Photographing Bryant and Matthew’s couple portraits at Tandy Hills Natural Area, for many reasons, was an amazing experience.  My husband, Eric, and I have been close friends with Bryant for over five years now. We met in college, but did not become friends until the three of us spent a summer in Oxford, England in 2012 for a study abroad. That summer with Bryant was one of the best summers that we have ever had. Not only did we spend the summer in Oxford, we made a selfless, kind, and passionate friend. Between exploring all the pubs in the city, frolicking through fields in the Cotswolds, and spending many late night hours discussing faith and our experiences, it was truly an amazing summer.

What I love most about spending time with Bryant and Matthew is seeing how being true to who you are can change your life. It takes bravery to be who you are in a world that might reject you. This is something we all can relate to. They make me want to be a kinder, truer person. Capturing them in their couple session was an absolute joy.

“Our journeys are often long and difficult. Sometimes we aren’t sure where we’re going; sometimes it may be tempting to give up.
But God calls us forward into abundant life. The journey was worth it. And will be worth it. Because weeping may endure for the night, but joy comes in the morning.”

When Bryant first told me about Matthew, I immediately knew something was different. Bryant had dated other people, but I was never introduced to them. Being invited on a double date with them, I took that as a sign. Matthew could not be more perfect for him. Bryant went to college with my husband and I, but later went and studied in Pennsylvania for a Masters in Divinity. With his goal to eventually be an Anglican Priest, his future partner would need similar views and passions. Matthew attends Brite Divinity School at Texas Christian University, making them a perfect match. Not only do they share similar faith and educational backgrounds, but they enjoy travel and spontaneity.

Upon arriving at Tandy Hills Natural Area for their couple session, we immediately were having a blast. I love their willingness to be vulnerable and raw in front of the camera. I don’t think I stopped laughing for the few hours we were shooting. It was a joyful, full evening. The world needs more love like Bryant and Matthew share.

“Today, I am in love. With God, and with the man God has given me. The lie that I could not love both has been silenced. Now the journey continues, and as I step forward into the future, I do so with confidence and joy that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, and that nothing can separate us from God’s love.
Because love wins. And God is love.”

 

Couple Session at Tandy Hills Natural Area | Matthew and Bryant