A man proposing marriage to a woman on a dock by a lake with mountains in the background

Glacier Park Engagement Photographer
Emmy + Ricardo

One of my favorite things about being a photographer in Montana is getting to meet couples from all over the country—and Ricardo and Emmy’s story is one I won’t forget anytime soon.

They flew in from Houston, Texas for what Emmy thought was just a couples photo session in Glacier National Park. But Ricardo had something much bigger planned. He reached out to me ahead of time to let me in on the secret: he was going to propose to Emmy!

A close-up of a couple holding hands, a woman with a ring on her finger, wearing bracelets and a black dress, and a man with a watch and a tattoo on his arm, standing outdoors.
A couple standing hand in hand outdoors in a grassy area with tall trees in the background, during sunset.
A happy couple in black outfits standing outdoors, smiling at each other with a forest and sunlight in the background.

From the start, Ricardo made it clear how important this moment was to him. He told me Emmy loved photos that felt natural and romantic, with beautiful scenery in the background. He wanted the proposal to feel personal and meaningful, and Glacier’s stunning views were the perfect setting.

Since they weren’t familiar with the park, I helped them plan the session and picked out a few of my favorite spots—places that are a little off the beaten path but still easy to get to. We timed it so we’d have great lighting and fewer crowds, which made the whole experience feel even more special.

A woman in a black dress and a man in black shirt and white pants are in a grassy field surrounded by trees. The woman is standing, and the man is crouching and smiling at her.
A smiling couple sitting close together in a grassy outdoor setting with trees in the background.
A couple laughing and hugging outdoors in a field with trees and mountains in the background, black and white photograph.

We met up a few days after the proposal, and from the start, it was clear how excited and happy they were. They were so easy to work with—laughing, exploring, and just enjoying the moment together. My goal was to capture not just the beauty of the park, but also their personalities and the connection they share.

We moved through a few different locations, each one offering something a little different. Whether it was a quiet moment by the water or a wide shot with the mountains behind them, every photo felt like a piece of their story.

A smiling couple holding hands and splashing water as they walk into a lake, with mountains in the background.
A couple standing in a lake with mountains in the background; the man is lifting the woman, and they are embracing each other.

This shoot was a great reminder of why I love what I do. It’s not just about taking pretty pictures—it’s about helping people tell their stories and creating memories they’ll look back on for years.

Ricardo and Emmy, thank you for trusting me with such a big moment in your lives. I’m so glad I got to be part of it, and I hope Montana will always hold a special place in your hearts.

Two people holding hands outdoors by a body of water, with one person wearing a light-colored shirt and jeans, and the other in a similar outfit, both embracing near sunset.
A man and a woman walking along a rocky shore by a lake, surrounded by mountains and trees, during sunset.
A couple holding hands and walking through a grassy field with tall trees in the background, sunlight shining through the trees.
A couple sitting in a grassy field at sunset, gazing lovingly at each other.

Tips for Planning a Destination Engagement Shoot

If you’re thinking about planning a destination engagement session like Ricardo and Emmy’s, here are a few tips to help make it smooth and memorable:

1. Choose a location that means something to you.

Whether it’s a place you’ve always wanted to visit or somewhere that reflects your style, picking a meaningful spot makes the photos even more special.

2. Work with a local photographer.

A local photographer can help you find the best spots, avoid crowds, and plan around lighting and weather. Plus, they’ll know all the hidden gems!

3. Plan for the weather.

Mountain weather can change quickly, so bring layers and be ready for anything. A little flexibility goes a long way.

4. Make a day of it.

Don’t rush! Give yourselves time to enjoy the experience. Grab coffee before, explore after, and treat it like a mini adventure.

5. Communicate your vision.

Let your photographer know what kind of vibe you’re going for—whether it’s playful, romantic, or a mix of both. The more they know, the better they can capture your story.

A couple holding hands and about to kiss on a rocky lakeshore with a mountain landscape in the background.
A couple standing close together outdoors during sunset, surrounded by trees and flowers.
A man with glasses, beard, and dark hair holding a Nikon camera, smiling, with arms crossed, against a plain white background.

I love helping couples create unforgettable experiences here in Montana and capturing the moments that matter most. If you're ready to start planning your own adventure session or just want to chat about ideas, click the link below—I’d love to hear from you!