Kristen and Dakota’s engagement session was filled with laughter, beautiful moments, and a touch of adventure. We started the session exploring Kristen’s charming neighborhood, which provided the perfect mix of cozy and picturesque backdrops. Kristen’s first outfit set the tone—an adorable dress embroidered with bows. She and I instantly connected over our shared love for bows, admiring the delicate details of her dress. Bows are so timeless and elegant! It’s no wonder this year has been dubbed the “year of the bow.”

During one of my favorite poses, I asked Kristen to emphasize crossing her legs as she walked—a little trick that creates a more flattering silhouette. Not to be outdone, Dakota took it upon himself to dramatically exaggerate his steps, crossing his legs like a pro runway model. He had all of us cracking up! Don’t worry, I included a photo of it below 🙂 Moments like these are what make sessions so special—capturing not just the love between a couple, but their unique personalities and shared humor that make their relationship one-of-a-kind.

As golden hour approached, Kristen and Dakota suggested we head to a creek nearby. Getting there involved an impromptu hike through the woods. While I hadn’t exactly dressed for a trek, I wasn’t about to let that stop us! My less-than-ideal footwear turned into a funny memory, and the resulting photos were absolutely worth it. The soft, golden light filtering through the trees and the peaceful creek created the most magical setting to close out our time together.

Kristen and Dakota, thank you so much for trusting me to capture this special season of your lives. Your joy and laughter made this session an absolute delight, and I’m so honored to be part of your journey. I can’t wait to celebrate with you on your wedding day and document the next chapter of your love story!