Let me just start by saying the journey getting to this session was an adventure within itself.

Kelly + Travis’ Diablo Lake Engagement Session was something out of a postcard. The view of Diablo Lake and their intense love for one another felt totally unreal and amazing at the same time.

For this session I was second shooting/assisting for Works By Sarah Jane Photography who is a dear friend of mine in the photography industry. I joined her on this adventure to be a co-pilot, second shooter, and also dog wrangler (You’ll see more of that below)! We ran into every problem under the sun getting to this session such as unanticipated traffic, road work and a few crazy drivers trying to run us off the road! But once we got there, it was ALL. SO. WORTH. IT.

This was my first adventure to Diablo Lake up in the North Cascades of Washington State and let me tell you, this place is magical. The reflection of the vast forest of trees on the lake creates the most beautiful teal colored water that has now become so iconic in the hiking and photography world.

But the coolest part? Diablo Lake was second in line to the love that we saw between Kelly and Travis. Sure, we were at this stunning location with virtually perfect lighting, but the part that made it PURE magic was these two. Hearing about their love story, the trials they faced together, and the joy and passion they share in their relationship just took this experience into a whole other place.

I cherish deeply the relationships that we learn about through this creative job, but also the relationships we create with the couples we capture. This wasn’t just an engagement session; it was an adventure, a thrill and just another day to show great love to your favorite person. I hope you enjoy this as much as I did.

*Note: I have learned since we shot at this location, that the light colored dirt region that you see in the majority of these photos is currently closed off from public use. Please take some time to research, read signs, and use your best judgement when visiting these locations so that you can properly follow Leave No Trace principles and respect the guidelines put in place by the park.

Just a reminder to visit the National Park Service website to learn more information about regional closures, weather advisory and permit requirements for the location you wish to visit and shoot at.