May 12, 2025 — just outside of Corning, Iowa, the golden hour light was putting on a show, and so were Preston and Cassidy. I had the privilege of capturing their engagement session before I get to capture the big day — and let me tell you, these two are the real deal. There’s something special about engagement shoots. They’re laid-back, genuine, and full of sweet moments that help me get to know the couple before the wedding. And these two? Total naturals. They were so in love, so present — so much so, they missed their dinner date at the Mexican restaurant because the light was that good. (I’d say it was worth it.)
A Little Backstory
Preston Miller and Cassidy Standley have one of those "meant to be" love stories. They grew up in the same church, went to the same high school, and while Preston had his eyes on Cassidy for years... Cassidy needed a little more time. (Let’s just say boys weren’t really her thing back then ). But as they grew up, so did their relationship — and now they’re planning forever. The Proposal Story — Barn Lights & Big Surprises. Cassidy was elbow-deep in cake and cupcake duty for her grandpa’s birthday when Preston pulled off a sweet and sneaky move. With help from her mom (who deserves an Oscar for the performance), Cassidy was told there was a water main break in the barn.Naturally, she rushed to the scene... only to find no water. Just a glowing heart made of Christmas lights in the middle of the stall barn. Right there, in the heart he laid out, Preston asked her to marry him.
Preston & Cassidy in a Nutshell
They’ve been together for three years — since mid-sophomore year — and love spending time outdoors, watching movies, grabbing Mexican food or ice cream, and just doing life together. One of their favorite memories? Renting scooters in Des Moines, racing down wide park sidewalks, and nearly wiping out in the grass (Preston’s near miss = date night giggles for days). Cassidy and Preston wanted their session to feel natural, loving, peaceful, fun, romantic, and warm. With a mix of tree-lined trails, grassy fields, and the ford truck we captured it all — and more. Their wardrobe was effortlessly them: a little dressy, a little western, and totally Cassidy and Preston. It was a perfect mix of clean, fun, and fancy that fit right into the rolling Iowa landscape. What’s Next? These two will be saying I do before we know it — and I couldn’t be more honored to tell their story through my lens. From the first laugh to the last photo of the night, this session was full of joy, connection, and a whole lot of love (plus a detour away from tacos — which is how you know it was worth it). Stay tuned for their wedding.
