The Love That Went Viral: Capturing a Timeless Romance on Whidbey Island
In the world of photography, images of young couples in love are abundant—engagements, weddings, and romantic elopements. But where are the love stories that have stood the test of time? Where is the “happily ever after”? This question sparked an idea in my mind at the end of 2022, leading me to search for an elderly couple whose enduring love deserved to be captured.
The Search for the Right Couple
I turned to Facebook, posting in a local group that I was looking for a couple between the ages of 60-70. As submissions poured in, I realized many still looked quite young. That’s when Anna reached out to me with a story that immediately captured my heart.
She told me about her parents, Tatyana and Michael, who had been together for an incredible 62 years. She sent me a photo of them, and I knew instantly—this was the couple I had been seeking. Before confirming, I asked a crucial question: “Are they grumpy?” As a wedding photographer, I often work with elderly guests and needed to ensure they’d be willing to follow my posing directions. Anna reassured me that her parents were full of life and would absolutely enjoy the experience.
Choosing the Perfect Location
Selecting the right location was essential. I wanted a picturesque setting that was also convenient for Tatyana and Michael, considering their age. They lived near Whidbey Island, so I aimed to find a spot close to their home to minimize their travel.
I chose Fort Casey State Park, a place I hadn't visited before. This decision made me a bit nervous, as I was unfamiliar with the area and its suitability for the shoot. However, after researching, I discovered that Fort Casey offered stunning views, historic structures, and beautiful sunsets—perfect for capturing the essence of Tatyana and Michael's enduring love.
A Golden Sunset at Fort Casey
Once the details were set, we met at the location, and Michael and Tatyana showed up 15 minutes early—a true testament to their excitement. They even brought extra outfits!
The session was effortless. They followed every instruction, laughed, and enjoyed the moment. At one point, Michael joked, “We haven’t kissed like this in five years!” Their love, humor, and tenderness made for an unforgettable experience.
From a Photoshoot to a Global Sensation
After the shoot, I shared the photos online, expecting a small wave of appreciation. Then, I decided to create a behind-the-scenes reel, combining the footage and final images. In my mind, a viral post meant maybe 10,000 views—but what happened next was beyond anything I imagined.
Within a week, the reel had exploded, reaching over 6 million views on my page alone—and that was just the beginning. Other major photography pages started reposting my work, leading to millions more views across different Instagram accounts. Some of the most notable pages that featured the shoot included:
• 777luckyfish
• Dirty Boots and Messy Hair
• Arlette Magazine
• Authentic Love Mag
• Insomnia Magazine
One of the biggest surprises was when 9GAG, one of the largest meme and entertainment pages, reposted my reel and tagged me. At the time, 9GAG had over 30 million followers, further amplifying the reach of my work.
And then, something even more unexpected happened—Jay Shetty shared my reel—not once, but twice.
Shortly after, ABC News, Good Morning America, and other major news networks reached out. I asked Tatyana and Michael if they’d be interested in sharing their love story on a larger platform, and they happily agreed. Soon after, they were interviewed by ABC News, giving the world a glimpse into their 62-year-long journey together.
A Trend That Still Lives On
Looking back, I realize this photoshoot wasn’t just a viral moment of 2022—it sparked a movement. After this story gained traction, I noticed more and more photographers embracing the idea of photographing elderly couples. What started as a personal passion project had now become a trend, proving that love doesn’t just belong to the young. Happily ever after does exist, and it’s just as beautiful—if not more—when captured in later years.
But beyond the trend, these photos hold an even deeper significance. One day, when our loved ones are no longer with us, these images will become priceless treasures for their children and grandchildren. The laughter, the gentle touches, the shared glances—capturing those moments ensures that their love story will live on for generations to come.
Even now, in 2025, I still receive messages about this shoot. People tell me how much it inspired them to take photos of their own grandparents or capture meaningful moments with loved ones. The impact of this project continues, and I couldn’t be more grateful.
Final Thoughts
This experience reinforced an important lesson: every love story deserves to be told. While young romance is beautiful, there’s something deeply moving about a love that has lasted decades. I hope this trend continues, and more photographers take the time to document these timeless connections.