An engagement session in Riding Mountain National Park here in Manitoba was the absolute best pick for adventurers + hikers Matt + Nat!
Picture this: a moody day, the sky heavy with clouds, and two souls deeply in love, ready to take on the great outdoors. Matt + Nat had a whole thrifted, vintage vibe planned for our shoot in Clear Lake (a small town in Riding Mountain), so it was perfect that we just HAPPENED to stumble across this epic VW Van 🌼 but more on that later!
Something I loved so much about this session was that Nat + Matt made an entire experience out of our session. Riding Mountain is almost a 4 hour drive from where we live in Winnipeg, Manitoba – so they did the super cool (and practical thing) and booked themselves an oTENTik right in the park. They stayed overnight and I showed up the following day!
Nathalie brought her hammock (when then inspired me to buy the same one for camping) and we had a ton of fun just walking around in the woods near their oTENTik.
They changed into their second outfits for our session, going for a bougie thrifted vibe. Nat’s coat being an heirloom from Matt’s family, and such a perfect fit for our session!
Our journey led us through dense forests, along winding trails, and finally to the shores of Clear Lake. With their thrifted outfits and Nat’s heirloom coat, they looked like something out of a magazine shoot, but it was their genuine connection and infectious laughter that brought the magic to their photos!
If Nat and Matt’s wild ride through Riding Mountain National Park has inspired you to plan your own outdoorsy engagement session, then you’ve come to the right place.
Here are some tips to help you craft an experience that’s as epic as your love story:
Embrace Your Style
Whether you’re into thrifted vintage vibes or modern minimalist, let your personal style shine through in every aspect of your session. From your outfits to the location, make sure it reflects who you are as a couple.
Scout Out Epic Locations (or as me to!)
The great outdoors is your playground, so don’t be afraid to explore! Research local parks, forests, beaches, or mountains that speak to your sense of adventure. Look for hidden gems like secluded trails, breathtaking vistas, or charming campsites that will add a touch of magic to your photos. Also feel free to ask me if I have any “off the beaten path” ideas, because I have TONS!
Be Prepared for the Weather
Mother Nature can be unpredictable, so make sure you’re prepared for whatever she throws your way. Pack layers, waterproof gear, and any other essentials you might need to stay comfortable during your session. And don’t forget to check the forecast beforehand! I always bring umbrellas to engagement sessions – just in case.
Incorporate Meaningful Props
Whether it’s a family heirloom, a beloved pet, or a favorite activity, incorporating meaningful props can add depth and personality to your photos. Think outside the box and get creative with props that tell your unique love story.
Focus on the Experience
Remember, your engagement session is about more than just taking photos—it’s about creating memories that will last a lifetime. So don’t be afraid to let loose, have fun, and enjoy the adventure together. Whether you’re hiking through the woods, roasting marshmallows over a campfire, or cuddling up in a cozy yurt, savor every moment and let your love shine through.
Hire a Photographer Who Gets You!
Last but not least, choose a photographer who shares your passion for adventure and understands what makes your love story special. Someone who will not only capture beautiful photos but also make you feel comfortable, relaxed, and truly yourself in front of the camera.
Planning an outdoorsy engagement session like Nat and Matt’s is all about embracing the wild, letting your love story unfold naturally, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
We had an absolute blast capturing the creative shots that really reflected their style and personalities. From the moment we spotted that vintage van, I knew we were in for a memorable adventure. We wandered around the beach, trails, and eventually back to their rented yurt. Along the way, we laughed, we joked, and we snapped some truly epic shots.
We even caught some of their session on film, one of my favourite things especially when it’s overcast!
I’m a people person at heart. The best part of this whole thing is getting to know you and your story, and forming a genuine connection! After a few hours of wandering and shooting, Matt + Nat invited me back to the oTENTik + we cooked some grilled cheese together on a portable stove, enjoying the simple pleasure of good food and great company in the great outdoors. Nat even introduced me to my new favourite cider—a delightful surprise that added an extra layer of warmth to our already magical day!
Nat and Matt’s love story is just beginning, and I feel incredibly grateful to be a part of it.
So here’s to love, laughter, and vintage vibes. Here’s to Nat and Matt, whose love knows no bounds, and whose journey together is nothing short of extraordinary. Literally, as I write this, they’re off on a grand tour of Europe before tying the knot this summer!
And here’s to capturing moments that are more than just photos—they’re memories that will last a lifetime. ✌🏼
