Why you should take your engagement photos in the PNW
The amazing thing about being a traveling wedding and elopement photographer is that I get to explore so many beautiful and new locations I might not otherwise get to see with my sweet couples and new friends! From the rocky formations in Joshua Tree to the lofty mountains in the Pacific Northwest (PNW), every state has something to offer. I always tell my couples to pick a location that either has a special significance to them and their relationship or a location that they’ve always wanted to explore for their engagement photos. This way they’re not only getting to know their wedding photographer and documenting this time in their lives, but they’re also creating lasting memories with their love. Of course, this can be a difficult decision with so many beautiful places in the world.
If you were to ask me, the decision would be simple. While the California coast holds a special place in my heart, it’s the PNW that is one of my absolute favorite locations for engagement photos!
3 reasons why the PNW is perfect for engagement photos
While this may be surprising, as I’m currently based out of Central California, the Pacific Northwest and particularly Washington State is one of my favorite locations for engagement sessions—and really any type of photography, including weddings and elopements. From the serene surroundings to the luscious greens, the PNW is one of the most beautiful locations for photos. Here are three reasons why I believe the PNW is perfect for your engagement session:
Variety of locations
You have so many choices! From beaches to rivers, mountains to fields of flowers, waterfalls to rushing rivers, you quite literally have every kind of backdrop you could imagine. And for those who absolutely want outdoor engagement photos, you have an endless selection spots—most of which are relatively secluded and intimate. These locations really emphasize not only the magnitude of this chapter in your lives, but they visually signify the adventure you’re about to go on together.
Beyond the PNW wilderness, there’s also the beautiful cities. Seattle in particular is a stunning city for a more urban styled engagement session. With the skyscrapers, city parks, and modern architecture, it too can make for a beautiful and unique backdrop to your photos.
All the seasons
Unlike the area of California where I live, the PNW has seasons! As a result, you and your love can plan accordingly for a season that may fit they style you’re going for. If you want sunny, golden photos, summer is going to be the time of year for you. If you’re think maybe something a little moodier, winter can be perfect for that—rain or snow can help set the scene. And of course, if you’re wanting pops of natural color in your photos both spring and fall will give you just that. While spring tends to have brighter and more vibrant colors, fall will give you darker hues.
So when it comes time to planning and scheduling your engagement session with your wedding photographer, keep seasons—along with their lighting and color palettes—in mind as these can all dramatically influence how your photos come out!
It’s a vibe
Setting matters when it comes to photos! The type of background you have can significantly influence the style and feelings your photos convey. The PNW is one of the most romantic settings I’ve ever photographed. From the warm cozy layers that you can wear for fall and winter shoots to the sublime mountain views and moody weather, there’s something so inviting and intimate about the PNW. If you’re the type of couple who wants maybe a little darker, intimate, romantic, and absolutely majestic photos, the Pacific Northwest is the place for you! You can snuggle up with your boo, huddle together under an umbrella, and jump in puddles all while sharing in an adventure and documenting this special time in your lives.
Let’s plan your PNW adventure
Are you sold on the PNW for your engagement photos? Let’s go! The photos we’ll create will be filled with memories, adventures, and love—all set in with the beautiful Pacific Northwest in the background. We can choose an intimate hiking trail that leads to a beautiful mountain top view or hangout on a private rooftop overlooking Seattle. Regardless, I’ll be there to help you capture these moments and celebrate this chapter in your lives.
Here are a few beautiful shots captured at Rattlesnake Lake in Washington State.
