couple cuddling on rocky cliffside overlooking puget sound

Deception Pass State Park Engagement Photos

When I first heard from Clare and Joey about photographing their wedding in Walla Walla, they mentioned that it was important to them to find a photographer that was going to put them at ease while in front of the camera on their wedding day. This is one of my highest priorities when working with couples. The last thing I want them to feel on their wedding day is like they are posing for photos the whole time or being followed around by a stranger with a camera for hours. My goal is to always create a space where my couples can be laid-back and feel comfortable throughout their wedding day.

One great way to do this is to take engagement photos before your wedding! Getting to spend intentional time with your wedding photographer, not just over FaceTime or on planning phone calls, can help ease any pressure you might be feeling about being in front of the camera. Clare and Joey made the decision to go this route and even got to bring their pup Ramona with them, which made this evening all the more fun and laid back. Not only did an engagement session give us an opportunity to get to know each other better, but the result of feeling more comfortable in front of the camera allows me to capture even more sweet candid moments that are natural, relaxed, and tell the story of the couple in a unique and memorable way.

On a beautiful summer evening, we decided to meet at Deception Pass State Park for their engagement photos. This was the perfect location for this session, not only because the park is stunning, but because there are endless trails and bluffs to meander, dogs are allowed, and golden hour there is unmatched. From exploring trails and walking along the coastline to watching the sunset, I had so much fun spending time with these two and I can hardly wait to be there to capture their wedding day.

couple holding hands at deception pass state park along rocky coastline

engagement photos at deception pass state park along rocky coastline

About the Couple

Joey & Clare met while studying at Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington. They became fast friends and began dating their sophomore year. The year after graduation the two went their separate ways but stayed in touch throughout the course of that year and a half. Eventually, they both separately admitted to friends that they were still in love. Clare ended up having friends drop her off at Joey's at the end of a trip to Seattle and they got back together. The two did a year and a half of long distance and then Clare moved up to Seattle so they could begin to build their lives together.

In September of 2023, Clare and Joey will be heading back to Walla Walla, where it all began, to hold their wedding ceremony at Kinhaven Winery. After getting to know these two during their engagement session and witnessing their fun, easy-going relationship, I could not be more excited to get to photograph their wedding this summer in my home town of Walla Walla.