Grandma and Papa’s Fall Apple Orchard Date with Donuts and Cider at Jonamac Orchard in Malta, IL

My grandparents agreed to go to Jonamac Apple Orchard in Malta IL where they used to take me as a kid for a fall apple orchard and pumpkin patch photoshoot, complete with apple cider and donuts. I’ve been thinking of asking them to model for me for a few years and this is by far the most meaningful photoshoot I’ve ever done. We had beautiful fall weather for walking through the apple orchard and stopping at the pumpkin patch and the weather left us a little surprise. Of course papa polished off his donut… and then grandma’s before our shoot was over 😂

They have been married for over 50 years and they truly love each other and have worked together through life. Their love is the kind that you dream about having with your best friend as you grow old together. These photos I will treasure more than any golden hour wedding sunset photos or the most beautiful ringshot, because they remind me that my job is not about capturing the pretty moments, but the ones that leave a lasting emotional impression forever. Scroll til the end to see the most magical surprise rainbow 🌈

My favorite image I’ve ever taken is towards the end, so make sure you don’t miss it right before the rainbow!

Papa’s apple cider donut lasted about 5 seconds before it was gone…and then grandma’s disappeared too 😂

I asked grandma to take her coat off and stand facing papa, and he grabbed her hands and started dancing with her 😍

This is by far my favorite picture I’ve ever taken <3