dropped them off at the iconic lower Duval Street so they could do a little bit of souvenir shopping before boarding back on their Carnival cruise to their next stop….Mexico!
Devon contacted me after receiving all the images to see if he could leave a review for our services. Flattered, I said absolutely!! Below are Devon and Monet’s comments about their experience with HDD Photography. We hope this encourages any of you that are visiting Key West to allow us to serve you in capturing YOUR special memory.
““HDD Photography is merely fantastic! They are more than photographers. From the beginning through to the end, they offered endless support, advice, and guidance, which played a huge role because it was our first photo shoot experience. On the day itself, we felt in safe hands, and it was like having two friends there with you! Their expertise and professionalism shined through, allowing you to relax and create a memorable experience! We couldn’t be happier with the results. If you’re thinking about booking them, DO IT! You won’t be disappointed. They have captured memories we will truly cherish forever.” ”
Thanks and Congratulations again Devon and Monet! Best wishes to both of you from HDD Photography!!!
~Heather & Bailey
