There is something special about watching a downtown space glow during golden hour, and that feeling was exactly why this American Tobacco Campus Engagement fit Laura and John so well. The campus sits right in the heart of Durham, surrounded by brick walkways, old factory buildings, running water features and skyline views. It is easy to reach from the city center, yet it feels tucked into its own little world. For couples who want a mix of urban charm and soft light, this spot offers one photo backdrop after another, which is why we love working here.
Laura and John chose this location with real purpose. They have been together for more than eight years, and since John spent his college years at Duke University, the Durham area holds a lot of meaning for them. As we walked through the campus, the warm bricks, steel beams and tall smokestacks created a playful balance of old and new. The two of them fit right into that rhythm. They moved naturally through the space, stopping at steps framed by ivy, posing beside murals and relaxing along the railing that overlooks the courtyard. From close hugs to soft smiles, every photo showed how at ease they were with each other.
Their story made the session feel even sweeter. They started dating between their junior and senior years of high school, and even though college took them to different campuses, they built years of memories in Durham. They explored Duke Gardens, watched shows at DPAC and wandered through Umstead State Park. Coming back here for their engagement felt like returning to the roots of their relationship. Seeing them laugh while leaning against brick walls or dance across open walkways felt like a celebration of everything they have shared.
Our team loved photographing this session. We followed the light around the campus and used every corner to capture the mix of energy and intimacy that this venue gives. From wide rooftop views to quiet shaded spots along the water, the space offered endless texture for storytelling. Sessions like this remind us why we enjoy working throughout Raleigh, Durham and the surrounding areas. Our photographers guide couples through each moment and use locations like this to create images that feel personal and timeless.
We also serve all of North Carolina and love helping couples plan engagement sessions and wedding days in places that matter to them. Our team is known for being warm, prepared and creative. Many couples tell us afterward how comfortable they felt and how much they loved the final photos. If you are planning your own celebration, we would be happy to help you explore locations, talk through ideas and choose a package that fits your plans. You can also look through our blog to see more real sessions and find inspiration for your day.
Original Weddings is a team of Raleigh wedding photographers and videographers. Please click here to learn more about our Raleigh photography and videography services. This session was edited in our Timeless editing style. We offer three different photography editing styles: Timeless, Airy, and Rustic. Please click here to learn more about our photography styles. You pick the style you love for your photos!
American Tobacco Campus Engagement Photos
Raleigh Wedding Photographers
Working at the American Tobacco Campus reminds our Raleigh photography team how inspiring North Carolina can be for couples who want meaningful images. This location blends industrial textures, warm brick corridors and soft pockets of natural light, giving our photographers endless variety to work with. Since we know the campus well, we guide couples toward the best corners at the best times of day, whether that means dreamy rooftop light or quiet shaded areas along the walkways. Our team is passionate about creating photos that feel sincere, relaxed and full of personality, and places like this help us do that with ease.
Across Raleigh, Durham and the surrounding region, we bring the same energy and care to every engagement and wedding. We help couples choose locations, plan timing and shape their session so they feel confident on camera from the very first moment. North Carolina has so many beautiful venues, from historic districts to garden parks, and our photographers love turning each one into a canvas for your story. We capture small details and big emotions with equal attention, and many couples share how comfortable and supported they felt throughout the process. No matter where your celebration takes place, our team is ready to create images that you will love for years.
Raleigh Wedding Videographers
Our Raleigh videographers bring the same thoughtful approach to every engagement and wedding across North Carolina. Using steady handheld work, rich audio and drone coverage when the location allows, our team captures every moment with care. From intimate vows to lively receptions, we film with a smooth and natural style that lets each couple’s story shine. We document small gestures and big celebrations so nothing is missed. Whether your event is at the American Tobacco Campus or another venue in the state, our videographers are dedicated to preserving every chapter of your day with clarity and heart.
