Congratulations, you’re engaged! Now it is time to capture photos for your save the dates and invitations. Also, the memories from this time in your life are so sweet to look back at even after the wedding. The natural scenery offered at national parks and local hikes make the most breathtaking photo moments. If you are already planning an outdoor wedding, a mountain engagement session will complement our aesthetic as a couple. You might choose the same location that your wedding will be! This is a great sneak peek at what your wedding photography will look like. As a photographer, I love getting creative and spending a day of adventure with each client. From the time of day to what outfits to wear, I am sharing everything you need to know for a mountain engagement session.

Couple looking over mountain

Time

Most often, a mountain engagement session will require a short hike resulting in more time needed for photography. Be sure to factor in the travel to your destination and outfit changes in order to capture photos without a major time constraint. Don’t forget the sunset photography! After making it to the top of a mountain, take full advantage of the view. You might need to add in additional time for this photo moment adding in an extra hour for the adventure. Trust me, it is well with it! If you love the sunrise instead, grab some coffee and schedule your engagement session early in the morning. When you are booking your session, think about the season it will fall in and adjust the time as needed. Wedding photographer tip: Coordinate your engagement session with the season you are getting married. If you are planning a winter wedding, try and schedule your engagement session in the late spring or fall for a cohesive look.

Couple kissing at sunset on top of mountain

Outfits & Supplies

Even if there is not a hike or major trail to your mountain photo destination, being outside for hours at a time requires some preparation. Bring along a backpack with energizing snacks, reusable water bottles, and comfortable shoes. If you are making a date out of the day, pack a romantic picnic to enjoy after photos. While heels are certainly beautiful in an image, you will want to wear hiking boots or tennis shoes for long portions of walking. Change right before the photo moment- no one will know! Most engagement sessions include a few outfit changes so bring along more than you think you need. I recommend 3-5 outfits for each couple. Soft pastels and neutral tones are often best to compliment the natural mountain location. Plan your outfits in advance so you know exactly what to wear next for each portion of your session. Layer your outfits in cooler temperatures. Even if it seems warmer outside, the chill at elevated mountain heights can be surprising.

Couple holding hands walking on outdoor trail

Weather

While a bright and sunny day is ideal, this does not always happen. You might choose a backup date for your engagement session to prepare in the case of inclement weather. I work with each couple to come up with a plan in case the original photo date is canceled due to the weather. If travel is still possible, you might choose to embrace the rain. Get creative with the alternative lighting and use clear umbrellas as props. While this may not be what you expected this can be super romantic and fun!

Want more mountain engagement session inspiration? Check out this North Carolina engagement next!