A couple sharing a kiss on a wooden dock by a calm lake with mountains in the background.

Madi + Justin

Glacier Park Engagement Photographer

Madi & Justin – A Lake Day, A Love Story, and One Unforgettable Engagement Session

Madi and Justin are the kind of couple you instantly feel comfortable around—fun, down-to-earth, and totally in love. When they reached out to me about photographing their wedding in June 2026, I was immediately excited. After chatting with them, I knew their engagement session was going to be special

We met up at a location that felt just right for them—peaceful, scenic, and full of charm. But the day came with a twist: Justin had injured himself on a boat two days before the shoot and could barely move. Most people would’ve rescheduled, but not these two. They showed up with the best attitudes, and we made it work. Honestly? You’d never know he was hurting from the photos. The way they laughed together, the way Madi looked at him—it was pure magic.

A happy couple outdoors, with the woman hugging the man from behind, smiling, surrounded by greenery.
A couple walking hand in hand on a wooden dock by a lake with mountains in the background during sunset.

I love when sessions turn into little adventures, and this one definitely did. We wandered, we laughed, and we created something beautiful together. I never want my couples to feel like they just hired someone to take their photos—I want them to feel like they’re hanging out with a friend who happens to have a camera and knows how to make them look amazing. That’s always the goal.

Not long after their engagement session, I got to photograph Madi’s family at the same location. It was such a joy to meet everyone and see how close and supportive they are. They were so kind and welcoming, and hearing how much they loved the engagement photos made my day. Their excitement for the wedding next year is contagious, and I seriously can’t wait to be part of it.

A smiling couple standing outdoors under a tree on a sunny day, the man has his hands in his pockets and the woman is holding his arm, both looking at each other affectionately.
A smiling couple sitting in a grassy field during sunset, embracing and looking at each other affectionately.
A couple sharing a kiss in a grassy field during sunset, with trees in the background.
A person holding a collection of smooth, multicolored rocks with an engagement ring featuring a marquise-cut diamond resting on top of one of the rocks.
A man and woman standing in shallow water at a lake with mountains in the background, smiling and enjoying the moment.
A couple standing by a lakeshore, embracing and smiling at each other, with mountain and tree reflections on the calm water.
A couple standing in a lake with mountains in the background, smiling at each other, one person's foot submerged in water, black and white photograph.
A couple standing in a grassy field with mountains and trees in the background. The woman is in a white dress, and the man is in a green shirt and jeans, embracing and smiling at each other during sunset.
A woman wearing a white dress and bracelet, with an engagement ring on her finger, holding hands with a person wearing a watch and a dark shirt.
A couple holding hands and smiling at each other in a forested area with sunlight filtering through the trees.
A woman in a cream-colored dress and a man in a green shirt and blue jeans standing behind a wooden fence in a grassy outdoor setting with trees, during sunset.
A person holding their pregnant belly with both hands, wearing a ring with a large gemstone, and a wristwatch, with soft focus on the background.
Close-up of a couple showing their hands with an engagement ring, hugging each other, black and white photograph.
A blurry photo of a couple kissing by a lake, holding hands, with mountains in the background.
A smiling woman in a sleeveless top and a man holding hands, walking on the beach and laughing.
A couple dancing on a pier by a lake with mountains in the background

If you're planning your own engagement shoot, here are a few things I’ve learned from sessions like Madi & Justin’s that can help make your experience feel effortless and fun:

1. Don’t Stress the Unexpected

Justin showed up with a back injury and still crushed it. Things might not go perfectly—and that’s okay. Sometimes the best photos come from just rolling with it and embracing the moment.

2. Wear What Feels Like You

You don’t need to dress up in something that doesn’t feel natural. Choose outfits that make you feel confident, comfortable, and like yourselves. Bonus points if they move well and photograph beautifully in the wind or golden light.

3. Focus on Each Other, Not the Camera

The best photos happen when you’re just being yourselves. Laugh, talk, move around, and don’t worry about posing perfectly. I’ll guide you when needed, but the real magic is in the connection between you two.

4. Choose a Location That Inspires You

Whether it’s a mountain overlook, a quiet lakeside, or a place that holds meaning for your relationship, the right setting can make your session feel more like an adventure than a photoshoot.

5. Make It a Date

Treat your session like a fun outing. Grab coffee before, plan dinner after, and just enjoy the time together. When you’re relaxed and having fun, it shows in every photo.

Tips for a Fun & Relaxed Engagement Session

A man with glasses and a beard smiling, holding a Nikon camera, wearing a brown and green striped sweater, standing against a plain 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!