Knoxville Botanical Engagement || Hadyn & Luke Engagement

Cloudy Engagement Photos with a Bright Finish

There’s something so magical about a cloudy engagement session at Knoxville Botanical Garden. The soft, diffused light adds a romantic, timeless glow to every image—and Hadyn & Luke’s engagement session was the perfect example of this. We explored the lush garden paths under a dreamy gray sky, and it felt like we had the whole place to ourselves; kind of… because it was also SO crowded with other photographers!

I first met Hadyn and Luke at Luke’s sister’s wedding, and I instantly adored the Simpson family. Luke is one of four siblings—three of them brothers—and I still vividly remember the rehearsal dinner when each of the boys gave a toast to their sister. Their speeches were the perfect blend of hilarious, heartfelt, respectful, and a little bit mischievous. That same dynamic, playful energy was front and center during Hadyn & Luke’s engagement session.

Before every engagement shoot, I like to take a few minutes to chat with the couple. It’s my way of setting the tone and helping them feel comfortable in front of the camera. I always ask if there’s anything they’re self-conscious about—because my job is to help them feel confident, seen, and celebrated in every frame. Hadyn and Luke were amazing at communicating exactly what they liked and what they wanted from their session. Luke told me right away, “I’ll do whatever you need me to if it helps make the photos good for Hadyn.” That kind of devotion? Pure gold. And he really did follow through—from sweet moments to silly prompts, he leaned all the way in.

These two are so precious together. Their connection is effortless, fun, and full of joy. I cannot wait to celebrate them at The Quarry this September. If their engagement session is any indication, their wedding day is going to be nothing short of unforgettable.

I’m a Knoxville Wedding Photographer that loves to travel. I shoot anywhere! Click here to contact me with any questions you have about pricing or booking! If you liked what you saw above, go ahead and follow me on Facebook or Instagram to see my daily updates of the latest sessions!

See more from Amanda May Photos:

Engagement Session at Norris Dam State Park

Wedding at Sacred Heart & Castleton Farms

UT Gardens 6 Month Session