A. & E. | Adventure Engagement Photoshoot at Artist Point, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, PNW

I had the fortune of meeting the delightful A. and E. at the end of summer. 

They wanted a scenic mountain location with moderate hiking. I suggested Artist Point at Mt. Baker in Washington, as the scenery is incredible and would make a wonderful setting for A. and E's memories. And that was the plan.

Alas, as the days creeped closer to the shoot, thick forest fire smoke made its way to the area and threatened to ruin everything. Though we've already scouted a backup site, I couldn't help worrying and checking the weather forecasts at our preferred spot like a maniac!

Luckily, the forecast the day before the shoot announced a window of clear sky and pleasant conditions. I was ecstatic.

Our adventure started at Picture Lake, a place A. and E. had only seen in photos. We took a leisurely hike through lush blueberry meadows to the lake and were absolutely captivated by the strikingly-refined reflection of Mount Shuksan in its placid waters. Breathtakingly magnificent, the 9,127 ft snow-capped peak was glistening in the sun.

The main part of the shoot then took place at Artist Point. A place of wonder, Artist Point is tucked away in the North Cascades and offers mind-blowing views of mountains, glaciers and lakes. If you look and listen close enough, you might even spot mountain goats, marmots and bald eagles in the wild!

What a privilege it was to capture the love and admiration this lovely couple had towards each other. Weather is beyond my control but I made sure that A. and E. felt comfortable and at ease in front of the camera, capturing the true essence of their emotions and expressions. I look back with pride at what we accomplished together and am excited to share it.

Kind words from the couple: 

Valerie is amazing!! She really knows how to bring out the most natural facial expressions and capture them with her camera! My biggest challenge prior to doing the couple photos was that both me and my fiancé are not good at posing – we get super stiff in front of the camera. The way she guided us throughout the entire photo session made me think deeper and more appreciative of our relationship, and the shooting process was super fun and enjoyable. I am really amazed at how the photos turned out! Thank you Valerie!!

Discover Beautiful Adventure Elopements & couple sessions

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I’m Valerie, your adventure elopement photographer

My style is called “candid photography.” The idea is to preserve moments as they were, not as we wish they looked.

Before we speak, I ask you to fill out the contact form. It helps me better understand what you want to get from your elopement. Knowing precisely what you want, I can offer you the best locations, activities, and vendors. Don’t worry if you don’t have a concept for your event. Together we’ll find the best solution. What I really won’t do is force you to accept something that I suggested. This is your day, and I just help you to turn your thoughts, ideas, and dreams into reality.

Friendship is not something you can buy, but here you will get a real friend. Yes, I’ll be pretty much invisible during the elopement, but as with any intimate event, the elopement goes better when you are surrounded by people you trust. I’ll try to become that kind of person for your couple. I’ll help you to spend this day in a relaxed atmosphere. One of the most popular reasons why people choose to elope is the desire to spend the wedding day without haste and fuss. Your elopement will be adventurous but stress-free!  I'll be your rock, your shoulder to lean on.

Finally, when we discuss all the details, and you choose everything from location and date to clothes and champagne, I’ll get my camera. At that moment, my purpose will be to capture your real feelings and emotions. I’m not going to tell you what to do and how to pose. Our common goal is to save these brilliant moments of your love story, not to do posed photography.