Whitefish Mountains, Montana - August 2025
Derrik & Brynlie have been married for just over a year and were traveling up to Montana from Utah for a short work trip when they reached out about photos. They were down for shooting anywhere, which is always music to my ears.
We piled into my old Subaru (not sponsored, but I should be!) and headed up a very rutty, bumpy dirt road to a spot I had only discovered a few weeks prior. It was about an hour out of town, and along the way we chatted about their love story and how different this corner of Montana felt from Salt Lake City.
Once we reached the top, I scoped out our first location while Derrik helped Brynlie into her dress. It was absolutely stunning with floral details, delicate lace and a lovely train that created a beautiful silhouette. As I roamed the area, my eyes fell on this natural frame I loved (below), and I excitedly ran back to the car to direct them.
As we started shooting, their chemistry became so apparent. Their connection seemed so steady and calm and made shooting them so effortless.
This hill we shot on sloped gently at the top but dropped off steeply in places which made it a great spot to sit back and take in the view.
On the way back to the top of the hill, I spotted another shot and directed them for a lift. Derrik then lifted Brynlie while a light breeze caught her hair and veil just right.
The breeze picked up a bit and Brynlie's veil fell out of her hair at one point, and she caught it, but it started creating these beautiful shapes around and behind her so we ran with it. These spontaneous moments are often the best and create such beautiful images. These are actually some of our favorites from the shoot!
One benefit of shooting in the national forest is the solitude; we didn't see a single other soul up there! Another bonus during late summer? Big, ripe Huckleberries!
Facing east, Glacier National Park's peaks are visible in the background. Turning 180 degrees completely changed the mood and lighting. The diffused light from the low sun through thin clouds created this lovely glow.
When the clouds suddenly opened up behind us, warm, beautiful sunlight poured over us, and we chased that light for every shot we could. I was absolutely giddy, and D+B humored me and frolicked in the sunlight together.
As the sun set and golden hour wrapped around us, we soaked it up. These are the moments I live for — dramatic light, major chemistry, and beautiful places.
After blue hour settled in, we captured a few final moments before heading down the mountain.
I can honestly say that this was one of my favorite shoots to date. I'm beyond proud of these photos and loved working with Derrik and Brynlie. The scenery and lighting were beautiful but their love and chemistry is what really made these photos so magical. I'm already looking forward to the next "take me anywhere" inquiry.
Are you a couple who’s down for an adventure elopement or engagement session in Montana?
Let’s connect — I’d love to create something unforgettable with you.
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