During the summer, Drew and I packed up the Honda and headed northeast with two of our best friends for the Fourth of July. We listened to a Canadian radio station and ate Mexican food (maybe not the most patriotic day lol), and we camped at Diablo Lake. The views were absolutely stunning. Diablo Lake is a beautiful blue gem perfectly nestled between mountains of deep green pine trees. Sign. Me. Up.

So, when Katie and Max told me the characteristics of where they wanted to take their engagement photos, I was reminded of the stunning views from the Diablo Lake Overlook, and I knew it was meant to be!

Our day started at the exact campground where Drew and I danced to the Canadian radio during the summer. We went to a dock at the base of Diablo Lake, where Katie and Max’s miniature golden doodle Moe truly stole the show (keep scrolling, look for the paw, and you’ll know what I’m talking about). Our moments on the dock were so peaceful and still. There was no one around; it was just Katie and Max (and Moe).

Now, this is the part of the blog where Mollie brags about how freaking cool nature is. Thanks for tuning in! I feel like every time I go on a hike, go camping, or even just go on a run outside, there is something that nature does to me! There’s a stillness, a patience, and a calmness that our cities and culture quite honestly lack. By escaping the traffic and cell phone signal, we have an opportunity to slow down, breathe some fresh air, and actually look at the view in front of us. I mean, how cool is that?!

Engagement Session Outfit Inspiration

If you love Katie and Max’s formal look, then you’ll die when you see how Natalie’s dress matched the sunset over Mount Rainier. It looks like they (Natalie and Rainier lol) planned it. Maybe your style is a little more casual? Check out Brooke and Clay’s look at the Big Four Ice Caves!

Anyways, now that I’m off my soapbox about how cool nature is, we can get back to Katie and Max. We hiked up to the Diablo Lake Overlook, and Katie changed into a stunning dress. I love when my clients bring an outfit change. It really allows for them to show more of their personality in their photos.

The sun began to set on Katie and Max, and they popped a bottle of champagne (yum). One of my favorite things about this mountain engagement session with Katie and Max is how comfortable they became in front of the camera. That is always one of my biggest goals as a photographer is to make anyone and everyone feel confidently themselves as I take their picture. I always feel so honored when I can tell a couple is becoming more comfortable in front of my camera. These two will tie the knot in July, and I am so excited to capture their summer Seattle wedding.

THE HEART BEHIND THE CAMERA LENS

Want to read more about my passion and love for photography? Ever wonder how Between the Pine became a thing? You can read all about who I am by clicking here. Also, if you’re looking for some clever entertainment, check out where the inspiration came from for Katie and Max’s butt-grab picture by scrolling through the pictures of me and my husband (lol!).