I travelled to McMaster University in Hamilton on a cold, rainy Sunday.  It was the Sunday before Super Storm Sandy made her way to the East Coast.  We were all ready feeling her wrath although somewhat mildly.  I woke up to no rain, but the clouds were definitely looming and rain was definitely coming.  It wasn’t a question of “if” it was a question of “when”.  Sure enough as I hit Mississauga, the rain started pelting down on my car.  I was worried.  What kind of session could we have with the rain beating so hard.  I quickly called Michael and Shadi and asked them to grab someone who could hold an umbrella over my gear! 🙂 They graciously complied.

As luck (good fortune) would have it, the rain subsided to a mild drizzle when I finally arrived at the John Hodgins Engineering Building on campus.  Perched in front of this building is an Iron Ring, also known as the Steel Ring.  This ring is worn by many Canadian trained engineers and serves as a symbol to remind them of their obligation and ethics to their chosen profession.   The ring is given to each graduate in a ceremony known as “The Ritual of the Calling of an Engineer”.   Outside of the Engineering Building at McMaster, sits a statue with a metal ring prominently a top the cement slab, serving as a reminder to students what they are striving for.

As much as this Iron Ring symbolizes a degree in engineering, I believe for Michael and Shadi it also symbolizes their love for each other.  As it was in this place, working towards this “Iron Ring” that Michael and Shadi first laid eyes on each other, and it is here where their love story began.  So in paying homage to their roots in love, they decided McMaster University on Campus would be the best place for their engagement shoot.  Starting right in front, where the Iron Ring resides.

Although I have been to McMaster University before to shoot, I was treated with a tour from Shadi’s brother who once attended there as well, as he told me all the “must-have” photo location ops!  The grounds of McMaster are beautiful.  They also do weddings there.  So if you live in Hamilton (even if you don’t) and are thinking about locations, consider Mac as an option.  It truly is gorgeous!

Meet Michael:

I asked him to GQ it out, and here’s what  I got…a valiant effort wouldn’t you say? 🙂

Meet Shadi:  (She didn’t need me to tell her to GQ it out, she just has a natural flare! Sorry Michael!!) LOL

Together they make Michael and Shadi, destined to meet and fall in love.  Destined to be wed this coming February.

Shadi & Michael, I had a blast, through the rain and cold, you two kept smiling and never once complained.  You are the epitome of true love.  Thank you for allowing me to be a part of it!