Glacier Engagement Shoot

I’m no stranger to surprise engagement shoots. I am, however, always surprised by the little things that make unrehearsed shoots unique. When I received the message asking about a surprise engagement shoot in October at Glacier National Park I expected interested weather conditions, but I did not expect the moment I would capture that afternoon.

It was a cold and snowy day. Blizzardy actually, although that description comes easy for a photographer originally from Louisiana. We considered cancelling on account of the conditions, but muscled through the afternoon and I found my hiding spot as the client arrived with his girlfriend at the Lake McDonald dock.

The moment was already going to be unforgettable with a strong wind and the chill to accompany it. I emerged from hiding just as the groom knelt to pop the question. At that exact moment, with ring in hand, a sizable wave breached the dock, soaking the two love birds. Thankfully she thought it was a hilariously unforgettable moment urging him to roll with the rogue wave’s punch.

This experience taught me a few things. First, get all of your technical settings ready because anything can happen in a surprise shoot. Second, don’t be afraid of less than ideal conditions. Unique moments come when you step out of your comfort zone. I know that the next time the situation changes on me my first response won’t necessarily be to reschedule.

Let me know what you think of this moment and if you’re had a similar moment of your own!