Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing two beautiful humans in love during their Adriatica Village engagement photos in McKinney, Texas. This European-inspired location had been on my photography bucket list for years, and finally shooting here was everything I hoped for and more.
Golden Hour Adriatica Village Engagement Photos
We met on a Sunday afternoon in mid-November around 3 p.m. This is the perfect time for soft, flattering light that mimics early golden hour. We started at the top of the hill, just across from Bella Donna Chapel – one of the most iconic spots in Adriatica Village.
From the beginning, these two eased into the session. They walked hand in hand, leaned into each other, and shared quiet moments that quickly turned into laughter.
Before long, their playful energy carried them across the grass. They frolicked and laughed, moving naturally through every frame. Some sessions just feel different, the kind where you already know the gallery will glow. This was absolutely one of those sessions.
Golden Hour Light and Playful Moments
We met on a Sunday afternoon in mid-November around 3pm — the perfect time of year when the sun isn’t too high in the sky and the light is soft, giving the illusion of the beginnings of golden hour. Starting at the top of the hill just across from Bella Donna Chapel, we eased into the session with simple motions: walking hand in hand, leaning into each other, and simply existing together. Before long, their playful energy carried them across the grass, frolicking and laughing through every moment.
There are sessions that just feel different in the moment – the kind where you already know, as you’re shooting, that the gallery is going to glow. This was absolutely one of those sessions.
Exploring Nature and Wooded Corners
From the hill, we ventured into the wooded areas. Soft light filtered through the trees, creating gorgeous, tender moments. She leaned back into his arms. He pressed gentle kisses to her forehead. It was a whole thing, and it was effortless, real, and totally unscripted.
After soaking in the quiet beauty of the woods, we returned to the main areas of Adriatica Village. Mediterranean-style walkways and cobblestone walls offered a stunning backdrop for more photos.
The Charm of Adriatica Village
Adriatica Village is a dream for McKinney engagement photos. Romantic walkways along the canal, Tuscan-inspired details, rolling grassy hills, and a sparkling lake create endless photo opportunities. Stone archways, flower-covered columns, and warm European-style walls add texture and depth to every shot.
We captured playful sidewalk dances, quick kisses tucked into quiet corners, and cuddled-up lantern-lit moments as the evening light shifted. Even the ring shots sparkled perfectly in the soft, glowing light.
Why Adriatica Village is a Dream for Engagement Photos
This location combines charm, variety, and natural beauty. Couples get a mix of architecture, waterfront views, and open fields—all in one place. From intimate wooded corners to cobblestone pathways and expansive lakefront views, every spot feels unique.
Delivering this gallery felt like handing back a piece of their story. Warm, joyful, and full of genuine connection, these images captured them perfectly. If their engagement session was any indication, their wedding day will be just as breathtaking.
Check out this gorgeous 1 year Anniversary Session in Corpus Christi: Click here
Check out Adriatica Village: Click here
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