Chris Withers Photography

I had the pleasure of hanging out with Sam and Shea as we roamed around a few spots that had sentimental meaning to them.

One of the things I loved most about hearing their story is that it didn’t begin in one perfect, predictable moment. Their paths crossed in little ways long before their relationship officially began.

Mutual connections, passing moments, and even Shea’s loud truck with dual pipes all somehow became part of the background of their story before either of them fully knew where it was heading.

Their relationship really started at the gym, which honestly feels perfectly fitting for them. Sam had just finished squatting an extremely heavy weight, hit his max, and Shea came up behind him and said, “Do it again.” That somehow turned into a 15-minute conversation, which eventually became one of those moments where you realize you’re probably talking way too much at the gym.

A few days later, Shea walked into Supplement Superstore, where Sam was working, and the conversation picked right back up. They ended up talking for roughly two hours during a snowstorm and made plans to go to Twisted Ranch in St. Louis. A couple days later, they actually made it happen, turning their first real date into a trip to another state.

On the drive there and back, they talked about everything — the kind of deep, honest, completely unfiltered conversations most people probably avoid on a first date. But for them, it worked. From there, the rest is history, and according to Shea, they’ve never really stopped talking.

That kind of connection is exactly what I love photographing. Not just two people standing together for a picture, but two people with a real story, real humor, and a real rhythm between them.

I immediately got along with Sam and Shea. They had such a comfortable energy, and I loved how excited they were to create great photos. They were open to direction, willing to try ideas, and easy to connect with from the start.

We also had the pleasure of meeting their adorable dog, Sasha. She was so chill, friendly, and calm. I loved her peaceful energy, and she fit right into the feeling of the evening.

After we documented some meaningful moments at Centennial Park, we mixed in a little of Sam and Shea’s love for competition and headed over to Malibu Jack’s. They both enjoy the arcade, so we let them have some fun together and just be in the moment. That is always one of my favorite things to photograph — people enjoying each other naturally instead of trying to force something for the camera.

After the arcade, we snuck over to the Capitol after dark and created one of my favorite portraits of the night. It was simple, romantic, and dramatic, with nothing but car headlights illuminating them.

I’m grateful to know Sam and Shea, and I’m thankful they trusted Jessica and me to be part of such an important milestone.
I look forward to seeing how their love continues to grow, how many happy memories they create together, and how their story continues to unfold from here.

I want to take a moment to thank Emma for allowing us to capture such a special milestone in her life.

We had an amazing time roaming around the beautiful UIS campus, finding unique spots and creating graduation portraits that felt personal, polished, and full of excitement for what’s ahead.

Emma, I wish you nothing but success, happiness, and all the positive momentum in the world as you step into your future in business. I have no doubt you’re going to do incredible things.

Congratulations again, and I hope you love this sneak peek!