I am obsessing over Arya and Abhinav’s Fonda Fora engagement photos in Calgary. It was one of those shoots where everything came together perfectly – great outfits, a fun location, cocktails, quirky moments and a couple who were completely themselves in front of the camera (after a little direction).
They had fallen in love with my Vogue-inspired engagement session and wanted something with that same elevated, fashion-forward feel for their own engagement photos. We took that inspiration and made it completely their own, incorporating their personalities, their style and a few unexpected moments along the way.
From Friendship to Engagement
Their story began back in 2022 at an engineering conference where they were both volunteering while she was pursuing her Master’s Degree. He initially asked her out – and she said no!
Thankfully, they became friends instead. As they spent more time together, their friendship grew into something more, and a few months later they started dating.
Fast forward to a trip to France, where he proposed during their final days in Marseille. While standing at a viewpoint enjoying the sights, he asked her to marry him in a quiet, sweet moment just for the two of them.
A Fonda Fora Engagement Photos
For their engagement photos, they wanted something stylish and a little unexpected. Arya had shared inspiration from the Louvre in Paris, beautiful French architecture and San Francisco City Hall – so we knew we wanted to incorporate elegant arches and architectural details into their session.
Since they were coming from out of town for their engagement photos, I put together several outdoor location options that would complement the vision she had in mind. We found the perfect arches to bring that European-inspired feel to Calgary, then paired them with the modern restaurant and bar atmosphere at Fonda Fora for a completely different look.
And because I love being a little extra, we added in some quirky and unexpected photographs too. Not every image needs to be perfectly posed – sometimes the photographs that make you laugh are the ones you’ll love the most.
Cocktails & Lots of Laughing
One of their favourite parts of the session was photographing at the bar with drinks in hand. In their own words:
“It was fun getting shots of us with yummy drinks in our hands (which we then proceeded to chug haha).”
Honestly, I love when couples can relax, laugh and simply enjoy being together. Their final gallery was a mix of modern portraits, playful moments and genuine connection, all while keeping the elevated feel they envisioned.
Kind Words From the Couple about their Fonda Fora Engagement Photos
“I can confidently say that this was the most fun I’ve ever had getting photos done! Working with Sarah was an absolute pleasure, and from the moment we met up for our session, my fiancé and I felt super comfortable and at ease knowing we were in good hands. Sarah talked us through the entire process of what to expect and had a great sense of humour, which made us feel calm and allowed us to focus on having a good time.”
They also loved having a combination of planned locations and spontaneous moments throughout the session, and felt that the final photographs perfectly captured their relationship.
That is always the goal. Beautiful photographs are important, but the best engagement photos should still feel like you.
Planning Your Own Calgary Engagement Session?
If you’re looking for a Calgary engagement photographer and love the idea of something stylish, personal and a little unexpected, I’d love to create something with you.
Whether you’re drawn to Fonda Fora or another Calgary lounge or bar location, your session should be a reflection of your relationship – with a little extra personality thrown in. Reach out here to start planning your own photo shoot!
