Frankie Grande and Hale Leon’s Desert Engagement Announcement Photoshoot featured in People Magazine

There is something special about the desert, representing both resilience and freedom. And no two words summarize broadway star, activist, and actor, Frankie Grande better than resilient and free. Frankie, and his partner Hale Leon, celebrated their anniversary in Palm Springs. We pulled them away from their celebration for photos in Joshua Tree National Park, a stunning backdrop to commemorate this special occasion.

The couple met two years ago line dancing at Oil Can Harry’s in Los Angeles, California. It was love at first dance! We had to incorporate this special memory in their photos and asked them to show us some moves in the middle of a dirt road—and they did not hesitate! Just as the sun was about to set, we were able to capture some phenomenal and intimate moments of the couple in their element: having fun, laughing, and enjoying one another’s company.

We were honored to have these photos used for their engagement announcement, featured in People Magazine. Check out that feature here!

These sunset engagement photos were captured at the Joshua Tree National Park in Joshua Tree, California
Images from this session were featured in People Magazine. An image was also the cover story for the MediaPlanet insert for USA Today.

Palm Springs wedding photographer Todd Danforth Photography is an LGBTQ+ and POC-owned wedding photography team specializing in capturing joyful and candid moments. As storytellers and craftspeople, we believe in the power of visual narratives. Our mission is to create honest and authentic photographs you can share with your loved ones for generations to come.