What does it feel like to get married in during wildflower season in Northern Montana? In the heart of June, when the breeze whispers secrets through the towering pines and the wildflowers burst forth in a riot of colors, there exists a kind of magic that can only be found in Montana’s embrace. Picture this: a warm summer sun filtering through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor, where love stories unfold like the pages of an epic novel. Isn’t it fascinating how nature seems to conspire in such moments, aligning the universe for two souls who have found their perfect counterpart?

Winter sessions aren't the most popular thing in the world, as they are cold and overall harder to execute because it may be hard to walk around, and wear the clothes you want to!

However, when someone does decide to do winter photos, the hard work is WORTH IT! This stunning day in Whitefish, Montana was perfect as the most fluffy snow had just fallen throughout Northern Montana. The pristine whiteness of the background made Emalee's dress really stand out! In all, I really hope to book more seniors throughout the winter as it's beautiful and unique!

A lot of my clients come from southern states and aren't all that familiar with snow. To prepare, especially if you're not familiar with snowy places, you'll need:

1. A car with a good grip. If you're renting a car, ask for something that's 4x4 with snow tires. The roads are sometimes completely covered with snow.

2. Extra clothes for after your session. This is especially true for kids. I highly encourage my families to roll around, throw snowballs, and get snowy. This means wetness in the car!

3. Hand warmers! I always have these in my bag to give to clients, but extras are always a good idea.

4. A good attitude! You're going to get cold. We will keep moving, and laughing, and in some places, we can even keep the car running for warm breaks.

Millions of people travel to Glacier National Park every year, and many bring dogs! However, dogs are not allowed in most areas for their protection and the delicate wildlife ecosystem of the park. So where can you take them out of the car and where can we stay with them?

Here is an excerpt straight from the National Park Service website -

"Pets are allowed in developed areas such as: in your cars while driving park roads, front country campgrounds, picnic areas, along roads when you are stopped, in parking areas, and in boats on lakes where motorized watercraft are permitted. Pets are not permitted on trails, along lake shores outside of developed locations, in the backcountry, or in any building. Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet (1.8 m), under physical restraint, or caged at all times, including while in open-bed pickup trucks. Pets are not to be left tied to an object when unattended. Pet owners must pick up after their pets and dispose of waste in a trash receptacle. Owners must not allow a pet to make noise that is unreasonable. When the bike path between Apgar and West Glacier is free of snow dogs are allowed on leash. When roads are closed to vehicle traffic, they are considered a backcountry trail and dogs are not allowed. What can you do with your pet when you are hiking? Do not leave your pet in a closed vehicle. If the air temperature outside is 80 degrees F, it will only take two minutes for the temperature inside your vehicle to reach over 94 degrees. Within an hour it can reach over 120 degrees F. Glacier National Park frequently sees days well in excess of 90 degrees, increasing those internal car temperatures dramatically."

Brad reached out the day before their session date to see if I would be available! Luckily I was, and this couple was just so in love, and capturing their genuine emotions and connection on camera was heartwarming. As the sun began to set, the light was absolutely perfect, casting a warm glow over the couple as they cuddled up together. It was such a magical evening, and I feel so grateful to have been able to document such a special moment in their relationship!

The most important thing to prepare in the fall is A GOOD ATTITUDE! The weather will do what it wants, and only you can choose to have a good time still. Here are some other ways to prep:

1. Bear spray

2. Extra hair spray and makeup

3. You may get rained on - like this couple. Bring a towel!

4. I provide clear umbrellas, but it's good to have one of your own

5. Hiking boots (this bride is wearing Uggs) and snow gear

6. It's beautiful literally everywhere here! If we have to change locations - HAVE A GOOD ATTITUDE!

Here's a link straight from the Glacier National Park website on info on permits and construction closures (I help with all of this). In the fall, reservation requirements end on September 28th but you still need a permit to have your ceremony in the park! You must get that permit application in asap - it can take a few weeks to get back! All in all eloping in the mountains is so magical and romantic. It's a wonderful story to tell others about one day, and with a photographer on your side, you're going to have some badass art to hang on your walls and show off to your friends!

This wonderful baby announcement session became a gorgeous, romantic vacation photo session in Glacier National Park. I love taking my out-of-state clients to multiple locations in the park, as there is so much variety to offer, it's as if you're getting multiple photoshoots in one! We started at the bridge, just outside of the entrance to the park. This is one of my favorite locations, as it offers stunning turquoise water with beautiful rocks to climb on for a unique and artistic feel. Then we moved onto Lake Mcdonald, which offers stunning views with the ability to see Alpinglow during golden hour. We were having so much fun, that we extended the session (for free) and these two really were so comfortable in front of the camera. I often ask my clients to get into the water. It's a wonderful and beautiful experience (also a cold one, haha) that adds so much dimension and story to photos.

All in all, this is a great example of why booking a long enough session to do 2 locations is so necessary!

Love,

Alex, your favorite Glacier National Park maternity, family, couples, engagement, and elopement photographer