Cathedral Park Engagement in Portland, Oregon // Rebecca & Jonny

Engagement photos at St. John’s Cathedral Park.

If you’ve ever been to Cathedral Park in Portland, Oregon, you know just how iconic it truly is. Tucked under the towering gothic arches of the St. Johns Bridge, this spot feels like something out of a moody romantic film. The arches – painted in that dreamy "verde green" – stretch high above, framing the scene with bold elegance. Behind them, Forest Park peeks through with its evergreens and changing maples, their leaves turning gold and rust as fall settles in. It’s the kind of place that stops you in your tracks, especially in autumn.

For Rebecca & Jonny’s Portland engagement session, Cathedral Park delivered all the magic. That classic Pacific Northwest overcast sky made an appearance, casting a soft, even light that photographers dream about. No harsh shadows, just that beautiful moody glow that makes every detail pop. And let’s talk about their outfits – perfectly neutral with cozy textures and just the right pop of warm brown. Paired with the fall backdrop? Chef’s kiss 👌. They looked like they stepped straight out of an editorial, but without trying too hard.

What stood out the most, though, wasn’t just the scenery or styling – it was them. From the moment we started shooting, they were completely in sync. No awkward posing, no stiff smiles. Just two people genuinely enjoying being with each other. There were quiet moments of laughter, playful teasing, and the kind of body language that speaks volumes. You could tell this wasn’t just a photo shoot for them – it was time carved out to slow down, breathe each other in, and soak in where they are right now in life.

That kind of connection? It's what makes engagement sessions like this feel so meaningful. It’s not about being perfectly posed – it's about being present. And Rebecca & Jonny were so present with each other, which made the entire experience feel effortless and full of heart.

Some love stories just feel effortless – like two people were simply meant to find each other. That’s exactly how it felt watching Rebecca and Jonny together during their Cathedral Park engagement session in Portland. Their goofiness, their comfort with one another, and the warmth they exude as a couple was undeniable. Honestly, I wasn’t even sure I had to give them any direction at all while photographing them – every moment felt natural, intimate, and completely their own.

Rebecca and Jonny first met on a dating app back in December 2017 – and if you know Rebecca, you’ll understand just how perfect that timing was. Christmas is her favorite season, so their first few dates were full of holiday lights, cozy drinks, and that special kind of magic the season brings. Fast forward nearly eight years, and their relationship has only deepened as they built their careers and learned how to blend their lives in the most seamless way.

One of the strongest bonds between them is their shared love for travel. They’ve always found joy in experiencing new cultures, exploring different foods, and creating memories far from home. Jonny studied abroad in Spain, so when I asked them where they’d spend their last day together, the answer was easy – they’d be back in Spain, sipping wine, trying every delicious bite they could find, and soaking in the sun together. That passion for adventure and connection to culture is such a core part of their story – and it makes their love feel even more rooted and intentional.

Their engagement photos at Cathedral Park were the perfect reflection of who they are – playful, grounded, and full of love. Even though the Portland skies were misty and gray that day (classic PNW!), the session still felt warm and inviting. The way they leaned into each other, laughed in between shots, and moved so naturally – it all told the story of a couple deeply in sync.

It’s these kinds of moments that remind me why I love photographing engagement sessions in Portland – and Cathedral Park is hands-down one of the dreamiest spots to do it.

I seriously can’t wait for their wedding at The Water Oasis this April – if their engagement was any sign, it’s going to be an incredible day!

If you’re dreaming of your own Portland engagement session, let’s make it happen! Contact me here and let’s start planning!