Queer Love in the Foggy Rain and History Museum

Written and Photography by Eliana Melmed Photography

It was total serendipity that we met at all. Five years ago, the three of us moved to Salt Lake City from different places for the same reasons: new jobs, new city, new lives. We found each other in a Facebook group for roommates, and while we didn't end up living together, we realized we were all starting from scratch without a single friend in town. So, we decided to meet up. That decision changed everything, and Leah (they/them) and Anna (she/her) quickly became my Utah family.

I’ve had a front-row seat to their love story, watching them fall for each other, build a life, and get married. They have been my constants through it all, staying some of my closest friends even as we’ve all moved across different states. They even stood by my side at my own wedding last year.

They were also there at the very beginning of my photography journey. They were one of the first couples I ever photographed back when they were just starting to date, and capturing them has always felt effortless. There is a palpable energy between them and a love that just feels tangible.

For this session, we found ourselves back in the same city on a dreary, rainy Chicago afternoon. Instead of letting the weather win, we decided to make an adventure out of it. We ducked into the Field Museum to wander the halls and hang out with the dinosaurs. Looking back at these images, I feel so incredibly grateful to have them as friends. From random internet strangers to chosen family, I really am the lucky one to have them in my corner.