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When you think of a romantic and classy Providence Rhode Island engagement session, this one with Tori and Blake is exactly that. From the elegant architecture of the RISD Museum to the cozy charm of downtown bars, their shoot was full of intention, spontaneity, and connection. As a photographer, these kinds of sessions – where love, trust, and community come together – remind me why I do what I do.

Picture this – you get a DM from someone you used to be super close with, but haven’t talked to in years:

“Hey Sami, I hope everything is going well! Blake and I just got engaged and I would love to talk to you about doing an engagement shoot and eventually our wedding in 2026 if that is something you’re interested in. It would be so special to have you capture our day, let me know what you think!”

My heart dropped – in the best way. I was immediately both honored and terrified. We’re from a tight-knit Rhode Island town. Everyone knows everyone, and there are plenty of talented Rhode Island wedding photographers. But despite the time and the options, they chose me. That meant everything.

I could’ve said no – it’s easy to shy away from situations that feel unfamiliar or emotionally loaded. But growth comes from leaning into the uncomfortable. And after photographing their dreamy, classy Providence engagement session, I knew I’d made the right call by saying yes.

THE SHOOT

Tori sent over a few inspiration photos to help shape the vision for their session. Lots of elegant indoor shots with a classy bar feel, but she also wanted a bit of that city charm. I started scouting locations in Providence, Rhode Island that would give us both vibes. I reached out to a beautiful local bar downtown and got the okay to shoot there before business hours. Perfect! Or so I thought…

A week before the shoot, they let us know they had accidentally double booked the space for a private event. No biggie! We pivot! Instead, we kicked off the session at the stunning RISD Museum, capturing clean, romantic frames against artistic backdrops. From there, we headed back into town making our way to one of my all-time favorite spots: Stingy Alley.

We shot during business hours, but the staff couldn’t have been more accommodating. The energy was warm, the lighting was perfect, and a few kind patrons offered to move so I could get “the shot.” Huge shoutout to the team at Stingy Alley and their sister restaurant, The Square Peg, for going above and beyond. Their hospitality helped bring Tori and Blake’s engagement photos to life.

While everything may not have gone to plan right off the bat, Tori and Blake’s shoot is a perfect example of how flexibility, a little spontaneity, and great people can turn any plan B into something unforgettable.