“Photos That Are Vibey, Editorial, and Cool AF”
Rachel & Mario’s
Non-Traditional Engagement Session
Rachel reached out to me about this session with one goal in mind: photos that were anything but traditional. Instead she wanted an editorial-style, more artistic Breckenridge engagement session.
“We’re two people that are awkward in front of a camera that just want cool photos unlike everyone else’s typical engagement photos. Nothing about us has been traditional and we don’t see why we’d start now lol.”
She then went on to describe the vision – cocktail attire meets mountain adventure; bow ties and champagne, the luxury ski lifestyle chased with a shot of Jack. And with that, my creative mind became a whirlwind of ideas. First was, choosing the perfect location in Breckenridge. We needed somewhere easily accessible with stunning views that would encapsulate Rachel and Mario’s time in the mountains. They also wanted somewhere private to give them the space to open up and be their true selves without the judgement of anyone else around. Luckily as a Breckenridge photographer, after many years of exploring these trails, I knew the perfect place!
Intentionally Planning Your Engagement Session
To truly understand my couples on a deeper level, I always send out a pre-session questionnaire. Not only is this the foundation of my inspiration for the session, but it also helps me provide prompts and poses that feel in line with how you naturally express love.
One of my favorite questions I ask couples is their love languages. While most people tend to respond with either physical touch or words of affirmation, for Rachel, acts of service holds the most meaning. Although Mario may have a hard exterior to strangers, with Rachel, he is soft, tender, and cares for her every need. I love how this overall theme was woven throughout the entire day. In their care for each other, you can see the strength of their love really shine!
A Snowy Day With a Fiery Love
Rachel and Mario first met in both working for the alcohol industry, so it was only fitting that we kicked off the session with a little Jack Daniels to warm things up. Our session day was cold, windy, and single digit temps, but you’d never be able to tell. Rachel stuffed every spare pocket available with hand warmers, and we kept puffy jackets + big blankets nearby. We spent so much time laughing and joking around throughout the session, the cold was simply an afterthought!
Luxury Ski Culture Meets Editorial-Style Aesthetic
Rachel and Mario’s favorite memories together have always been ski trips to Colorado. “It’s so special to us and such a therapeutic vacation of just nonstop fun and partying. We look forward to continuing the tradition.” With that, we traded in high heels for ski boots and grabbed a bottle of bubbly. After all, you can’t emulate true European après ski culture without spraying champagne!
If you’re not comfortable in front of the camera, including an activity helps loosen up and focus on each other. It also turns the day into a memory and gives your photos meaning to look back and smile upon.
Photos That Feel Authentic to You
Nothing says Colorado more than a can of Coors and a joint, and I just love how this picture encapsulates it all – cold air matched with even cooler personalities. A session grounded in doing things the way you like to, not how our culture dictates, with the one person in this world who is just as unconventional as you and loves you unconditionally, just the way you are!
Rachel and Mario, what a joy it was to tell your love story and bring this editorial-style Breckenridge winter engagement session to life!
BONUS: Breckenridge Trip Recommendations:
If you’re planning a Breckenridge Engagement Session, check out a few of my favorite places while you are in town.
Mountain-style accommodations:
- Gravity Haus (hotel, restaurant, coffee shop, gym + more!)
Best places to eat:
- Giampietro (upscale Italian)
- Breckenridge Brewery (casual bites)
- Blue Stag (cozy interior w/ outdoor fireplace)
- Blue River Bistro (upscale American dining)
For drinks:
- RMU (local spot for happy hour drinks)
- Broken Compass (casual brewery)
For dessert:
- Mountain Top Cookie Shop (you’ll thank me later!)
This looks like such a fun shoot! Not only cool photos, but a good time. Definitely want to do a shoot like this one day, dressed up on the slopes!!
A shoot like this with you would be an absolute dream! Throw in Austin cliff jumping in the background, and we’d take the concept to a whole new level!