Tessa + Kris // Pacific Northwest Engagement // Vista House
There's a certain magic that envelops the Pacific Northwest during sunset, especially when the skies clear to reveal breathtaking views. On one such enchanting evening, Tessa and Kris joined me at the historic Vista House in Portland for their engagement session—a perfect blend of love, laughter, and adventure. As an Idaho-based wedding photographer, I relish in capturing these unique experiences for couples who are adventurous, fun-loving, and deeply connected to each other and the world around them.
Our photo shoot began on a sunlit path, surrounded by lush greenery, with the sun filtering through the trees to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Tessa wore a lovely pink floral dress that perfectly complemented Kris's dark floral-patterned shirt, setting a playful yet stylish tone for the day. Hand in hand, they walked along the tree-lined path, sharing smiles and whispers, their connection evident in every glance.
As we continued, the couple embraced in the soft, dappled light—a moment so tender and genuine that it seemed as though the world around them had faded away. This is what I love most about photography: the ability to freeze such intimate moments in time, allowing couples to relive their emotions whenever they look back at their photos.
Our adventure took us to a grassy field, where Tessa and Kris sat closely together, surrounded by the serene beauty of the landscape. They leaned into each other, sharing quiet laughter and tender moments, with the historic stone structure of Vista House creating a picturesque backdrop. They weren't afraid to be a little silly, to be themselves, and to truly enjoy the moment. It was clear that their relationship was built on a foundation of friendship and fun, something that resonated deeply with my own values of wonder, joy, and adventure. The warm, golden light of the setting sun added a dreamy quality to the scene, highlighting their love and joy in a way that only nature can.
One of the highlights of the session was incorporating Kris's love for motorcycles. With Tessa embracing him from behind, they rode along a scenic road, the wind in their hair and the sun casting a warm glow over them. It was a perfect representation of their adventurous spirit and shared passions. The motorcycle provided a dynamic element to the session, adding to the uniqueness of their story. Moments like these make engagement sessions memorable and personal, capturing the essence of what makes each couple's journey special.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Tessa and Kris shared a tender embrace on a stone balcony overlooking the serene Columbia River Gorge. The clear sky and tranquil river below mirrored their peaceful and contented state, creating a stunning silhouette against the backdrop of the sunset. This moment, captured in the golden hourlight, was the perfect conclusion to a day filled with love and laughter.
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Tessa and Kris's engagement session at Vista House was a beautiful reminder of why I love what I do. Their joy, love, and adventurous spirit made for a truly special day, and I can't wait to see what the future holds for them. If you're ready to capture your own once-in-a-lifetime love story, let's make it happen!