Winter in Montana creates the perfect backdrop for an engagement session with its snow-covered trails and crisp mountain air. When Quinci and Mitch booked me as their wedding photographer for their upcoming wedding in Helena in August 2025, they knew they wanted outdoor winter engagement photos to capture this special time in their lives.
They also had one non-negotiable request: their beloved Chocolate Lab, Boone, had to be part of the session!
Why We Chose Blue Mountain Trailhead for Their Winter Engagement Photos
With so many beautiful outdoor locations in and around Missoula, there’s no shortage of great spots for engagement sessions. But Blue Mountain Trailhead quickly became the obvious choice for Quinci and Mitch’s session.
This location is one of my favorites for engagement photography, thanks to its great views of surrounding mountains and the Missoula valley, as well as its perfect positioning for optimum golden-hour light. While a dramatic sunset wasn’t in the cards for this particular shoot due to the overcast winter skies, the landscape was still gorgeous — with a beautiful blanket of fresh, white snow as a backdrop for their connection and love.
Including Their Dog, Boone, in Their Engagement Photos
Boone, their playful Chocolate Lab, was an essential part of the session. He had a blast running through the snow, greeting other dogs on the trail, and occasionally stealing the spotlight in front of the camera. Pets add so much personality and authenticity to engagement photos, and Boone was no exception.
One of our favorite moments was when Quinci and Mitch both leaned in to give Boone a kiss on each cheek — a photo that is now one of their favorites!
First-Time Photo Session? No Problem!
Like many couples, Quinci and Mitch had never had professional photos taken together before their engagement session. It’s completely normal to feel a little nervous at first, but my goal as a wedding and engagement photographer is to make the experience fun, relaxed, and natural.
As we walked up the trail, we chatted and got to know each other, which helped ease the pre-session jitters. I guided them through different poses and prompts to bring out their personalities, from playful moments to sweet, intimate shots. The result? A collection of stunning winter engagement photos that feel genuine, joyful, and uniquely them.
Their Advice for Other Couples Planning Engagement Photos
When I asked Quinci and Mitch if they had any advice for other couples preparing for an engagement session, their response was simple:
“Don’t overthink it!”
It’s easy to stress about what to wear, how to pose, or if everything will look perfect. But at the end of the day, your engagement photos should reflect who you are as a couple. The best photos happen when you relax, enjoy the moment, and trust your photographer to capture your connection naturally.
Looking Ahead to Their 2025 Wedding
As we wrapped up the session, Quinci and Mitch shared their excitement about their Helena wedding coming up in August 2025 — and down the road even expanding their family beyond just Boone! I can’t wait to capture their big day and continue documenting their love story.
Planning Your Own Outdoor Winter Engagement Photos?
If you’re considering outdoor winter engagement photos in Missoula or anywhere in Western Montana, here are a few quick tips:
- Dress in layers – Stay warm while still looking stylish. Wool coats, cozy sweaters, and stylish scarves photograph beautifully. And don’t forget to bring gloves to keep your hands warm! Hand and foot warmers work great too!
- Incorporate seasonal accessories – Think beanies, mittens, or even a plaid blanket for a bit of warmth and a nice, cozy touch.
- Embrace the elements – Snowfall or cloudy skies can add a unique and magical feel to your photos. Consider bringing along a tissue or handkerchief in case of runny nose or eyes from the dry/cold air.
- Consider bringing your pet along – If you have a dog (or another furry friend), including them can make your photos all the more special!
- Trust your photographer – The best photos come from natural interactions and genuine moments. Try not to worry too much before the shoot and let your photographer guide you through the session.
“Carin was amazing! We have never had professional pictures done before, and she made it so easy and laid back. She was kind, helpful, and willing to work with us on everything we asked of her. When we received our sneak peek, we were overwhelmed with gratitude and excitement for how great she made us look and feel both during the process and after! She is WONDERFUL!”
Quinci R, 2/16/25
Thinking about a photo shoot at Blue Mountain Trailhead in Missoula, MT? You might love this post about a spring engagement photo shoot at Blue Mountain Trailhead, where we captured the magic of golden hour and the breathtaking mountain views.
Wondering what to wear for your own engagement session? Check out my expert guide: What to Wear for Engagement Photos: A Complete Guide for Montana Couples, filled with tips to help you look and feel your best in front of the camera!
