Elfreth's Alley Engagement Shoot in Old City, Philadelphia || Amberrose and Rick

Getting to shoot do an engagement shoot in Elfreth’s Alley of Old City, Philadelphia was a bucket list item.

…but getting to do so with the adorable Amberrose and Rick, an actual dream come true! Their golden hour engagement shoot was quintessential in every way, playing off the rich and colorful fabrics of the historic street, Elfreth’s Alley, and we truly had so much fun running, dancing, and twirling up and down the alley.

I’ve grown up visiting Philadelphia since college, and from an early age fell in love with the home of Elfreth’s Alley: Old City district. I would wander up and down the cobblestone streets of the alley, Society Hill, and other picturesque streets of Old City, lost in a daydream of brick bungalows, blooming window boxes, colorful shudders, and a sea of wall-mounted American flags.

Elfreth’s Alley is actually the oldest residential street in the United States, dating back to 1703, and there are 32 houses on the street which were built between 1703 and 1836. Nestled in Old City, this neighborhood is actually known as America's most historic square mile.

Old City is actually part of Philadelphia's official historic district, home to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, and it is the cornerstone of Colonial Philadelphia. When selecting the location for our photoshoot, Elfreth’s Alley was an immediate connection.

It was important to Amberrose and Rick that the environment of their session felt equally as charming and inviting as their own chemistry, and this was it. However, quite the opposite from the antiquity of the alleyway, Amberrose and Rick’s relationship is young, vibrant, and pulsing with energy, laughter, and passion. The balance of the aged Elfreth’s Alley with their youthful chemistry struck the perfect balance.

Closing out the night, we swung over to Wissahickon Valley Park to shoot in the blanket of greenery from Philadelphia in summertime. It was a jumble of flourishing ferns, trees, moss, and bushes, all leaping with emeralds, olives, and sage-toned hues—but it was also a magnet for mosquitoes, so we didn’t last long. 🙃🥹

I can’t wait to create more magic with these two fun-loving souls in the summer. And will be staring at their adorable Elfreth’s Alley GIF until then. Check out my blog post here on the importance of having memorable GIFs for your wedding photography.