Film Inspired Downtown Portland Engagement Photos
We had a very clear idea of what we wanted for this film inspired downtown Portland engagement photos. We wanted high fashion, editorial, and absolutely cinematic vibes. I reached out to Shantel and Darrion and slowly the pieces started to come together. Soon we had Elle Heavin Couture putting together a gorgeous Jean Paul Gaultier inspired corset that was to die for. Stevi the Hair Witch came through with the elegant updo. Shantel, talented artist that she is, naturally did her own makeup.
Like any typical shoot day, sometimes things just don’t go according to plan. The original plan was to go to the Portland Art Museum for Black History Month for that downtown, art museum vibe that we were looking for. As luck would have it, the Portland Art Museum was closed on the day that we arrived for construction. Thankfully, everyone was ready to roll with the punches. Shantel called a friend that got us into Industry 1, their mission statement is, “This is a place for those with an immigrant mindset. A first-of-its-kind commission-free gallery, this space is designed to highlight artists who don’t fit neatly into the traditional art gallery box. The goal is to explore diversity, sexuality and give back to the community—as well as the artists whose work is featured.”
Funnily enough, on our way over we were distracted by the colors and designs of the Roche Bobois showroom, and we’re graciously allowed to take some photos. From there we made our way to the Multnomah County Library which I think really rounded out our engagement photo session.
Cinematic Engagement Photos
As I was shooting, I created this narrative in my head for a truly cinematic feel. The night begins with a gala at the gallery, as any good story begins, a boy sees a girl he can’t take his eyes off of. Soon they’re gallivanting around town, making their way behind velvet ropes and VIP rooms, before making their way back to the gala at the library. There you have the epic first look down the staircase and sneaking between the book aisles for a moment alone. The night ends back at their luxurious downtown apartment
Shantel and Darrion were a riot together, just an absolute joy to be around the whole day and what troopers they were! It was a pretty cold day but Shantel pulled through and, well, you’ll see the photos.
There’s a few point and shoot 35mm film photos sprinkled in that were captured with my Olympus Mju II, can you spot them?
Film Inspired Downtown Portland Engagement Photos
Vendors
Photography: Marcela Pulido Photography
Models: Shantel & Darrion
Gown: Elle Heavin Couture
Hair: Stevi the Hair Witch
Makeup: Shantilly Artistry
Locations: Roche Bobois, Industry 1, Multnomah County Library
