Colorado Springs Photographer Blog
Surprise Proposal + Couples Session at Garden of the Gods
Kyle had been planning for months to propose to Raquel during their Colorado Springs vacation. After six years together, he knew Garden of the Gods, with its timeless red rocks and sweeping mountain views, was where he wanted to ask her to marry him.
Even with rain showers and last-minute pivots, the moment unfolded perfectly. On a quiet overlook, Kyle dropped to one knee and Raquel’s joy lit up the evening. Their session flowed seamlessly from surprise proposal to tender, joy-filled portraits, proof that Garden of the Gods is one of the most romantic places to propose in Colorado.
Kyle knew for months that this trip to Colorado Springs would hold more than sightseeing. After six years with Raquel, he carried not just a ring, but the weight of anticipation, nerves, and love he’d been holding close for so long. He wanted their moment to be private, timeless, and framed by the red rock spires of Garden of the Gods, a place that feels both wild and eternal.
Planning the Surprise
Planning a surprise proposal is an art. Kyle booked a call with me from his truck so Raquel wouldn’t overhear, determined to keep every detail hidden. He didn’t want her to know a photographer was waiting, or even that a proposal was coming. Together, we crafted a plan: detailed maps, timing, and backup options in case Colorado’s unpredictable weather threw us a curve.
Rain, Umbrellas, and Perfect Timing
And of course, it rained. Colorado has been soaked this year, but rain only makes love stories shine brighter. I arrived 45 minutes early, gear covered and a clear umbrella in hand, blending in as though I was photographing the landscape.
When Kyle arrived, his nerves met the storm, and together we adjusted the plan on the fly. Instead of the original spot we had mapped, he chose a quiet overlook, one of my favorite hidden corners of the park.
The Proposal Moment
Raquel never suspected. As they stepped out onto the overlook, Kyle dropped to one knee with the mountains stretching wide behind them. Her joy was instant, her whole face lighting up with tears and laughter, love spilling into the space around them.
When she said yes, relief washed over him, months of planning and secrecy falling away in one exhale. It was raw, tender, and unforgettable.
From Proposal to Couples Session
With the question asked and answered, the evening shifted into celebration. Raquel touched up her makeup and slipped easily into the glow of the moment. Their session afterward was filled with laughter, tight embraces, and stolen glances that said everything words couldn’t.
I love capturing that transition, from the anticipation of a hidden question to the ease of knowing the answer. For Kyle and Raquel, every frame carried joy.
Why I Love This Hidden Spot at Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods is filled with iconic formations, but my favorite places are the ones tucked away, quiet corners where couples can share their moment without an audience. This is one of those spots. I use it for proposals, elopements, and family sessions because it’s easy to access yet feels private and secluded. The kind of place where a love story can truly unfold.
Planning Your Own Garden of the Gods Proposal
Whether you’re dreaming of a surprise like Kyle’s or a couples session that turns into a proposal, Garden of the Gods is one of the best places to propose in Colorado Springs. With its dramatic red rocks, sweeping mountain views, and year-round accessibility, it’s as timeless as the love stories it holds.
Want to see more ideas? Check out my full guide to the Best Spots to Propose in Garden of the Gods.
A Complete Guide to Proposing at Garden of the Gods
Kyle and Raquel’s surprise proposal shows just how breathtaking and emotional this park can be. But it’s only one glimpse of what’s possible here. To help you dream and plan your own, I’ve written a full guide to the Best Spots to Propose in Garden of the Gods. Whether you’re looking for a hidden, private overlook or one of the park’s most iconic red rock formations, the guide covers timing, logistics, and everything you need to create your own unforgettable yes.
Garden of the Gods is one of the most romantic places in Colorado to propose, and having a local proposal photographer means you can relax knowing the details, the light, and the moment itself are all taken care of.
If you’re ready to plan your proposal at Garden of the Gods, I’d love to guide you through it and capture the joy when your partner says yes.
Romantic Couples Session & Proposal at Garden of the Gods
Cade and Nicky’s couples session at Garden of the Gods held a beautiful surprise, a proposal on a quiet overlook just as the red rocks lit up at golden hour. What began as laughter in the rain turned into tears of joy and a heartfelt yes.
This post shares their full story: how Cade planned the perfect moment, why Garden of the Gods is one of the most romantic places to propose in Colorado Springs, and how a couples session can make a proposal even more meaningful.
If you’ve been wondering how to propose at Garden of the Gods or searching for the right proposal photographer in Colorado Springs, Cade and Nicky’s story shows you exactly how magical it can be. Their golden hour couples session turned into a surprise proposal on a quiet overlook, with the red rocks glowing and Pikes Peak stretching across the horizon. Garden of the Gods is one of the most breathtaking places in Colorado to propose, a mix of adventure, romance, and unforgettable views, and this evening captured it all.
Cade & Nicky’s Love Story in the Garden
Cade is a cowboy in Texas, the real deal. Pearl snap shirt, cowboy boots, and hat, with a heart as steady as his work. Nicky is a hairstylist and artist with effortless beauty and sweet tattoos that tell pieces of her story. Together, their love feels grounded and wild all at once.
They planned a couples session at Garden of the Gods, but Cade had more in mind, something unforgettable.
Golden Hour in a Hidden Gem
We started in one of my favorite spots in the park, easy to get to, quiet, and tucked away from the crowds. The timing couldn’t have been better. The day had started with rain, and during the session, it sprinkled just enough for Cade and Nicky to cozy under a blanket I brought. Those in-between moments, laughter in the rain, faces pressed close, hands wrapped tight, became some of my favorite images.
As the sun broke through the clouds, the entire space lit up in gold. Garden of the Gods does this magic trick sometimes: the rocks glow, the sky turns honey-pink, and everything feels suspended in time.
The Proposal Moment
Cade took his time, letting the session flow naturally. We walked, we laughed, we captured their love as the light deepened. On the way to our final spot, I gave him a gentle nudge, a reminder that the time was right. He waited just a little longer, holding the moment close, until we reached a rocky cliff overlooking the range. There, with the mountains stretched out behind them and the sky glowing gold, Cade pulled out the ring.
Nicky’s reaction was pure joy. Her hands flew to her face, her smile widened into tears, and in that instant, Garden of the Gods witnessed another love story etched into its stone. She said yes, and the whole park seemed to echo it back.
Celebrating with Photos
After the proposal, we captured the electric joy in the air, Nicky showing off her ring against the backdrop of red rocks, her tattoos catching the light, Cade beaming beside her. I tucked her ring into the surrounding nature for a few detail shots, a tradition my clients love. Those images feel like talismans, tying love to the land.
Why a Couples Session Proposal is Worth Considering
I’ve photographed both full surprise proposals and sessions like Cade and Nicky’s, a couples shoot that transforms into a proposal. Each has its own magic.
With a surprise proposal, you get the raw shock and unfiltered emotion.
With a session-turned-proposal, you also ensure you’re both dressed in a way that feels true to your style. You already have beautiful photos leading up to the big moment, and the surprise still lands just as powerfully.
For Cade and Nicky, it was the perfect balance: genuine surprise paired with the chance to look and feel their best.
Planning Your Garden of the Gods Proposal
Garden of the Gods is one of the best places to propose in Colorado Springs, and having a local photographer who knows the light, the crowds, and the hidden gems can make all the difference. From scouting quiet spots to helping with timing, I love guiding couples through this once-in-a-lifetime moment.
More Ideas for Your Garden of the Gods Proposal
If you’re dreaming about proposing in Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods offers so many ways to make it your own. Cade and Nicky’s story is just one example of how magical it can be. If you’d like to explore even more, I’ve created a full guide to the Best Spots to Propose in Garden of the Gods. From iconic landmarks to hidden overlooks, it’s filled with timing tips, insider advice, and inspiration for planning a proposal that feels as true and unforgettable as your love.
Garden of the Gods is one of the most beautiful places to propose in Colorado Springs, whether you’re planning a surprise or weaving it into a couples session like Cade and Nicky did. Having a local proposal photographer by your side means you can relax into the moment, knowing the light, the location, and every reaction will be captured in a way that feels true to your love.
If you’re dreaming of your own proposal at Garden of the Gods, I’d love to help you plan and photograph it.
Colorado Engagement Photographer at Lake George
Two months before their wedding, Aili and Austin celebrated their love with an engagement session at Lake George, a spot that offered both intimacy and wide-open Colorado mountain views. The light fell golden across pale stone, wildflowers filled the meadows, and their laughter carried through it all.
This post shares their story, why engagement sessions matter, and why Lake George is one of the best Colorado engagement photo locations. From laughter to legacy, these photos capture a chapter that makes the wedding day even more meaningful.
If you’re searching for a Colorado engagement photographer, you’re probably also wondering where to take your photos. Colorado is full of jaw-dropping landscapes, but when it comes to mountain engagement photos, Lake George is one of my favorite places. With its soft-colored rocks, wide meadows, and wildflowers that surprise you in bloom, it’s a location that holds both intimacy and grandeur in the same breath.
That’s what made it perfect for Aili and Austin’s engagement session.
Aili & Austin’s Engagement Session at Lake George
We had originally planned this session earlier in the season, but Colorado weather asked us to pivot. Between travel schedules and storms, we finally landed on a date about two months before their wedding day. And honestly? The timing couldn’t have been better.
Aili’s warmth came through instantly, sweet, giggly, light spilling out of her laughter. Austin matched her with a grounded steadiness, intuitive and gentle, the kind of presence that lets love feel easy. Together, they were effortless.
As we explored Lake George, the landscape gave us everything we could have asked for, golden light across pale stone, bursts of flowers tucked in the meadows, and that wide-open Colorado sky. These two seemed to melt into the place, their love echoing what the land already held: steady, vibrant, true.
Why Engagement Photos Matter Before the Wedding
Every wedding package I offer includes a full engagement session (an $800 value), and I’ll never stop believing in its importance.
These sessions aren’t just about adding more photos to your gallery, they’re about building a foundation.
You get to relax in front of the camera.
You learn how I work, so nothing feels new or overwhelming on the wedding day.
I get to know your rhythm together, when you lean in, when you laugh, when you pause.
We build trust so that, when I show up on your wedding day, you already know I’ll catch the real stuff.
By the time Aili and Austin’s wedding arrives, they’ll have this gallery in hand, a reminder of how their love feels before all the formalities, and a warm-up that will make their wedding photos even more natural.
From Engagement to Wedding Day
In just a couple of weeks, I’ll be photographing Aili and Austin’s wedding at Pinecrest Weddings & Event Center in Palmer Lake, the same venue where I captured another beautiful wedding last year (you can see that blog post here). In fact, it was that blog that first brought them to me.
That’s the magic of telling these stories. They don’t just live in my archives, they live in the way one couple’s love leads another to find the right photographer for theirs.
Colorado Engagement Photo Locations
If you’re planning engagement photos in Colorado, here’s why Lake George is one of my favorite spots:
Scenery that shifts with the light, soft rocks, golden meadows, alpine tones.
Seasonal beauty, bursts of wildflowers in summer, warm tones in fall.
Accessible, stunning views without strenuous hikes.
Space to breathe, a setting where couples can simply be together.
It’s the kind of location that doesn’t compete with your story, it lifts it up.
Aili and Austin’s engagement session was more than just a box to check before their wedding. It was a chance to pause, to celebrate this fleeting season before the vows, and to let their love unfold against the backdrop of the mountains.
If you’re searching for the best Colorado engagement photographer, know this: engagement photos aren’t just another step in the process. They’re part of your legacy — the chapter before the big day, the reminder of how it all felt before you said “I do.”
Cottonwood Pass Couples Session in Buena Vista, Colorado
High on the Continental Divide, Cottonwood Pass is one of Colorado’s most breathtaking places to take photos, and the best part is, you don’t need a permit to capture its beauty. With sweeping views of the Sawatch Range, it’s a place where awe and intimacy live side by side.
For Dan and Emma, this session was about more than photos. It was about chasing the light together, standing steady in the wind, and soaking in a landscape they’ve dreamed of calling home. In this post, I share their story, why Cottonwood Pass makes for an unforgettable couples session, and tips for planning your own Buena Vista photography experience.
Cottonwood Pass Couples Session with Dan & Emma
If you’ve ever wondered, can you take photos on top of Cottonwood Pass? The answer is yes, and it’s every bit as breathtaking as you’d imagine. Sitting high in the Sawatch Range on the Continental Divide, Cottonwood Pass offers sweeping views in every direction. Drive to the summit in summer or fall, step out of your car, and you’re surrounded by ridgelines that stretch into forever. And the best part? You don’t need a permit to photograph here.
This is where I met Dan and Emma, and it became one of my favorite sessions of the entire year.
Soaking Up Colorado
Dan was the one who booked the session, something I’ve seen more this year than ever before, men reaching out to create something meaningful with their partners. He and Emma are runners, hikers, and proud parents of quirky cats. They’d just moved to Colorado, knowing their time here might be temporary, but determined to soak up every bit of beauty it had to offer.
For them, photos weren’t about standing still and smiling. They wanted to feel the genuine connection between them, and to have the mountains wrap them in.
From Loveland Pass to Cottonwood Pass
Originally, we planned for Loveland Pass. But Colorado had other ideas. Seasonal closures and a rockslide meant we needed a new plan. Cottonwood Pass quickly rose to the top of the list, and once we arrived, it felt like fate.
I drove up early to scout, tracing the curves of the road from Buena Vista to the summit. I stopped at overlooks, noticing how the light fell, imagining where Dan and Emma might stand, where the wind might catch Emma’s hair, where the sun might skim the peaks. By the time I reached the top, I had a map in my mind of how we’d chase the light together.
On the way down, I crossed paths with two thru-hikers, fresh off the The Collegiate Loop. They needed a ride into town, so I gave them one. A small reminder of what I love about these mountains: everyone is on a journey, and sometimes those paths intersect for just a moment.
Chasing Light Up the Pass
When Dan and Emma arrived, they followed me back up the mountain. We stopped along the way, unhurried, letting the evening guide us. Meadows opened wide, tree lines gave way to ridgelines, and the light kept shifting, softer, deeper, golden.
By the time we reached the summit, we were standing on the Continental Divide, with views spilling to the east and the west. The air was thin, the sky stretched wide, and it felt as if time had slowed just for them.
Becoming Part of the Landscape
What I loved most was how naturally Dan and Emma fit into the space. They didn’t just pose against the mountains, they moved with them. Runners at heart, hikers in their souls, they carried the rhythm of the trail into the session. Their laughter echoed across the pass, their quiet moments settled into the stillness, and the vastness of the landscape only made their closeness more striking.
It’s sessions like this that remind me: these humans aren’t just in the frame, they are the art.
Why Cottonwood Pass is Worth It
If you’re dreaming of a location that feels both epic and accessible, Cottonwood Pass is one to keep close.
Drive-up access, no long hike required.
360° views, panoramas of the Sawatch Range in every direction.
Seasonal beauty, open mid-July through mid-October.
No photography permit required (see official info).
Diverse scenery, alpine lakes, meadows, rocky overlooks, and the open sky of the Divide.
It’s one of those rare places where awe and intimacy exist side by side.
Dan and Emma’s session was more than just an evening with my camera. It was a reminder of how much beauty there is to hold when we’re willing to pivot, to chase the light, to let the land guide us.
Cottonwood Pass gave them, and me, a chance to breathe deeply, to stand still in the vastness, and to see connection in its truest form.
If you’re dreaming of a Cottonwood Pass couples session, know that it’s waiting. The mountains will welcome you, the light will shift just for you, and your story will find its place here.
Fall 2025 Small Sessions in Colorado Springs (Mini + Micro Sessions)
Fall 2025 Small Sessions in Colorado Springs are here! These short and simple 15-minute sessions are perfect for families with little ones or parents who want updated photos without the full session investment. Set against peak autumn colors and mountain views, these sessions capture the warmth, love, and laughter that make your family yours.
With just 14 spots available across Cheyenne Mountain State Park, Garden of the Gods, and Ute Valley Park, these small (mini or micro) sessions are designed to be stress-free and full of heart. Each includes 5 hand-edited images, styling support, and the option to upgrade to a full gallery.
Fall in Colorado is fleeting but unforgettable, the kind of beauty you don’t want to miss. The mountains turn gold, the air grows crisp, and the light softens into that glow we only get this time of year. It’s the season kids run through crunchy leaves, parents hold on a little tighter, and family life feels both messy and magical.
That’s exactly why I offer Fall Small Sessions (sometimes called mini or micro sessions). These short, simple sessions are perfect for families with little ones who can’t sit still for long, or for parents who want updated photos without the investment of a full session. In just 15 minutes, we’ll capture the love, connection, and laughter that makes your family yours, with the mountain views and fall colors doing the rest.
2025 Fall Small Session Dates & Locations
This year’s sessions are timed for peak fall color in Colorado Springs and curated for either brilliant autumn leaves or sweeping mountain views:
Sunday, September 28, Cheyenne Mountain State Park
4:30 – 4:45 PM
4:50 – 5:05 PM
5:10 – 5:25 PM
5:30 – 5:45 PM
5:50 – 6:05 PM
6:10 – 6:25 PM
Monday, October 6, Garden of the Gods
5:00 – 5:15 PM
5:20 – 5:35 PM
5:40 – 5:55 PM
6:00 – 6:15 PM
Wednesday, October 8, Ute Valley Park
5:00 – 5:15 PM
5:20 – 5:35 PM
5:40 – 5:55 PM
6:00 – 6:15 PM
That’s 14 total spots across three evenings, each one offering the best of fall in Colorado Springs.
What’s Included in a Small Session?
15 Minute Session in Colorado Springs
Full Digital Viewing Gallery to Select Images
5 Hand-Edited Heirloom Digital Images to Keep
Option to Upgrade to the Full Gallery or Purchase A La Carte
Personalized Wardrobe Styling Guidance
Session Prep Guide with Outfit Tips
Online Gallery with Professional Print Options
Full Reprinting Rights
$300
How Do I Book a Mini Session This Fall?
Booking is simple:
Select your preferred date and time using the booking calendar (linked below).
Fill out the short form with your information.
Pay your session fee in full and sign your contract to secure your spot.
Watch your inbox for a confirmation email and access to your client portal.
If you don’t see your confirmation right away, check your spam folder. Still no luck? Reach out directly, I’ll make sure you’re taken care of.
Common Questions About Fall Mini Sessions
Who has mini sessions in Colorado Springs this fall?
Wild Prairie Photography is offering curated small sessions on September 28, October 6, and October 8, 2025, timed for peak fall color.
How much are fall small sessions this year?
They have been priced the same since 2020 and I like being able to keep it that way. Each session is $300 and includes 5 hand-edited images, with the option to upgrade to your full gallery.
What’s the difference between a mini, micro, or small session?
They’re just different names for the same thing: a shorter photo session at a set location with a smaller collection of images included.
Where are the best places in Colorado Springs for fall family photos?
This year’s locations, Cheyenne Mountain State Park, Garden of the Gods, and Ute Valley Park, were chosen for their mix of stunning mountain views and vibrant fall leaves.
Are mini sessions good for kids?
Yes! Small sessions are especially great for families with toddlers or young children since they’re short and playful, keeping kids engaged without wearing them out.
What if we want more photos than the 5 included?
You’ll receive an online gallery with the option to purchase additional images or upgrade to the full gallery if you love them all (most families do).
What happens if it rains?
I’ll make the call on the day of your session and provide alternate dates if the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Can we bring grandparents or extended family?
Small sessions are intended for immediate family only. If you’d like to include extended family, I recommend booking a full session so we have enough time to capture everyone together.
What should we wear for fall photos?
You’ll receive a styling guide with tips on what photographs best in the fall, plus access to personalized wardrobe support to help you plan outfits that look and feel great.
How do I make sure I don’t miss out?
There are only 14 spots available this season. Once they’re booked, that’s it, so grab your time slot early to make sure your family is covered for 2025.
How long does it take to get our photos back?
Your gallery will be ready within 6 weeks of your session. You’ll get a link to view your images online, download your included photos, and decide if you’d like to upgrade to the full gallery.
Can we use these photos for holiday cards or gifts?
Absolutely! Fall small sessions are a perfect way to get updated images before the holidays. You’ll also have access to my professional print shop so you can easily order high-quality prints, cards, and gifts directly from your gallery.
Ready to Book Your Fall 2025 Small Session?
These sessions always book quickly and once they’re gone, they’re gone. With only 14 spots available across three evenings, now is the time to grab your space and make the most of Colorado’s fall magic.
Important Notes About Fall Small Sessions
Session fees for small sessions are non-refundable, but may be transferred to another date if needed.
In case of inclement weather, I’ll make the call the day of your session and provide alternate dates if we cannot meet due to conditions.
Small sessions are designed for immediate family only. If you’d like to include grandparents or extended family, a full session is recommended.
Sessions must take place at the designated locations listed above. For custom locations, or extended time, please consider booking a full session.
Rainy Crystal Creek Reservoir Elopement on Pikes Peak
Zoie and Alex traveled from Missouri to elope at Crystal Creek Reservoir on Pikes Peak. The day brought rain, hail, and unexpected pivots, but also deep connection, incredible light, and a grounded ceremony by the water. With tattoos, custom Chucks, and a close group of friends, their celebration was joyful and heartfelt from beginning to end.
From weather challenges to intimate moments (like Zoie’s locket holding her father’s ashes), this elopement was rich in emotion, meaning, and the kind of trust that makes beautiful photos possible, no matter what the forecast says.
Zoie and Alex came to Colorado from Missouri to get married on the side of a mountain, with their people, their playlists, and a whole lot of heart.
They had a permit in hand and a plan in mind… an outdoor elopement at Crystal Creek Reservoir, just off the Pikes Peak Highway near Colorado Springs. The lake behind them, clouds overhead, and everyone they love standing close. Sounds like the perfect day, right?
Then, Colorado did what it does best, and gave us some turbulence on our afternoon plans.
A Day That Didn't Go to Plan
The rain rolled in early, quiet and steady at first, and then harder. By the time we were all gathering at the reservoir, it was hailing. Thunder, cold wind, a total shift in what the day was supposed to be.
We tucked into the tiny gift shop to regroup. The kind of space that smells like postcards and sunscreen, filled with strangers trying to find dry places to stand.
Zoie and Alex stayed calm. No panic. No drama. Just patience.
We were going over plan B’s and C’s and at one point the shop manager said, “You can do it in here if you need to, we’ll close down.” Oh heck no. I wasn’t going to let them get married in a gift shop when we had the entire beautiy of Pikes Peak around us. We waited. We all know how Colorado can roll. Weather moves, quickly.
Making Space for What the Day Wanted
While we waited, I pulled them aside for a few photos, just the two of them. Zoie wore a locket with her father’s ashes around her neck, and Alex looked at her like she was the only person in the world. Jeezer, friends. What a love.
We found a quiet rhythm there, just for a moment. In the middle of the chaos, the rain, the uncertainty of what might unfold, they had that calm.
Eventually, the storm eased up. Not gone, but gentler. Enough that we could step outside and make our way down to the water. The chairs stayed in the vehicles that brought them, with the ground too wet to use. No one minded. Everyone just stood close and showed up. Each person fiding their spot on the shore, Pikes Peak large and snow-capped in front of them.
The Ceremony
Their friend married them by the edge of Crystal Creek Reservoir, with the mountains quiet in the distance and clouds hanging low.
No aisle. No arch. Just love and soft rain, and people pulled in close.
Zoie and Alex wore custom Chucks. Their crew was tattooed, wild, and joyful, a chosen family kind of crowd. The kind that shows up big, supports loud, and loves hard. The kind of group you’d want behind you in any kind of weather.
What the Storm Gave Us
This spot is usually a hard one for light, too harsh during the day, too backlit from the west. But that storm? It gave us cloud cover. Texture. Soft light. Color. Mood.
What was supposed to be a sunny mountain wedding turned into something deeper. More honest. The kind of day you remember not because it was perfect, but because everyone rolled with the imperfection and leaned on each other to find that silver lining.
If you’re planning an elopement in Colorado Springs, or looking at Pikes Peak wedding locations, this is one of those spots that can be as moody as it is magical.
Not every elopement goes to plan. But some of them become more than you expected.
Zoie and Alex didn’t get the weather they were hoping for. But they got something better: intimacy, presence, and a reminder that sometimes love shows up strongest when nothing else is going right.
If you're dreaming of a wedding that feels like you, no matter what the forecast says, I'm here for it. Let's plan something real, wild, and fully yours.
Romantic Sunset Couples Session in Lake George CO
A golden sunset, mountain views, and the sweetest young love—this Lake George couples session for Ivie and Nick was full of heart. From wildflower crowns to first-time dips, it captured their story beautifully.
Nick and Ivie are just beginning their journey together, and it was an honor to photograph them in this quiet moment of togetherness. Their connection, supported by family and rooted in trust, shines through every frame.
A Sweet Sunset Session for Ivie and Nick
When Nick's mom first reached out to book this session, I could already feel how loved these two were. Ivie and Nick are young, fresh into their college years, but the commitment and tenderness between them runs deep. Nick is currently attending West Point in New York, and when he was accepted, his family relocated to Colorado Springs. Ivie, choosing love and a leap of faith, moved with them. She's now living with his family and attending college here, which says so much about the trust and connection they've built, not just with each other, but across their families, too.
There’s something so special about photographing couples at the very beginning of their story. Everything feels fresh, tender, and full of possibility. This wasn’t just a milestone session, it was a love letter to who they are right now, and to everything they’re building together. And that’s something I feel so honored to witness.
Escaping the Storms for Mountain Calm
We chose Lake George for their session, tucked about an hour and a half up into the mountains from Colorado Springs. While the city had been drowning in one of the rainiest stretches I’ve ever seen, we managed to slip away from it, trading grey skies for glowing light and stillness. That escape felt like a gift. The air was clear and cool. The lake shimmered just enough. The mountains stood tall behind them like quiet witnesses.
Ivie had asked for water and mountains, and Lake George gave us both, with wide open space to run and play, soft fields that caught the light just right, and the kind of hush that makes it easy to sink into each other. It’s one of my favorite places for a reason.
Mountains, Wildflowers, and a First-Time Dip
Ivie wore cream and soft tones, grounded with an earthy wildflower crown she found on Etsy, a delicate touch that felt both whimsical and grounded, perfect for the open fields and lake views. (If you're looking for a similar crown for your own session, here’s one I love on Etsy.)
One of my favorite moments from the session was when I asked Nick to dip her. He laughed and said he never had before, so I walked him through it, step by step. And there, in the field with the mountains glowing behind them, he dipped her for the very first time. The way Ivie beamed, it was pure magic. That single moment, caught forever in golden light, felt like a promise, a beginning, a little piece of joy they’ll carry with them.
Sessions like these are a reminder of how sweet young love can be when it’s given the space to grow, supported and held by the people around it. I can’t wait to photograph them again someday, maybe for a milestone, maybe just because. Whatever it is, I know it’ll be full of heart.
Planning a Session at Lake George?
It’s one of my favorite locations for a reason, mountain views, open space, and gorgeous light almost every time. If you’re dreaming of a golden-hour session in the mountains, I’d love to help bring it to life.
Rocky Mountain National Park Proposal Photographer
Sarah and Kenji traveled from Texas to Estes Park for a romantic mountain getaway, and a photo session to remember it by. What they didn’t expect was that their couples session would turn into a surprise proposal at Sprague Lake in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park. With the original plan at Brainard Lake no longer an option due to seasonal closures, we quickly pivoted to one of my favorite hidden gems in RMNP, and it turned out to be the perfect backdrop for this once-in-a-lifetime moment.
This blog shares the full story of their spontaneous engagement, why Sprague Lake is such an ideal proposal spot, and how I help couples, especially those visiting from out of state, plan unforgettable photo experiences in the Colorado mountains. If you’re dreaming of popping the question during your vacation in Estes Park or Rocky Mountain National Park, this one’s for you.
A Surprise Proposal in Rocky Mountain National Park
Sarah and Kenji came all the way from Texas for a vacation in Estes Park, dreaming of the wild beauty only Rocky Mountain National Park can offer, and maybe just a few romantic photos to remember it by. What unfolded instead was a surprise proposal at Sprague Lake that none of us will ever forget. As a Colorado photographer who knows these trails like old friends, I helped guide them through a last-minute location pivot and witnessed one of the most heartfelt moments I’ve ever photographed. ✨
Sarah booked a session with me for their trip to Estes Park, dreamy Rocky Mountain vibes, romantic forest paths, snow-kissed peaks. Originally, we were aiming for Brainard Lake, one of my favorite tucked-away spots, but June in Colorado can still hold surprises of its own. When I scouted the area the day before, the gate was still locked. So we pivoted. Lucky for all of us, I’d been photographing a wedding the day before in Rocky Mountain National Park and had just spent time at Sprague Lake. I sent them some photos of the spot… and it was an immediate yes. So on June 11, we met at Sprague, not knowing just how special this evening would become.
Planning Around Nature’s Curveballs
Mountain sessions always come with a little “choose your own adventure” energy. But one of the biggest gifts I bring to the table is that I know these spots, where to go when Plan A is iced over, how to adjust when the weather turns or the gates don’t open. I’m always scouting, always watching light, always tuning in.
For Sarah and Kenji, that flexibility turned into a blessing. Sprague Lake gave us peaceful trails, reflections on still water, views that stretched and shimmered. And it gave Kenji a quiet pocket to pull me aside, whispering that he had a ring burning a hole in his pocket and he was ready to propose.
Vacationing in Estes Park? Let’s Make It Magical
Sarah had no idea. Like, no idea. She even packed an outfit change and thought nothing of it. I’d only spoken with Kenji briefly during our video consult (yes, all my couples get one so we can vibe and prep!) but hadn’t had a moment alone with him until he grabbed me in the parking lot, heart pounding. While she was adjusting, we quickly made a game plan. I helped him pick the perfect spot, tucked just far enough into the trees with that iconic lake view behind them.
When it happened… whew. The surprise on her face. The tears. The laughter. The YES. It was raw and real and filled with all that big love energy that makes my job the best in the world.
Why Sprague Lake is Perfect for a Proposal
Want to know why this spot worked so beautifully? Here's what you need to know:
No wedding permit required for photo sessions
Easy trail loop = accessibility without sacrificing views
Dreamy sunset light with water reflections + epic mountain views
Close to Estes Park, so perfect for vacationers
Bonus: it’s quiet, romantic, and feels tucked away
If you're planning a surprise proposal or engagement session in Colorado and don't know where to start, I’ve got you. This isn't just point-and-shoot photography. This is location scouting, timeline planning, emotional support, and storytelling.
Helping You Plan a Mountain Engagement Story
Here’s the thing about Rocky Mountain proposals: they’re intimate, personal, and yes, a little unpredictable. But when you’ve got someone by your side who knows the land, the light, and how to navigate the chaos with calm, the experience becomes unforgettable in the best way.
I help you choose the perfect spot. I guide you through the process. I capture the look on their face when they realize what’s happening. And I hold space for whatever unfolds after. Whether you’re dreaming of a surprise like Kenji’s or planning a mountaintop elopement with all the logistics dialed in, I’ve got your back.
Ready to Pop the Question in Colorado?
You don’t need to know every detail. You just need to know you love them, and you want the moment to feel like you. I’ll take care of the rest, from the permits (or lack thereof), to the Plan Bs, to the slow breath you take right before you drop to one knee.
Let’s create something wildly beautiful together.
Heartfelt Colorado Wedding at Pinecrest Weddings
Jess and Philip’s Colorado winter wedding at Pinecrest Weddings & Event Center was a heartfelt celebration just days before Christmas. With family and friends traveling from across the world, their love story, rooted in long-distance devotion, unfolded beautifully against the stunning Colorado mountain backdrop. From an intimate first look to golden-hour portraits near Palmer Lake, every moment was filled with warmth and connection. Their reception was a joyful celebration, complete with heartfelt conversations and an unforgettable dance floor. Step into this romantic Colorado wedding!
Some love stories are so beautifully woven together that you can’t help but be in awe of the journey that brought two people to their wedding day. Jess and Philip’s story is one of those, filled with adventure, faith, and a deep-rooted love that spanned continents before bringing them together at Pinecrest Weddings & Event Center in Palmer Lake, Colorado, for a breathtaking December wedding.
A Love Story That Crossed Continents
Jess and Philip’s love story wasn’t born from swiping right or casual meet-ups, it was something far more intentional. Their families had known each other, and in a world where love can sometimes feel fleeting, their story was anything but. When the time was right, Philip traveled all the way to Turkey just to meet Jess for their very first date. Imagine that, flying across the world just for a chance to see if there was something real between them. Spoiler: there absolutely was.
What followed was a long-distance relationship that tested their patience, strengthened their faith, and solidified their commitment to each other. They spent months navigating time zones, airport goodbyes, and the longing that comes with being so far apart. But in the end, they knew there was no distance too great for a love like theirs.
A Cozy December Wedding in the Mountains
There’s something magical about a winter wedding, especially one held just days before Christmas. Pinecrest Weddings & Event Center provided the perfect setting, rustic yet elegant, tucked away in the foothills, surrounded by towering pines and mountain views that stretched for miles.
The day started with a quiet stillness in the air, the kind that only a crisp winter morning can bring. Jess and Philip’s first look was one of my favorite moments of the entire day. It was just the two of them, away from the noise, standing in a peaceful embrace. No words were needed, just the way they looked at each other said everything.
Their ceremony was filled with the most beautiful touches, a heartfelt exchange of vows, scripture readings that spoke of love and commitment, and everyone singing together as one. With family and friends gathered from all over the country, and even across the world, it felt like a true reflection of their journey. Every moment was rich with meaning, every glance filled with the weight of knowing this was the beginning of forever.
Horses, Sunsets, and the Most Breathtaking Couples Photos
After the ceremony, we stepped outside for couples portraits that could have been straight out of a storybook. One of the most unique parts of this location? The pasture we passed on our way to our intended location was filled with horses. We couldn’t help but stop. It added such an unexpected touch of rustic charm to their wedding day (and gallery). The horses wandered in the background as Jess and Philip held each other close, soaking in the quiet moments after saying "I do."
As golden hour approached, I made our way to a nearby scenic overlook, and let me tell you, the sunset did NOT disappoint. The sky lit up in the most incredible shades of orange and yellow as the sun dipped behind the mountains. They stood hand in hand, watching the last light of the day fade into the horizon, and I couldn’t help but think how perfectly that moment reflected their journey, waiting, trusting, and then stepping into something beautifully unknown.
A Celebration Filled With Love and Dance Moves
Once we returned to the venue, the reception was in full swing. The warmth inside was a beautiful contrast to the crisp winter air outside, and the love in the room was palpable. Guests gathered around tables, sharing laughter, heartfelt toasts, and stories of the couple’s journey.
But when the dancing started? Oh. My. Gosh. Jess’ dad and brother stole the show! Their dance moves had everyone on their feet, cheering and clapping along, and before long, the entire room was alive with celebration. It was the perfect mix of heartfelt and lively, a true reflection of who Jess and Philip are.
As the night came to a close, I looked around at all the love surrounding them and knew this wasn’t just a wedding, it was a homecoming. Two hearts, once separated by an ocean, now standing side by side, beginning the next chapter of their story together.
Capturing Your Colorado Wedding Story
Being part of Jess and Philip’s wedding was an absolute honor. From the stunning scenery to the deep-rooted love they share, every moment was a reminder of why I do what I do.
If you're planning a Colorado Springs wedding or a Colorado mountain wedding, I’d love to be there to document your day in a way that feels true to you. From helping you find the perfect location to capturing those quiet, intimate moments, I’m here to make sure your wedding day is everything you dreamed it would be.
Let’s chat about your wedding! Reach out today and let’s create something beautiful together.
The Fruits of a Long Marriage: A Heartfelt Session
Where to begin? Dana and Tom, this is what 30 years together looks like, friends. Take a moment and soak it all in. Thirty years of laughter, all-nighters, frustration, blissful times, sad times, downright hellish times. I am sure that you two have seen it all with so much tread worn in your journey. When you connect so deeply that you don’t know how else to feel or think. What a world to live in. A world where you are each other’s anchor. Rooted in the ground so firmly that nothing can disturb the solid foundation.
Maybe those are just wild dreams? What if love isn’t any of that? What if love is simply the choice to keep choosing each day to do what moves you. To keep with the vibe until the vibe isn’t what you want anymore? I know that people say that relationships are hard. Damn fact, friends.
Where to begin? Dana and Tom, this is what 30 years together looks like, friends. Take a moment and soak it all in. Thirty years of laughter, all-nighters, frustration, blissful times, sad times, downright hellish times. I am sure that you two have seen it all with so much tread worn in your journey. When you connect so deeply that you don’t know how else to feel or think. What a world to live in. A world where you are each other’s anchor. Rooted in the ground so firmly that nothing can disturb the solid foundation.
Maybe those are just wild dreams? What if love isn’t any of that? What if love is simply the choice to keep choosing each day to do what moves you. To keep with the vibe until the vibe isn’t what you want anymore? I know that people say that relationships are hard. Damn fact, friends.
These two have it figured out and being so, they have a lifetime of memories between them to share. I invited Dana and Tom to bring along with them tokens of their 30-year marriage to remember all of the choices they made and keep on making with each other. I love this part of our time together. Going through all the beautiful and important items you’ve brought along. Their daughter, Kayla brought along a sweet surprise. She had collected letters from those close to her parents that share stories about how Dana and Tom influenced their own relationships and lives. I’m not crying. You're crying. Okay, Kayla, Dana, and Tom are crying. It was pretty damn beautiful and I appreciate the vulnerability they had sharing that moment with me.
